If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Easy Meat Lasagna Recipe is exactly what you need. Layers of perfectly cooked noodles, a rich blend of ground beef and Italian sausage simmered in savory marinara, creamy ricotta mixed with fragrant herbs, and plenty of melty mozzarella come together to create a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special occasion, this lasagna promises to deliver flavor, texture, and smiles all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward, classic ingredients is key to crafting this dish. Each component plays an important role, from the meaty base that packs hearty flavor to the cheeses that bring creamy richness and a golden, bubbly topping.
- 12 lasagna noodles: These form the sturdy yet tender layers that hold everything together beautifully.
- 1 pound ground beef: Adds a robust, savory foundation to the meat sauce.
- 1 pound Italian sausage: Brings extra seasoning and depth with its natural herbs and spices.
- 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz): The tangy tomato sauce keeps the dish moist and full of classic Italian flavor.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it balances the richness of the meat with smooth texture.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture for perfect layering and hold.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty note that elevates the overall taste.
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The star of the melty, bubbly cheese topping that everyone loves.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the ricotta mixture with authentic Italian aroma.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a subtle savory kick without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, bright pop of color to finish your masterpiece.
How to Make Easy Meat Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your lasagna layers won’t stick and that the bottom crisps up just right.
Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente—meaning tender but still firm to the bite. Drain them well to avoid excess moisture that could make the lasagna watery.
Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking the meat apart as it cooks to ensure even browning. Once cooked, drain any excess fat for a leaner sauce. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about five minutes to deepen the flavors and bring everything together.
Step 4: Mix the Ricotta Filling
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it gently until smooth—this mixture offers a creamy texture and a burst of herbal goodness that compliments the hearty meat sauce perfectly.
Step 5: Layer Your Lasagna
Spread a thin, even layer of the meat sauce along the bottom of your baking dish. Next, carefully layer three cooked noodles over the sauce. Then, spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by one-third of the meat sauce and one cup of shredded mozzarella. Repeat this process two more times, making sure you finish with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese on top for that irresistible golden crust.
Step 6: Bake and Melt
Cover the pan with foil and bake for 25 minutes to let all the layers heat through and meld together. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese on top bubbles and browns beautifully, signaling that it’s time to dig in.
Step 7: Let It Rest and Garnish
Allow your Easy Meat Lasagna Recipe to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the layers set so your slices come out perfect. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for an inviting, fresh touch.
How to Serve Easy Meat Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds a pop of green and a mild flavor contrast to the rich lasagna. You might also consider shaved Parmesan or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil to add an extra dimension of richness and shine.
Side Dishes
Serve this lasagna alongside a crisp green salad tossed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus add a bright, fresh element to balance the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or try layering the components in mason jars for a portable version. You could also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top for those who love a hint of heat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your lasagna cools, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to four days, making it perfect for easy weekday meals or leftovers to enjoy later.
Freezing
This Easy Meat Lasagna Recipe freezes beautifully. For best results, freeze it before baking by assembling in a freezer-safe dish, covering tightly, and freezing for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent the cheese from drying out, uncover in the last few minutes for a melty topping.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef and sausage with just one type of meat?
Absolutely! Using just ground beef or sausage works well, though combining the two gives the most flavorful and balanced meat sauce. Feel free to adapt based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Do I need to pre-cook the lasagna noodles?
Yes, cooking the noodles until al dente helps prevent them from becoming mushy once baked. It also ensures they layer smoothly within the dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can swap the meats with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat substitutes. Keep the rest of the ingredients the same for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
What cheese can I substitute for ricotta?
Cottage cheese is a common substitute for ricotta and works well when blended smooth. You could also try mascarpone for a creamier, richer texture, though it’s less traditional.
How long does this lasagna take to bake?
The total baking time is 40 minutes: 25 minutes covered and an additional 15 minutes uncovered to brown the cheese nicely. Make sure to let it rest about 10 minutes before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Meat Lasagna Recipe is a true winner whenever you want to bring a little joy to your dinner table with minimal fuss. The layering of flavors and textures feels special but tastes like it took hours to prepare. Don’t hesitate to gather your ingredients and make this comforting classic—it’s destined to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, just like it did in mine!
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Easy Meat Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Meat Lasagna is a classic Italian-American favorite that combines layers of tender lasagna noodles, rich meat sauce made from ground beef and Italian sausage, creamy ricotta cheese mixture, and gooey mozzarella cheese. Perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs and spices, this comforting dish is baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh parsley for a delicious family meal.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 lasagna noodles
Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)
Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cook Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain them well and set aside, being careful not to let them stick together.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to reduce greasiness. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
- Assemble Layers: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Arrange 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by 1/3 of the meat sauce, and then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layering process two more times, ending with a top layer of mozzarella cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the assembled lasagna with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the dish to heat through.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh parsley before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious, homemade meat lasagna!
Notes
- For easier serving, let the lasagna cool and set for at least 10 minutes after baking.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use no-boil lasagna noodles to save time, adjusting baking time as needed.
- Fresh herbs such as basil can be used in addition to parsley for garnish.
- Leftover lasagna stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheats nicely in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
