Oven-Baked Beef Lasagna

I love making Oven-Baked Beef Lasagna when I want a classic, hearty meal that brings everyone to the table. This layered dish combines rich beef sauce, tender pasta sheets, creamy cheese filling, and melted mozzarella for a comforting dinner that always satisfies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate how the savory beef sauce simmers into a deep, flavorful base. I enjoy the creamy ricotta layer that balances the richness of the meat and tomato sauce. I also like that this dish can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights. Whenever I want a timeless comfort food recipe, this is one I gladly prepare.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

9 lasagna noodles
1 pound ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
1 egg
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. I cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, I heat olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until softened.

4. I add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

5. I stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.

6. I mix in the marinara sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. I let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes.

7. In a separate bowl, I combine ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the Parmesan cheese.

8. I spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.

9. I layer noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese. I repeat the layers, finishing with sauce and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

10. I cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

11. I let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and garnish with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

I usually get about 6 to 8 servings from this recipe.

Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Rest time: 15 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

I sometimes substitute ground Italian sausage for part of the beef for extra flavor. When I want added vegetables, I mix sautéed spinach or mushrooms into the sauce. If I prefer a richer cheese layer, I blend in a bit of cream cheese with the ricotta. I also enjoy sprinkling extra herbs on top before baking for more aroma.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. I reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm larger portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This lasagna freezes very well, so I often freeze portions for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I assemble the lasagna ahead of time?

I often assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Do I have to cook the noodles first?

If I use regular noodles, I cook them first. I can also use oven-ready noodles to save time.

How do I keep the lasagna from being watery?

I let the meat sauce simmer to thicken and allow the lasagna to rest before slicing.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

I substitute gluten-free lasagna noodles and make sure my sauce ingredients are gluten-free.

What can I serve with beef lasagna?

I enjoy serving it with garlic bread and a simple green salad.

Conclusion

I truly enjoy making Oven-Baked Beef Lasagna because it delivers comforting layers of flavor in every bite. The combination of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender pasta creates a dish that feels both satisfying and timeless. Whenever I want a dependable family favorite, this is one recipe I happily turn to.