Description
This Easy Meat Lasagna recipe combines layers of tender pasta, savory ground beef and Italian sausage in marinara sauce, creamy ricotta cheese mixture, and melted mozzarella for a classic Italian comfort meal. Perfect for family dinners, this hearty lasagna is baked to perfection with rich flavors and a golden cheese topping.
Ingredients
Lasagna Components
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz)
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish well to prevent sticking.
- Cook Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Brown Meat and Simmer Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage until fully cooked. Drain excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce. Let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and evenly combined.
- Assemble Lasagna – Layer 1: Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce in a single layer.
- Assemble Lasagna – Layer 2 and Repeat: Spread one-third of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by one-third of the meat sauce and then 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil, and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes to set before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- For easier slicing, allow the lasagna to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking.
- You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Feel free to add chopped vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the meat sauce for extra nutrition.
- Use no-boil lasagna noodles to save time; adjust layering accordingly.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.
