Classic American Lasagna

Step 1

Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Step 2

Add ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until no pink remains, ~6 minutes.

Step 3

Stir in diced onion and cook until softened, ~4 minutes.

Step 4

Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, ~60 seconds.

Step 5

Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Step 6

Simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.

Step 7

Boil salted water in a large pot and cook lasagna noodles until al dente, ~9 minutes.

Step 8

Drain noodles and lay flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.

Step 9

Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread 1 cup meat sauce over the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish.

Step 10

Layer 3–4 noodles over sauce, overlapping slightly, then spread 1/3 ricotta over noodles.

Step 11

Sprinkle 1/3 mozzarella over ricotta, then spoon 1/4 meat sauce over cheese.

Step 12

Repeat layers two more times, ending with a final layer of noodles.

Step 13

Spread remaining meat sauce over top noodles, then cover with mozzarella and parmesan.

Step 14

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake 15 minutes more.

Step 15

Cheese should be melted and bubbling at edges. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.