Ingredients

For the meat sauce:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the lasagna:

• 9 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• Fresh basil for garnish

Time

Preperation: Approximately 30 minutes

Baking: Approximately 30-40 minutes

Steps

1. In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
6. Place three lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, overlapping slightly.
7. Spread a layer of ricotta cheese over the noodles, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Repeat the layers, starting with the meat sauce, then noodles, and cheeses, until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of meat sauce and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

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Lasagna with meat sauce is a hearty and flavorful dish, serve and enjoy!