Baked Pasta

Classic Lasagna Bolognese

Name: Classic Lasagna Bolognese
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef; 1 lb (450g) ground pork; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups (475ml) red wine; 2 cups (475ml) beef broth; 1 can (28 oz/794g) crushed tomatoes; 1 tsp (5g) dried basil; 1 tsp (5g) dried oregano; 1/2 tsp (2g) salt; 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper; 12 lasagna noodles; 2 cups (220g) grated mozzarella cheese; 1 cup (115g) grated Parmesan cheese

By Lucia Marchetti · June 18, 2026 · Baked Pasta

Prep30 min

Cook45 min

Total75 min

Serves6

Classic Lasagna Bolognese — Rich, Meaty Bolognese

I still remember the first time I made lasagna for my family. I was a teenager, and my mom had given me her old recipe book with a note that said, 'Time to learn how to make the classics.' The recipe I chose was Classic Lasagna Bolognese, a dish that has been a staple in Italian-American cuisine for generations. The combination of tender lasagna noodles, rich bolognese sauce, and creamy mozzarella cheese is a match made in heaven.

As I delved deeper into the world of Italian cooking, I began to appreciate the beauty of a well-made bolognese sauce. It's a sauce that's made with love and patience, simmered for hours to develop a deep, rich flavor that's just perfect for coating tender lasagna noodles. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make, even for a beginner.

So, if you're looking for a comforting, satisfying pasta dish that's sure to become a family favorite, look no further than Classic Lasagna Bolognese. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even a casual gathering with friends. And the best part? It's made with ingredients that are easily accessible and affordable, so you can make it again and again without breaking the bank.

As you cook your way through this recipe, you'll notice that it's all about the layers. You've got your tender lasagna noodles, your rich bolognese sauce, and your creamy mozzarella cheese, all working together in perfect harmony. And the key to making it all work is to take your time, to let each component shine, and to never rush the process.

So, let's get started, shall we? With this recipe, you'll be making a delicious, comforting Italian-American pasta dinner that's sure to become a staple in your household. And who knows, you might just find yourself falling in love with the art of Italian cooking, just like I did.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make, even for a beginner, and requires minimal special equipment.
The bolognese sauce can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use, making it a great option for meal prep.
The lasagna is a crowd-pleaser, and can be easily scaled up or down to feed a large or small group.
The recipe is budget-friendly, and can be made with ingredients that are easily accessible and affordable.
The dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even a casual gathering with friends.
The recipe is highly customizable, and can be adapted to suit a variety of tastes and dietary preferences.
The lasagna is a comforting, satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favorite.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great lasagna is in the layers, and this recipe is no exception. By using a combination of tender lasagna noodles, rich bolognese sauce, and creamy mozzarella cheese, we create a dish that's both comforting and satisfying. And the best part? Each component is easy to make, even for a beginner.

The bolognese sauce, for example, is made by simmering ground beef, pork, and tomatoes together for hours, which develops a deep, rich flavor that's just perfect for coating tender lasagna noodles. And by using a combination of ground meats, we add a level of complexity to the sauce that's hard to beat.

But what really makes this recipe work is the way the components come together. By layering the lasagna noodles, bolognese sauce, and mozzarella cheese in a specific order, we create a dish that's both visually appealing and delicious. And by using a combination of melted mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, we add a level of creaminess and depth to the dish that's just perfect.

And let's not forget about the importance of resting time. By letting the lasagna rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving, we allow the flavors to meld together and the cheese to set, which makes all the difference in the world.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making a great lasagna, the ingredients are everything. You'll want to use high-quality ground meats, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella cheese to create a dish that's both delicious and authentic. And don't forget about the importance of using the right type of pasta - in this case, tender lasagna noodles that will hold up beautifully to the rich bolognese sauce and melted cheese.

As you shop for the ingredients, be sure to look for the best quality you can find. Choose ground meats that are fresh and have a good balance of fat and lean meat, and opt for San Marzano tomatoes for the best flavor. And when it comes to the cheese, don't skimp on the quality - a good mozzarella and Parmesan will make all the difference in the world.

1 lb (450g) ground beefLook for ground beef that is 80/20 or 85/15, as this will provide the best balance of flavor and texture.
1 lb (450g) ground porkGround pork adds a level of complexity and richness to the bolognese sauce that's hard to beat.
1 large onion, finely choppedMake sure to chop the onion finely, as this will help it cook evenly and add a depth of flavor to the sauce.
3 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a key component of the bolognese sauce, and adds a level of complexity and richness that's essential to the dish.
2 cups (475ml) red wineRed wine adds a level of depth and complexity to the sauce that's hard to beat, and helps to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
2 cups (475ml) beef brothBeef broth adds moisture and flavor to the sauce, and helps to create a rich and creamy texture.
1 can (28 oz/794g) crushed tomatoesSan Marzano tomatoes are the best choice for this recipe, as they have a naturally sweet flavor and low acidity.
1 tsp (5g) dried basilDried basil adds a level of complexity and depth to the sauce that's hard to beat, and pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
1 tsp (5g) dried oreganoDried oregano adds a level of warmth and depth to the sauce that's essential to the dish.
1/2 tsp (2g) saltSalt is essential for bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients, and helps to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
1/4 tsp (1g) black pepperBlack pepper adds a level of warmth and depth to the sauce that's hard to beat, and pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
12 lasagna noodlesLook for lasagna noodles that are made with high-quality ingredients and have a delicate texture.
2 cups (220g) grated mozzarella cheeseMozzarella cheese is essential for creating a creamy and melted texture, and pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
1 cup (115g) grated Parmesan cheeseParmesan cheese adds a level of complexity and depth to the dish that's hard to beat, and pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.

Ingredients for Classic Lasagna Bolognese

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or Dutch ovenSharp chef's knifeCutting boardWooden spoon or silicone spatula9x13 inch baking dishCheese grater or food processor

How to Make Classic Lasagna Bolognese

1
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.
3
In a large heavy skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and pork over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until it is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
4
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
5
Add the red wine, beef broth, crushed tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring the sauce to a simmer.
6
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer, stirring occasionally, for at least 2 hours, or until it has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
7
In a large bowl, combine the grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8
To assemble the lasagna, spread a layer of the bolognese sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
9
Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles, then repeat the layers, starting with the sauce, then the noodles, and finally the remaining cheese mixture.
10
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11
Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Expert Tips

Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente, as this will help them hold up to the rich bolognese sauce and melted cheese.
Don't overcook the sauce, as this can make it dry and flavorless.
Use high-quality ingredients, such as San Marzano tomatoes and freshly grated cheese, to get the best flavor out of the dish.
Let the lasagna rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving, as this will help the flavors to meld together and the cheese to set.
Consider making the bolognese sauce ahead of time and refrigerating or freezing it for later use, as this can save time and effort in the long run.
Experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to make the recipe your own.
Don't be afraid to get creative with the recipe and add your own personal touches, such as additional herbs or spices.
Consider serving the lasagna with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the lasagna noodles, which can make them mushy and unappetizing.
Not cooking the bolognese sauce long enough, which can result in a sauce that is thin and flavorless.
Using low-quality ingredients, such as canned cheese or pre-cooked sausage, which can negatively impact the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not letting the lasagna rest long enough, which can result in a dish that is messy and difficult to slice.
Not covering the baking dish with foil during the initial baking time, which can result in a lasagna that is dry and overcooked.
Not using enough cheese, which can result in a dish that is dry and flavorless.

Variations and Substitutions

Adding other ingredients to the bolognese sauce, such as diced bell peppers or mushrooms, to add flavor and texture.
Using different types of cheese, such as ricotta or provolone, to create a unique flavor profile.
Adding a layer of spinach or other leafy greens to the lasagna for added nutrition and flavor.
Using gluten-free lasagna noodles to make the dish more accessible to those with dietary restrictions.
Making individual servings of the lasagna in small baking dishes or ramekins for a fun and easy meal.
Adding a layer of meatballs or sausage to the lasagna for added protein and flavor.
Using different types of meat, such as ground turkey or beef, to create a unique flavor profile.

What to Serve With Classic Lasagna Bolognese

Classic Lasagna Bolognese is a dish that's perfect for serving with a variety of sides and drinks. Consider pairing it with a green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

For a special occasion, consider serving the lasagna with a bottle of red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, which will complement the rich flavors of the bolognese sauce and melted cheese.

Garlic breadGreen saladRoasted vegetablesGrilled chicken or steakSauteed spinachRoasted potatoes

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Classic Lasagna Bolognese can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. To refrigerate, let the lasagna cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To freeze, let the lasagna cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the lasagna overnight in the refrigerator, then bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until it is hot and bubbly.

When reheating the lasagna, make sure to cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. You can also add a little bit of water or broth to the lasagna to help keep it moist and flavorful.

Consider making individual servings of the lasagna and freezing them for later use. This can be a great way to have a quick and easy meal on hand, and can be especially convenient for busy weeknights or lunches on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cheese is best to use in lasagna?

The best type of cheese to use in lasagna is a combination of mozzarella and Parmesan. Mozzarella provides a creamy and melted texture, while Parmesan adds a salty and nutty flavor.

Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, lasagna can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen for later use. To refrigerate, let the lasagna cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To freeze, let the lasagna cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

How do I prevent lasagna from drying out?

To prevent lasagna from drying out, make sure to cover it with foil during the initial baking time, and add a little bit of water or broth to the lasagna to help keep it moist and flavorful. You can also consider adding a layer of spinach or other leafy greens to the lasagna to add moisture and flavor.

Can I use gluten-free lasagna noodles?

Yes, gluten-free lasagna noodles can be used to make the dish more accessible to those with dietary restrictions. Just be sure to cook the noodles according to the package instructions and adjust the cooking time as needed.

How do I reheat lasagna without drying it out?

To reheat lasagna without drying it out, make sure to cover it with foil and add a little bit of water or broth to the lasagna to help keep it moist and flavorful. You can also consider reheating the lasagna in a skillet on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is hot and bubbly.

Can I make individual servings of lasagna?

Yes, individual servings of lasagna can be made by baking the lasagna in small baking dishes or ramekins. This can be a great way to have a quick and easy meal on hand, and can be especially convenient for busy weeknights or lunches on the go.

How do I freeze lasagna?

To freeze lasagna, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the lasagna overnight in the refrigerator, then bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until it is hot and bubbly.

Can I use different types of meat in lasagna?

Yes, different types of meat can be used in lasagna, such as ground turkey or beef. Just be sure to cook the meat according to the package instructions and adjust the cooking time as needed.

The Full Recipe

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