Classic and Simple Beef Lasagna

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Classic and Simple Beef Lasagna

This Classic and Simple Beef Lasagna is a timeless favorite packed with layers of flavorful beef sauce, creamy cheese, and tender pasta. Made with simple pantry staples, this recipe is easy to prepare, family-friendly, and tastes better than takeout or any frozen version.

Why This Recipe Works

  • No wine needed—uses beef broth for full-bodied flavor
  • Layers of homemade meat sauce, creamy cheese blend, and perfectly cooked noodles
  • Makes a hearty dinner and great leftovers for the next day
  • Comforting, satisfying, and perfect for both casual meals and special occasions

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

  • 1 lb ground beef (15–20% fat)
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup beef broth
  • 3 cups (24 oz) marinara sauce
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

For the Cheese Mixture:

  • 16 oz low-fat cottage cheese
  • 15 oz reduced-fat ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley (plus more for garnish)
  • 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

For the Pasta:

  • 9 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente in salted water

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Meat Sauce

  1. In a large deep pan over medium-high heat, heat olive oil.
  2. Add ground beef and diced onion. Sauté for 5 minutes, breaking up the meat, until browned and no longer pink.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add beef broth and cook for 2 minutes, letting the liquid reduce slightly.
  5. Stir in marinara sauce, salt, pepper, thyme, sugar, and parsley. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

  1. In a large bowl, mix together cottage cheese, ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, the egg, and parsley until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread 1/2 cup of the meat sauce in the bottom of a deep 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  3. Layer 3 noodles over the sauce. Spread 1/3 of the remaining meat sauce over the noodles, then sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella.
  4. Spread half of the cheese mixture evenly on top.
  5. Repeat with another layer of noodles, 1/3 of the meat sauce, 1 cup of mozzarella, and the rest of the cheese mixture.
  6. Add the final 3 noodles, remaining meat sauce, and top with the last 1 cup of mozzarella.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Insert toothpicks across the top (to prevent the foil from sticking to the cheese).
  2. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
  3. Remove the foil and broil for 3–5 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the lasagna rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing to help the layers set. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-ahead: Assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  • Store leftovers: Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
  1. This lasagna is the perfect dish to serve when you want something hearty and comforting without the need for fancy ingredients. It’s wholesome, filling, and always a crowd-pleaser.

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