Best Lasagna Ever Meat Sauce

Name: Best Lasagna Ever Meat Sauce
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 lb Italian sausage; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce; 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste; 2 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 lasagna noodles; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes

Indulge in the rich and hearty flavors of the Best Lasagna Ever Meat Sauce, a comforting classic that will delight your family and friends.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-12-24T05:31:27.230Z

This lasagna recipe has been passed down through generations, each adding their own twist. It's a labor of love, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Layers of tender pasta and rich meat sauce blend perfectly for a comforting meal.
Homemade sauce packed with flavor that beats store-bought any day.
Cheesy goodness with a golden, bubbly topping that is simply irresistible.

      

The Perfect Meat Sauce

A robust meat sauce is the heart of any great lasagna. By combining ground beef and Italian sausage, you create a flavorful base that is both hearty and satisfying. Cooking the meats with onions and garlic enhances the overall aroma and taste, making your kitchen smell divine as it simmers. The addition of tomato sauce and paste, along with a medley of herbs, ensures a depth of flavor that is truly unparalleled.

Simmering the sauce for 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich, thick consistency that clings to the noodles. This step is crucial, as it not only develops flavor but also gives your lasagna a luxurious texture. You’ll find that this homemade sauce beats any store-bought version hands down, making it a must-try for your lasagna.

Layering for Success

When it comes to assembling your lasagna, the layering technique is key to achieving that perfect bite. Start with a layer of meat sauce at the bottom of your baking dish to prevent the noodles from sticking, followed by the lasagna noodles. This base layer is essential for a successful bake.

Next, alternate layers of ricotta cheese, which adds a creamy richness, and shredded mozzarella, known for its gooey, melty texture. As you build the layers, remember that the order matters; it ensures even distribution of flavors and ingredients throughout the dish. Don’t forget to finish with mozzarella on top for that irresistible bubbly crust!

Baking to Perfection

Baking the lasagna in a preheated oven allows the flavors to further develop and meld together. Covering the dish with foil during the initial phase of baking helps to retain moisture, preventing the cheese from browning too quickly. After 25 minutes, removing the foil lets the top layer of cheese become golden and bubbly, creating an inviting appearance that is hard to resist.

Once removed from the oven, letting the lasagna rest for 10 minutes is essential. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve. The anticipation will build as you wait, but the first bite of this cheesy, meaty delight will make it all worth it.

Ingredients

Meat Sauce

1 lb ground beef
1 lb Italian sausage
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
2 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Lasagna

12 lasagna noodles
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 egg
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start assembling your lasagna.

Instructions

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and sausage over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Let simmer for 30 minutes.

Cook the Lasagna Noodles

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

Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.

Assemble the Lasagna

In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of noodles, a layer of the ricotta mixture, and a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers and top with remaining meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy!

Pair with a fresh salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your lasagna is a breeze. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, cover with foil to retain moisture and heat at a low temperature to avoid drying it out.

For longer storage, consider freezing your lasagna. It can be frozen before baking, or after it’s been cooked and cooled. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Just remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking or reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your lasagna with a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the lasagna perfectly. A simple vinaigrette or classic Caesar dressing can add an extra layer of flavor to your meal.

Don’t forget about garlic bread! A warm, crusty garlic bread on the side is perfect for soaking up any extra meat sauce or cheesy goodness left on your plate. This combination will surely impress your family and friends, making your meal a memorable one.

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.

→ Can I freeze lasagna?

Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked lasagna for up to 3 months. Just cover it tightly with foil.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a blend of cream cheese and sour cream as a substitute.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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