Classic Beef Lasagna: Hearty Italian Dinner

Ah, the comforting embrace of a Classic Beef Lasagna brings memories of rustic Italian kitchens and the joy of gathering around the dinner table. This recipe has been cherished for generations, a true embodiment of Italian warmth on a plate. Layers of tender pasta, rich beef ragù, creamy béchamel sauce, and melted cheese unite in a symphony of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, salt, sugar, oregano, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese and egg until well combined.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Assemble the lasagna by layering: Spread a small amount of the meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place three lasagna noodles on top. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle with a portion of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a final layer of meat sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the lasagna before serving.

Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Yield: 8 servings

A classic Italian lasagna recipe featuring layers of pasta, rich beef sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese.

Nutrition information: Calories: 450 | Fat: 24g | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 28g

Ah, as you take that first bite of this Classic Beef Lasagna, the symphony of flavors dances on your palate. The velvety layers of pasta enrobed in the hearty beef ragù, complemented by the creamy ricotta and the perfect blend of cheeses, create an experience that transcends mere food. It’s a journey to the heart of Italy, a reminder of tradition, and a celebration of togetherness. So whether it’s a family dinner or a special occasion, this Classic Beef Lasagna is more than a dish – it’s a masterpiece of culinary artistry that brings people closer, one delicious forkful at a time.