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 lb ground beef; 1 lb ground pork; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cans (14 oz each) crushed tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; Salt to taste; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 12 lasagna noodles; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Taste Adventures

Discover the rich flavors of the Best Lasagna Ever Meat Sauce that will impress your family and friends.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-24T00:18:28.326Z

This lasagna is a family favorite, packed with layers of rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and cheesy goodness. Perfect for gatherings!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Layers of succulent meat sauce and creamy cheese
Hearty and satisfying for any occasion
Perfect for leftovers that taste even better the next day

      

The Heart of Italian Cuisine

Lasagna is a quintessential dish in Italian cuisine that has won hearts all over the world. Its origins trace back to Ancient Greece, but it was in Italy where it found its true identity. The layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy béchamel come together to create a comforting meal that's perfect for sharing. This Best Lasagna Ever Meat Sauce recipe elevates the classic dish with a hearty meat sauce making it the ideal centerpiece for family gatherings or special occasions.

What sets this lasagna apart is the combination of ground beef and pork, which provides a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. The slow-simmered sauce melds beautifully with the creamy béchamel, creating a dish that truly embodies the essence of Italian comfort food. Whether you're a lasagna aficionado or trying it for the first time, this recipe promises to deliver a taste sensation that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Lasagna

To achieve the best results, start with high-quality ingredients. Fresh herbs, ripe tomatoes, and good cheese can significantly elevate the flavor of your lasagna. When making the meat sauce, allow it to simmer longer if possible; this will deepen the flavors and enhance the overall taste of the dish. Additionally, don't rush the béchamel sauce; whisking it slowly will ensure a smooth and creamy consistency that will coat the noodles perfectly.

Layering is key when assembling your lasagna. Be sure to spread each layer evenly, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully as it bakes. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the layers for added texture and nutrition. Remember, lasagna is very forgiving, so feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

One of the best things about lasagna is that it tastes even better the next day! After cooking, allow your lasagna to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeks ahead. If you want to freeze your lasagna, it’s best to do so before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can be stored for up to three months.

When reheating, simply place your leftover lasagna in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, you may need to extend the cooking time. Cover it with foil to prevent the top from burning while the inside warms up. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a delightful meal that feels like a treat any day of the week.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother experience.

For the Meat Sauce

1 lb ground beef
1 lb ground pork
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (14 oz each) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Béchamel Sauce

4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1/4 tsp nutmeg
Salt to taste
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Assembling

12 lasagna noodles
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps closely for a delicious lasagna.

Prepare the Meat Sauce

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

Make the Béchamel Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, whisking until smooth.

Cook until thickened, then stir in nutmeg, salt, and Parmesan cheese.

Cook the Lasagna Noodles

Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Assemble the Lasagna

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

Bake the Lasagna

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Allow the lasagna to rest before slicing for cleaner pieces.

The Importance of Layering

Layering is an art in lasagna-making. Start with a base of meat sauce to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom. Follow this with béchamel, noodles, and cheese. Repeat this process, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients in each layer. This not only contributes to the texture but also enhances the flavor profile, allowing each bite to offer a perfect balance of meat, cheese, and sauce.

Don’t forget to finish with a generous layer of béchamel and mozzarella on top. This creates a beautiful golden crust that adds a delightful crunch to the soft layers beneath. The visual appeal of a well-layered lasagna is as important as its taste, making your dish a feast for the eyes as well.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement the rich flavors of the Best Lasagna Ever Meat Sauce, serve it with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing balances the richness of the cheese and sauce beautifully. A side of garlic bread or ciabatta can also enhance the dining experience, giving you something to soak up the delicious sauce.

For beverage pairings, a medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, works wonders with lasagna. The tannins in the wine help to cut through the richness of the meat and cheese, creating a harmonious dining experience. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with lemon or a robust iced tea can also be delightful companions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

→ Can I freeze lasagna?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly and freeze before baking. Just add extra baking time when cooking from frozen.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.