Classic Ground Beef Lasagna: A Comforting Recipe

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Ground Beef Lasagna is a cherished recipe that brings the comforting essence of Italian-American cuisine right to your dining table. This hearty dish is layered with rich flavors, featuring a homemade beef tomato sauce, creamy cottage cheese, and gooey mozzarella. With its warm, bubbly finish, this classic ground beef lasagna is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, promising to delight everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Lasagna

This ground beef lasagna is sure to become a favorite for several reasons. First, it’s an easy beef lasagna recipe that doesn’t require boiling the noodles, making the preparation hassle-free. Second, the combination of flavors from the beef and cheese creates a mouthwatering experience. It’s also a great way to incorporate vegetables if desired, making it a wholesome meal. Plus, the leftovers are fantastic, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish for days. Enjoy it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal! You can also try it with cheesy garlic bread for an extra treat.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Lasagna

Gather these items:

3 medium onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
¼ cup olive oil
1 lb lean ground beef (ground sirloin preferred)
1 28-oz can whole tomatoes (preferably San Marzano), crushed by hand
1 14½-oz can tomato sauce
1 6-oz can tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried basil, crushed
1 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
About 1 teaspoon sugar
2 cups water
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lb box oven-ready lasagna noodles (no boiling required)
1 16-oz container whole milk small curd cottage cheese, drained
1 lb mozzarella, shredded
Grated parmesan cheese (good quality)

How to Make Ground Beef Lasagna Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot. Add the chopped onions with a pinch of salt and sauté until soft and starting to brown. Add the finely chopped garlic and cook until fragrant, about one minute.
Step 2: Add the lean ground beef to the pot and brown thoroughly, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until no longer pink.
Step 3: Stir in the dried basil and oregano to release their flavors. Then add the hand-crushed whole tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a lid and simmer gently for about 1½ hours, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
Step 5: Allow the sauce to cool, then refrigerate overnight for the best flavor development.
Step 6: Drain the whole milk small curd cottage cheese in a fine mesh sieve over the sink, stirring gently a few times over 1 to 2 hours until most liquid is removed.
Step 7: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC).
Step 8: In an 11 x 15-inch lasagna pan, ladle a thin layer of sauce to cover the bottom. Arrange 6 oven-ready noodles overlapping slightly over the sauce. Spread half of the drained cottage cheese over the noodles, then sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella. Spoon a generous layer of sauce over the cheese.
Step 9: Repeat with 6 more noodles, the remaining cottage cheese, and the remaining mozzarella, then add another generous spoonful of sauce.
Step 10: Place the last 6 noodles on top. Spoon sauce over the entire surface and down the edges so all noodles are covered. Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese.
Step 11: Cover the pan with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 15 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Step 12: Let the lasagna rest about 10 minutes before cutting and serving. Enjoy your comforting homemade meal!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef Lasagna

Keep these in mind:

Allow the sauce to cool overnight for more developed flavors.
Use high-quality ingredients, especially for the cheese.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Best Ways to Serve Ground Beef Lasagna

This layered beef pasta dish is fantastic on its own, but you can amp it up with sides. Serve it with a crisp green salad or creamy cucumber tea sandwiches. Pairing it with a glass of red wine can enhance the flavors, making for a delightful dining experience.

How to Store and Reheat Ground Beef Lasagna

To store your homemade ground beef lasagna, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-5 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350ºF (175ºC) until warmed through, or microwave for a quick meal. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Lasagna

What is ground beef lasagna?

Ground beef lasagna is a classic dish made with layers of lasagna noodles, a rich meat sauce made from ground beef, cheeses, and marinara sauce. It’s a comforting meal perfect for family gatherings.

Can I make ground beef lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare ground beef lasagna a day in advance. Simply assemble the layers, cover tightly, and refrigerate before baking. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.

How do I avoid common mistakes with ground beef lasagna?

To avoid soggy noodles, don’t over-sauce the layers. Ensuring you drain excess moisture from the cottage cheese will also help maintain the perfect texture. Follow the baking time closely to achieve a bubbly top.

Variations of Ground Beef Lasagna You Can Try

If you’re looking to switch things up, consider these variations:

For an Italian-style beef lasagna, add layers of roasted vegetables such as zucchini and spinach.
Try a ground beef lasagna with ricotta for a creamier texture.
For a lighter option, you can make ground beef lasagna with vegetables as the filling.