Ultimate Cheesy Beef Lasagna: A Comfort Food Classic

Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, and this Cheesy Beef Lasagna is packed with rich, meaty flavors, layers of gooey cheese, and a golden, bubbly top. Inspired by the delicious lasagna in the image, this recipe takes the classic dish to the next level with a creamy layer, perfectly seasoned beef, and plenty of melted cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Beef Lasagna

• Irresistible Layers – A perfect balance of beef, veggies, and creamy cheese in every bite.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and a step-by-step guide for a foolproof lasagna.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will be a hit.

Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Lasagna

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for flavor)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Cheese Mixture:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Other Ingredients:

• 9 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sour cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Meat Sauce

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
2. Add diced onions, green bell peppers, red bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, egg, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.

Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

1. Boil a large pot of water with a pinch of salt.
2. Cook the lasagna noodles until just al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce.
3. Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
4. Spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture, followed by a layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous topping of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and dollops of sour cream.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
3. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Beef Lasagna

✔ Use Fresh Ingredients – Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
✔ Let It Rest – Allowing the lasagna to cool before cutting helps the layers set.
✔ Make Ahead – Assemble the lasagna a day in advance and bake when ready.

What to Serve with Cheesy Beef Lasagna

• Garlic Bread – Crispy, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly.
• Caesar Salad – A fresh and crunchy salad balances the richness.
• Roasted Vegetables – A side of roasted zucchini or carrots adds a nutritious touch.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave for a quick meal.

This Cheesy Beef Lasagna is a rich, hearty, and comforting dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, every bite is packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and savory beef flavors. Try this recipe today and enjoy a homemade classic that’s better than any restaurant version!