Classic Beef Lasagna with Melty Cheese Layers
Lasagna is one of those dinners that instantly makes a day feel better. It’s warm, hearty, and just a little nostalgic — like the kind of meal you’d hope is waiting for you after a long day. The best part (in my opinion)? That first slice where you can see all the layers: saucy beef, creamy ricotta, and stretchy mozzarella that pulls in the most satisfying way.
This is the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with the smell of garlic and simmering tomato sauce, the kind that makes everyone wander in and ask, “Is it ready yet?” It’s perfect for family dinners, cozy weekends, or anytime you want leftovers that somehow taste even better the next day.
Ingredients
For the meat sauce
1½ pounds ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon paprika
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
For the cheese layer
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 large egg
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For assembly
12 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Extra chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Make the meat sauce
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as you go.
Add the chopped onion and cook for about 2–3 minutes, until it softens. Stir in the garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds — just until it smells amazing.
Now season it up with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, basil, and paprika. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir in the tomato paste.
Let it simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce looks thicker and richer.
2. Mix the creamy cheese layer
In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. It should look like a cozy little cloud of cheese.
3. Preheat and prep your pan
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks when it’s time to serve.
4. Layer it all up
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish — this keeps the noodles from sticking and starts things off saucy.
Add a layer of noodles. Spoon on some ricotta mixture and spread it gently. Add more meat sauce, then sprinkle mozzarella over the top.
Repeat the layers until everything is used up, finishing with meat sauce and a generous layer of mozzarella on top. (That golden cheesy top is the reward.)
5. Bake until bubbly
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the top is bubbly and lightly golden. You’ll hear that little sizzle around the edges — that’s when you know it’s good.
6. Rest, slice, and serve
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. It’s hard to wait, but it helps the layers set so you get clean, beautiful pieces.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Presentation
For a picture-perfect lasagna moment, sprinkle chopped parsley right before serving for a pop of fresh green. If you want it extra cozy-looking, serve slices on warm plates with a spoonful of sauce drizzled on top and a little extra Parmesan at the table. And honestly? A simple side salad and garlic bread make it feel like a full-on comfort feast.
Nutritional Information:
⏰ Prep Time: 25 minutes
🍳 Cooking Time: 50 minutes
🕒 Total Time: 75 minutes
🔥 Calories: ~620 kcal per serving
🍽️ Servings: 8
Conclusion
This classic beef lasagna is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your rotation. It’s rich and saucy, layered with creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella, and it makes enough to feed a crowd — or give you the best leftovers for the next day. If you’ve been craving a warm, cheesy, “everything’s going to be okay” dinner… this is it. Try it soon, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a family favorite.