Classic Meat Lasagna Recipe: Savory Meat Sauce and Cheesy Ricotta

This meat lasagna recipe is cheesy and meaty and makes an impressive dinner. The golden brown, crispy cheese layer on top of the lasagna will be irresistible to anyone who sees it! So, if you are looking for the recipe for the best lasagna, this is it! With lots of repeat layers of gooey cheese, perfectly al dente pasta sheets, and a meaty tomato sauce, there is no doubt that this is one of the tastiest dishes. Trust me; it will quickly become a family favorite.

Having two teenage boys who played football after school meant they always needed carbs and protein to satisfy their hunger. The first words that would always come out of their mouths the minute they came home were that they were starving! Since our house was the closest to the school, they always brought their hungry friends over, which meant more mouths to feed. 

What better Ricotta vs. Bechamel Sauce for your meat lasagna

While some lasagna recipes call for bechamel sauce, others call for ricotta for the layer of creamy cheese. But both are entirely authentic and legitimate ways to make lasagna. Lasagna made with bechamel sauce comes from the northern Emilia-Romagna region. The lasagna made with ricotta cheese originates in the southern Campania region. Of course, you can never go wrong with either recipe, but I personally prefer my lasagna with ricotta cheese.  

Variations of This Lasagna Recipe 

Lasagna is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some variations to try:

1. Meatless lasagna: Instead of ground beef, try using vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, and roasted bell peppers, or add a layer of sautéed vegetables between the pasta sheets. You can also use a meat substitute such as crumbled tofu or tempeh for a protein boost.     

     Tip: To add extra flavor, try using a variety of vegetables and herbs, such as basil, oregano, and thyme.

2. Vegan lasagna: Substitute dairy-based ingredients with vegan alternatives such as tofu ricotta, cashew cheese, and cashew cream. For added texture, you can also add a layer of roasted vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, or mushroom 

     Tip: To make it creamier, blend cashews with nutritional yeast and water to create a vegan cheese sauce.

3. Keto lasagna: Substitute the sheets with thinly cut vegetables such as zucchini or eggplant, or use butternut squash instead. You can also use a low-carb tomato sauce and add a layer of spinach or kale for added nutrition.

     Tip: To make it more filling, add a layer of cooked ground beef or turkey

Serving Suggestions for Meat Lasagna

Lasagna is a hearty dish, and garlic bread is a classic and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with it. A warm, buttery, crispy garlic bread perfectly complements a slice of meaty lasagna.

However, if you want to balance out the richness of the lasagna with some lighter options, salads are a great way to go. A fresh, crunchy arugula salad with a tangy vinaigrette would be an excellent accompaniment to the rich and hearty lasagna. Another option could be a delicious apple kale salad with a sweet and tangy dressing, adding sweetness and a little crunch. These salads are packed with nutrients and vegetables, making them a great way to get extra veggies with your meal.

In the end, it all comes down to personal preference. Whether you want to stick with classic garlic bread or balance out the meal with some lighter salads, the choice is yours. Either way, you can’t go wrong with a big, comforting slice of homemade lasagna.