Go Back

Bolognese Lasagna

A comforting Bolognese lasagna packed with layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, perfect for busy nights and family gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bolognese Sauce
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium carrot, grated
  • 2 cans 14 oz each crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for cooking
For the Lasagna
  • 9-12 noodles lasagna (you can use no-boil if you prefer)
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil (for garnish, optional) Recommended for garnish

Method
 

Cooking the Bolognese Sauce
  1. In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add in your diced onion and let that sizzle for a few minutes until it becomes translucent.
  3. Toss in the minced garlic and grated carrot, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Adding the Tomatoes
  1. Once the beef is browned, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing all those flavors to get to know each other.
Preparing the Ricotta Mixture
  1. While the sauce is simmering, whisk together the ricotta cheese, egg, and a sprinkle of salt in a medium bowl.
Layering and Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large baking dish, start layering: Begin with a bit of Bolognese sauce at the bottom, then add a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and another layer of Bolognese sauce. Repeat until ingredients are used up, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  4. Remove the foil and let it bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serving
  1. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
  2. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, then serve and enjoy!

Notes

Make ahead: This Bolognese lasagna can be prepared ahead of time. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Freezer friendly: Freeze tightly wrapped or in a freezer-safe dish.