Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe
A Rich, Comforting Favorite for Any Occasion
Hearty, flavorful, and irresistibly cheesy—this Classic Beef Lasagna is the perfect dish for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings. With layers of savory meat sauce, smooth béchamel, and melted mozzarella, this lasagna is a timeless comfort food that’s always a hit.
Prep & Cooking Time
Preparation: 30 minutes
Cooking: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
1 onion, finely chopped
Vegetable oil, as needed
3 garlic cloves, minced
700 g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 fresh tomatoes, chopped
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Ground sweet paprika, to taste
300 g tomato sauce
For the Béchamel Sauce:
50 g butter
60 g all-purpose flour
600 ml milk
Salt, to taste
Ground nutmeg, to taste
For Assembling the Lasagna:
200 g lasagne sheets
200 g grated hard mozzarella cheese
Instructions
1. Make the Meat Sauce:
In a large pan, heat a little oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.
Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until aromatic.
Add the ground meat and cook until fully browned.
Mix in the celery and tomatoes, then season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Pour in the tomato sauce and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
2. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth roux.
Gradually add the milk, stirring to prevent lumps.
Season with salt and nutmeg. Cook, stirring, until thick and creamy.
3. Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat oven to 180°C (355°F).
Spread a layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
Add a layer of lasagna sheets.
Spoon over more meat sauce, followed by a layer of béchamel and a sprinkle of cheese.
Repeat layers, finishing with béchamel and the remaining mozzarella on top.
4. Bake:
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Tips
Pair with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread.
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor and presentation.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Combine beef and pork for a deeper, richer flavor.
Let the lasagna sit after baking—this helps the layers hold together when sliced.
Nutritional Highlights
Protein: Ground meat adds hearty protein.
Vitamins: Celery and tomatoes contribute essential nutrients.
Calcium: Cheese and milk offer a healthy calcium boost.
Dietary Modifications
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and flour for béchamel.
Vegetarian: Swap meat with plant-based alternatives or extra vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in oven or microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Lasagna
Comforting: The ultimate feel-good meal.
Flavor-Packed: Deep, rich layers in every bite.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble in advance for an easy bake-and-serve option.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Beef Lasagna delivers a perfect blend of tradition and taste, making it a reliable choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. With every forkful of tender pasta, rich sauce, and creamy béchamel, you’ll understand why it remains a family favorite.
Bon appétit!