Get ready to win hearts (and appetites!) at your dinner table with this Easy Meat Lasagna. This recipe brings together rich layers of hearty beef, flavorful Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and a perfectly seasoned tomato sauce—all sandwiched between tender pasta sheets. It’s a classic comfort food dish that’s surprisingly fuss-free, and ideal for busy weeknights, special gatherings, or prepping meals ahead of time. One taste and you’ll see why Easy Meat Lasagna has secured its place as a crowd-pleasing family favorite in my kitchen—and soon, yours too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part of this recipe is how everyday ingredients transform into something extraordinary. Each element plays a key role, building layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistible cheese pull you crave from great lasagna. Here’s what you’ll need—and why you’ll love them:
- Lasagna noodles (12): The sturdy foundation that holds all those delicious layers together; stick with the classic for the best bite.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Brings a hearty, savory depth and keeps the lasagna filling and satisfying.
- Italian sausage (1/2 pound, casings removed): Adds a burst of spiced flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Yellow onion (1 medium, diced): Gives a subtle sweetness and aromatic base to the sauce.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Brings that classic Italian warmth and irresistible aroma.
- Marinara or pasta sauce (1 jar, 24 ounces): Provides robust tomato flavor and keeps every bite saucy and rich.
- Tomato sauce (1 can, 15 ounces): Adds extra moisture and layers of tomato goodness.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Classic herbal note that brightens and balances the dish.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): A must for that traditional Italian profile.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Simple, essential seasoning to round everything out.
- Egg (1): Helps bind the creamy ricotta so it bakes up perfectly layered, not runny.
- Ricotta cheese (15 ounces): Super smooth and creamy, for that signature luscious layer.
- Mozzarella cheese (3 cups, shredded): Brings ooey-gooey melt and beautiful stretch in every forkful.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds a nutty, salty finish and helps brown the top beautifully.
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional): A sprinkle of green for a fresh pop and colorful presentation.
How to Make Easy Meat Lasagna
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it so none of those delicious layers stick and you get picture-perfect slices every time. This simple prep step sets you up for lasagna success!
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook those lasagna noodles according to the package directions. The key is soft noodles that are still just a bit firm since they’ll finish cooking in the oven. Once they’re ready, drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking together while you work on your filling.
Step 3: Make the Flavorful Sauce
Heat a large skillet over medium-high and cook the ground beef, Italian sausage, and diced onion together, breaking the meat apart until it’s browned and the onion is soft—about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain any extra fat, then toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute, just until fragrant. Pour in your marinara, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir it all up, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes so those flavors really mingle.
Step 4: Mix the Ricotta Layer
In a medium bowl, blend together the ricotta cheese and the egg until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The egg gives the cheese layer structure, ensuring it stays rich and fluffy rather than runny as it bakes. This quick step adds a dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth element to your Easy Meat Lasagna.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna
Now comes the fun part! Spread about a cup of the meat sauce across the bottom of your prepared dish. Layer four noodles over the sauce, then top with a third each of the ricotta mixture, shredded mozzarella, and the remaining meat sauce. Repeat this process two more times, building beautiful, hearty layers. Finish by topping with the last of the mozzarella and sprinkling Parmesan cheese over the top for that classic golden finish.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover your lasagna with foil to keep it moist and pop it in the oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes, letting the cheese get bubbly and golden. Patience is key—let the lasagna rest at least 10 to 15 minutes before slicing so every piece holds together perfectly. If you like, scatter fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness.
How to Serve Easy Meat Lasagna
Garnishes
Add the finishing touch to your Easy Meat Lasagna with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. If you want to go the extra mile, a light dusting of extra Parmesan gives each piece that little hit of salty umami. Sometimes, a few fresh basil leaves can also make your dish look and taste restaurant-worthy!
Side Dishes
This lasagna shines all on its own, but pairing it with sides turns dinner into a full-on Italian feast. Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette or a classic Caesar for some refreshing crunch. Garlic bread or warm focaccia is always a hit for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to make your Easy Meat Lasagna extra memorable? Try baking it in individual ramekins for personalized servings at a dinner party, or slice it into fun squares for a potluck platter. You can even use a touch of fresh herbs or a swirl of pesto on the plate for a modern, colorful look that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Meat Lasagna is truly a gift to your future self. Let the lasagna cool completely before covering tightly with foil or transferring slices to an airtight container. Kept in the fridge, it stays delicious for up to four days, making it perfect for grab-and-go lunches or stress-free weeknight dinners.
Freezing
This dish freezes like a dream! Whether you want to freeze the whole tray or individual pieces, make sure it’s wrapped well in foil and plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn. Store for up to three months. To thaw, transfer to the fridge overnight before reheating for that just-baked texture.
Reheating
The best way to reheat Easy Meat Lasagna is in the oven at 350°F, covered so it doesn’t dry out, for about 20–25 minutes or until hot all the way through. For a single slice, a minute or two in the microwave works fine, but a quick broil afterward will bring back that cheesy crust.
FAQs
Can I use oven-ready noodles instead of boiling regular ones?
Absolutely! Oven-ready noodles make prep even speedier. Just layer them dry, but ensure there’s enough sauce covering the noodles so they soften and cook through perfectly in the oven.
What’s the best way to avoid watery lasagna?
Make sure to drain any excess fat from the meat, and let the assembled lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This gives the layers time to set so you get neat, satisfying slices every time.
Can Easy Meat Lasagna be assembled in advance?
Yes! You can assemble it up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Is it possible to make this meat lasagna gluten-free?
Definitely. Swap in your favorite gluten-free lasagna noodles (just cook as directed), and double-check your sauces to make sure they’re gluten-free as well. The flavors and textures will still be delicious.
What cheeses can I substitute if I don’t have ricotta?
If you’re out of ricotta, cottage cheese works nicely and adds a slightly different creaminess. Or try a blend of mascarpone and mozzarella for an even richer cheese layer.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something comforting, shareable, and guaranteed to please, there’s nothing quite like Easy Meat Lasagna. Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, or stashing slices away for busy nights, this recipe delivers classic Italian-American flavors with minimal fuss. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!
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Easy Meat Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including resting time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Meat Lasagna recipe is a classic favorite that’s perfect for a comforting family dinner. Layers of lasagna noodles, a savory meat sauce, and three cheeses make this dish a crowd-pleaser. It’s freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead meals!
Ingredients
Lasagna Noodles:
- 12 lasagna noodles
Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese Mixture:
- 1 egg
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook noodles and prepare meat sauce: Cook lasagna noodles, then brown ground beef, Italian sausage, and onion in a skillet. Add garlic, sauces, and seasonings; simmer.
- Prepare cheese mixture: Combine ricotta cheese and egg in a bowl.
- Layer ingredients: Spread meat sauce in the baking dish, layer with noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and repeat. Top with Parmesan.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then bake uncovered for 20 minutes until bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Let lasagna rest before slicing. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- For make-ahead convenience, assemble the lasagna a day before baking and refrigerate.
- Leftover lasagna freezes well for future meals.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
