Authentic Beef Lasagna

Ingredients

• 12 lasagna noodles (no-boil or traditional)
• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 90/10)
• 1 jar (24 oz) high-quality marinara sauce
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with minced garlic over medium heat. Drain excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, half of the parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth.
4. Assemble the layers: spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish. Layer 3-4 noodles, followed by a layer of ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella. Repeat for 3 layers.
5. Top the final layer of noodles with the remaining meat sauce, mozzarella, and parmesan. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling. Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

The Story & Tips

A truly great lasagna is a labor of love, but it doesn't have to be a source of stress. This 'Like A Breeze' version focuses on structure and balance—ensuring each layer is distinct and the sauce-to-cheese ratio is perfectly calibrated. The result is a lasagna that holds its shape when sliced, delivering that iconic multi-layered look that makes this dish so impressive.

The secret to the clean slice is two-fold: the egg in the ricotta mixture and the mandatory rest time after baking. The egg acts as a binder, setting the cheese layers so they don't run, while the 15-minute rest allows the pasta to absorb the remaining moisture and the structure to firm up. It’s the difference between a messy pile of pasta and a professional-looking serving.

This is the ultimate make-ahead meal. You can assemble the entire lasagna a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. It also freezes exceptionally well, making it a reliable staple for busy families. It’s a rich, savory, and deeply satisfying dinner that brings everyone to the table with a smile.

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Medium mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil

Substitutions

• ground beef: Use ground turkey or a mix of beef and Italian sausage for extra flavor.
• ricotta cheese: Substitute with cottage cheese for a lighter, tangier filling.
• lasagna noodles: Use gluten-free lasagna sheets if preferred.

Serving suggestions

• Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil over the top before serving.
• Pair with a glass of bold red wine for a classic Italian experience.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This lasagna also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months—either as a whole dish or in individual portions.