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american beauty lasagna recipe
Mary Johnson

American Beauty Lasagna Recipe

A classic Italian-American comfort dish made with layers of tender lasagna noodles, rich homemade meat sauce, creamy ricotta filling, and melted mozzarella cheese. This hearty lasagna is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, and make-ahead meals.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Meat Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Cheese Filling
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • For the Lasagna Layers
  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • Water for boiling
  • Extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for topping

Equipment

  • Large cooking pot
  • Large skillet or saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Colander
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Aluminum foil
  • Cheese grater

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until softened. Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
    american beauty lasagna recipe
  2. Cook the Meat: Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20–25 minutes.
  3. Cook the Noodles: Boil lasagna noodles in salted water according to package instructions until slightly firm. Drain and set aside.
  4. Make the Cheese Mixture: Combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
  5. Assemble the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the baking dish. Add noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers until ingredients are finished. Top with extra cheese.
  6. Bake the Lasagna: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  7. Rest and Serve: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

Video

Notes

  • Letting the lasagna rest after baking helps the layers stay together when sliced.
  • You can prepare the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking.
  • For extra flavor, add fresh basil or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • The lasagna can be frozen for up to 3 months when properly wrapped
Nutrition Information (per serving, estimated):
Calories: 520 kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 32g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Sodium: 980mg | Potassium: 620mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 850IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 380mg | Iron: 3.5mg