When I think of comfort food, my mind drifts right back to those slow Sunday afternoons in Mama Lu’s kitchen, where the smell of something hearty and warm would curl through the air like a familiar hug. This ground beef lasagna recipe is one of those dishes that carries with it that same kind of homey warmth — a dish that isn’t just about filling bellies but about gathering everyone around the table, sharing stories, and making memories. Growing up in a white farmhouse nestled deep in the Blue Ridge Mountains, I learned early on that food was more than just ingredients; it was about love, family, and tradition. This recipe honors that spirit, combining simple, honest ingredients into a meal that feels like a cozy quilt wrapped around your soul.

Why You’ll Love This ground beef lasagna recipe

There’s something timeless about lasagna. It’s the kind of dish that makes you slow down, sit a little longer, and savor every bite. What I love most about this ground beef lasagna recipe isn’t just the layers of rich meat sauce and creamy cheese — it’s how it invites you to step into a tradition, much like the ones Mama Lu passed down to me, where cooking is an act of care. It’s straightforward, approachable, and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Unlike some recipes that demand a laundry list of ingredients or fancy techniques, this lasagna stays true to the humble roots of my upbringing. It uses pantry staples and fresh ingredients you can find at any market, and it’s forgiving enough for even the most scatterbrained cooks. Plus, with ground beef simmered to tender perfection, layered with a tomato sauce that’s simmered low and slow, and plenty of melty cheese, this lasagna is the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out — just like Mama Lu’s skillet cornbread did on chilly mountain nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This ground beef lasagna recipe

Ingredients for The Ultimate Ground Beef Lasagna Recipe That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

1 pound ground beef (grass-fed if you can find it, to bring a richer flavor)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
9 no-boil lasagna noodles
15 ounces ricotta cheese (substitute with cottage cheese if you prefer a lighter texture)
1 large egg
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Olive oil for sautéing

In my kitchen, I often skip measuring to the exact teaspoon — Mama Lu taught me to trust my senses. But for those just starting out, these quantities should give you a perfect balance of flavors. If you’re looking to make this vegetarian, swapping the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or lentils works beautifully, too. It’s all about remembering the heart behind the recipe.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 32g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 7g (from tomatoes and dairy)
Sodium: 650mg

These numbers are based on a reasonable serving size that fills your plate without overwhelming it — a lesson Mama Lu taught me well, balancing plenty with nourishment. Of course, these values shift if you swap ingredients or adjust portion sizes, but overall, this lasagna offers a hearty dose of protein and comforting carbs that fuel both body and soul.

The Ultimate Ground Beef Lasagna Recipe That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

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Learn how to make delicious ground beef lasagna recipe. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.

Author: Jenny
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Cooking
Cuisine: International

Ingredients

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1 pound ground beef (grass-fed if you can find it, to bring a richer flavor)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
9 no-boil lasagna noodles
15 ounces ricotta cheese (substitute with cottage cheese if you prefer a lighter texture)
1 large egg
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Olive oil for sautéing

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm a splash of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with your spoon and cook until browned, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary — Mama Lu always said, “Too much grease makes a stew heavy, not hearty.”
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook, uncovered, for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and deepen in flavor.
While the sauce simmers, in a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the egg. Mix until smooth and creamy. This mixture adds a touch of richness and helps bind the layers.
To assemble, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Lay three lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping slightly.
Spread about one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by one-third of the mozzarella cheese. Then, top with another layer of meat sauce.
Repeat the layering two more times: noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and meat sauce. Finish with a final sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set up and makes serving a breeze. I always remember sitting on the porch swing waiting for Mama Lu’s pot roast to rest — patience truly is part of the recipe.

Steps to Create Your ground beef lasagna recipe

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it warms, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm a splash of olive oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with your spoon and cook until browned, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary — Mama Lu always said, “Too much grease makes a stew heavy, not hearty.”
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook, uncovered, for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and deepen in flavor.
While the sauce simmers, in a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the egg. Mix until smooth and creamy. This mixture adds a touch of richness and helps bind the layers.
To assemble, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Lay three lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping slightly.
Spread about one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by one-third of the mozzarella cheese. Then, top with another layer of meat sauce.
Repeat the layering two more times: noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella, and meat sauce. Finish with a final sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set up and makes serving a breeze. I always remember sitting on the porch swing waiting for Mama Lu’s pot roast to rest — patience truly is part of the recipe.

Tips for Making the Best ground beef lasagna recipe

My years in Mama Lu’s kitchen taught me that the best dishes aren’t just about following steps — they’re about intuition and care. Here are a few tips that I’ve learned along the way to help your lasagna reach its full potential: Learn more: Ultimate Ground Beef Korean Bowl Recipe for Flavor-Packed Meals

Don’t rush the sauce: Letting the meat sauce simmer gently allows the flavors to meld and deepen. It’s worth the extra time.
Use no-boil noodles: They save a step and absorb the sauce beautifully. If you only have traditional noodles, be sure to boil them until just al dente.
Season as you go: Taste your sauce before layering. A pinch of salt or dash of pepper can make all the difference.
Let it rest: This is crucial for clean slices. Cutting too soon and your layers will slide apart, which is a heartbreak no one wants.
Fresh herbs add brightness: If you have access to fresh basil or parsley, sprinkle some inside the layers or on top before serving.
Cheese matters: Opt for whole-milk ricotta and fresh mozzarella if possible — it’s the difference between good and unforgettable.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Final dish - The Ultimate Ground Beef Lasagna Recipe That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

When I serve this ground beef lasagna recipe, I like to keep sides simple and soulful, just like Mama Lu’s approach to meals. A crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, and some crusty bread — ideally warmed on the stove or fresh from the oven — rounds out the plate beautifully.

If you’re feeling nostalgic, a side of sautéed green beans with a little garlic and lemon zest brings that mountain garden freshness right to your table. And for drinks, a glass of robust red wine or even a cold glass of sweet tea works wonders. Remember, the best accompaniments enhance the experience without stealing the spotlight from your star dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the many blessings of lasagna is how well it holds up for leftovers. After our big family dinners in the Blue Ridge farmhouse, Mama Lu would always pack up the extras, knowing the next day’s meal would be just as comforting.

To store: Cool the lasagna completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To freeze: Portion into airtight containers or wrap the whole dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat: For refrigerated lasagna, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. For frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first, then reheat as above.
Microwave reheating: Works in a pinch — cover the portion loosely and heat in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring gently between, until warmed through.

Leftover lasagna often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to marry. Just like the stories Mama Lu told us on the porch, some things deepen with time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for ground beef lasagna recipe?

The main ingredients for ground beef lasagna recipe include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make ground beef lasagna recipe?

The total time to make ground beef lasagna recipe includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make ground beef lasagna recipe ahead of time?

Yes, ground beef lasagna recipe can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with ground beef lasagna recipe?

ground beef lasagna recipe pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is ground beef lasagna recipe suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, ground beef lasagna recipe may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

Cooking this ground beef lasagna recipe is like stepping into a little piece of my childhood — a chance to slow down, connect with the simple joys of the kitchen, and savor a meal made with care. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a reminder that food carries stories and love across generations.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, gathering friends for a cozy night, or simply craving a dish that feels like a warm embrace, this lasagna will stand up to the task. As Mama Lu used to say, “Food isn’t just what fills your belly, it’s what fills your heart.” And this recipe is just that — a hearty, soulful meal that speaks the language of home.