Name: Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 9 lasagna noodles; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

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What I love most about this casserole is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your family’s preferences, whether that means adding extra vegetables or swapping out the cheese. It’s a dish that invites creativity while still delivering that classic lasagna flavor we all adore. So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe and create a meal that will warm your heart and fill your home with love.

What is Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole?

The Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole is a delightful fusion of traditional Italian flavors and modern convenience. This dish takes the essence of classic lasagna—layered pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheeses—and transforms it into a simpler, one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy families. The origins of lasagna can be traced back to ancient Greece, where they layered pasta with various fillings. Over centuries, this evolved into the Italian lasagna we cherish today, with countless regional variations.

What makes the Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole so appealing is its adaptability. It’s a dish that invites creativity, allowing you to incorporate seasonal vegetables or swap out proteins based on your family’s preferences. The combination of ground beef, ricotta, and mozzarella creates a comforting, hearty meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. This casserole is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings people together around the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole

Hearty and satisfying comfort food for the whole family.
Easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile recipe that allows for ingredient substitutions.
Packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a balanced meal.

Who It’s For

This recipe is ideal for busy families looking for a quick yet delicious dinner option. It’s also perfect for health-conscious cooks who want to create a balanced meal without sacrificing flavor. Food lovers will appreciate the rich, layered tastes that make this casserole a standout dish.

When to Cook It

The Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence. It’s also a fantastic choice for family gatherings, celebrations, or potlucks, where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish is sure to become a staple in your home, bringing warmth and joy to every meal.

1 pound ground beef: The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and protein. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
9 lasagna noodles: These form the layers of your casserole. Use gluten-free noodles if needed.
2 cups ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and richness. Cottage cheese can be used as a lower-fat alternative.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, melty texture. Feel free to mix in provolone or cheddar for a different flavor.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste. Pecorino Romano is a great substitute.
2 cups marinara sauce: The sauce ties everything together. You can use store-bought or homemade for a fresher taste.
1 egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture. If you prefer a vegan option, use a flaxseed egg instead.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds depth. You can create your own mix with oregano, basil, and thyme.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing flavors. Adjust according to your preference.

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
Cook the ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
Prepare the ricotta mixture: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Layer the marinara sauce: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking.
Build your layers: Place 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, then add half of the ricotta mixture, half of the cooked ground beef, and a third of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layering process.
Finish with noodles: Top with the final layer of noodles, spread the remaining marinara sauce over them, and sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Cover and bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Cool before serving: Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes to set before slicing and serving. This helps the layers hold together better.

Stevia: A natural sweetener that has no calories and won’t spike blood sugar levels.
Monk fruit: Another zero-calorie sweetener that is safe for diabetics and has a pleasant taste.
Allulose: A low-calorie sugar that mimics the taste and texture of sugar without affecting blood glucose.
Note: Avoid using honey or maple syrup as substitutes, as they can raise blood sugar levels significantly.

Large skillet
Baking dish (9×13 inches recommended)
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula
Aluminum foil
Oven mitts
Knife and cutting board

Use Fresh Ingredients: Chef Giada De Laurentiis emphasizes the importance of using fresh herbs and high-quality cheeses to elevate the flavor of your Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Renowned chef Lidia Bastianich suggests cooking the lasagna noodles just until al dente. They will continue to cook in the oven, preventing a mushy texture.
Layer Wisely: Chef Mario Batali recommends alternating the layers of meat and cheese to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. This technique creates a balanced dish.
Let It Rest: Chef Ina Garten advises allowing the casserole to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Experiment with Flavors: Chef Rachael Ray encourages home cooks to add a splash of red wine to the meat sauce for an extra depth of flavor. It’s a simple way to enhance the overall taste.

Refrigerator: Store leftover Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to label it with the date.
Thawing: To reheat from frozen, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the casserole with foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to crisp the cheese.
Microwave: For quick reheating, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking for warmth.

Overcooking the Noodles: Cooking lasagna noodles too long can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for al dente, as they will soften further while baking.
Skipping the Resting Time: Cutting into the casserole immediately after baking can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes to set the layers.
Not Draining the Ground Beef: Failing to drain excess fat from the cooked beef can make the casserole greasy. Always drain to keep the dish balanced and flavorful.
Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap cheeses or sauces can compromise the flavor. Invest in good-quality ingredients for a richer, more satisfying dish.
Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper to enhance the overall taste of your casserole.

Q: Can I make Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Is Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container.

Q: Can I substitute the ground beef in the Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole?
It depends. You can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.

Q: Is Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole gluten-free?
No, traditional lasagna noodles contain gluten. However, you can use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Q: Can I add vegetables to the Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole?
Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini is a great way to enhance the nutrition and flavor of the casserole.

The Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a heartwarming dish that brings families together and fills your home with delightful aromas. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do, and that it becomes a cherished part of your family gatherings. If you try it out, please share your thoughts in the comments below or share this recipe with fellow food lovers. Happy cooking!

Ciao! I'm Giordana, your gluten-free guide from Italy. I turn comfort food classics into drool-worthy, gluten-free magic — because life's too short for cardboard cookies. Let's eat amazing food and forget gluten was ever a thing! LEARN MORE ABOUT GIORDANA →

Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole Recipe

What is Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole?

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Lasagna Casserole

Who It’s For

When to Cook It