Best Lasagna Ever Meat Sauce

Name: Best Lasagna Ever Meat Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 pound ground pork; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 tablespoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 lasagna noodles; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Hearth Meals | Soul-Warming

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Best Lasagna Ever Meat Sauce recipe! This lasagna is layered with rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, making it a true family favorite.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-23T23:02:28.225Z

This lasagna has been a family recipe for generations, bringing everyone together around the dinner table. The rich meat sauce, combined with layers of cheese and pasta, creates a dish that's perfect for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty meat sauce bursting with flavor
Creamy layers of cheese that melt beautifully
A comforting dish that's perfect for gatherings

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

Lasagna has long been a staple of comfort food, and our Best Lasagna Ever Meat Sauce recipe takes it to an entirely new level. With its hearty layers and rich flavors, this dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings family and friends together. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this lasagna will satisfy cravings and warm hearts.

Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, from the savory meat sauce to the creamy ricotta filling. This dish is a wonderful way to showcase seasonal ingredients, making it both versatile and delicious no matter the time of year.

Layering for Success

Layering is key to a successful lasagna. Start with a generous layer of meat sauce at the bottom of your baking dish to prevent the noodles from sticking. Each layer adds its own unique flavor, so don’t be afraid to be generous with your ingredients. The combination of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and robust meat sauce will create a symphony of taste in every bite.

Don’t forget to sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese between the layers for added depth. This simple addition enhances the overall flavor profile and contributes to the delightful crust that forms on top during baking.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving lasagna, a simple side salad can elevate the meal. A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagna perfectly. You can also serve it with garlic bread or a crusty loaf for dipping into the delicious meat sauce.

For an even more festive occasion, pair your lasagna with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot. The robust flavors of these wines harmonize beautifully with the richness of the meat sauce, enhancing your dining experience.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce

1 pound ground beef
1 pound ground pork
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lasagna

12 lasagna noodles
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 egg
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil for garnish

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and pork over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes.

Cook the Noodles

While the sauce simmers, cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, then layer noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella. Repeat the layers, finishing with meat sauce and mozzarella on top.

Bake

Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in for a treat! Lasagna tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. Allow the dish to cool before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven until heated through. This makes for a quick and easy meal on busy days.

Variations to Try

While the traditional meat sauce is a classic, feel free to experiment with your lasagna. Try adding sautéed vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the ricotta mixture for a delicious vegetarian twist. Alternatively, swap out the meats for turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Herbs and spices can also be customized to suit your palate. Add red pepper flakes for a kick or a handful of fresh basil for a burst of freshness. The beauty of lasagna lies in its versatility, allowing you to tailor the dish to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or cream cheese as an alternative to ricotta.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This lasagna freezes well. Just make sure to wrap it tightly before freezing.

→ How do I store leftover lasagna?

Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.