Few dishes bring warmth and comfort to the table like a freshly baked lasagna casserole. With layers of rich meat sauce, tender pasta, and melted cheese bubbling on top, this classic family favorite never fails to satisfy. The recipe is easy to prepare, ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, holidays, or any time you want a hearty, filling meal that can feed a crowd. The casserole in the image showcases everything people love about lasagna: golden-brown cheese, savory beef, and irresistible aromas that fill the kitchen as it bakes.
Lasagna casseroles are popular because they combine simple ingredients into something deeply flavorful. Once assembled, the oven takes care of the cooking, allowing the flavors to merge as the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. The final result is a dish that is rich, creamy, and comforting, with each bite offering a perfect balance of pasta, beef, tomatoes, and cheese.
This recipe uses ground beef as the main protein, but it can easily be adapted to include sausage, turkey, or a mix of different meats. The cheese layer is a blend of mozzarella and ricotta, though cottage cheese can be used as an alternative. The sauce can be homemade or prepared using high-quality jarred marinara, making it suitable for both experienced cooks and beginners who want great results without the stress.
Below is a detailed guide to help you prepare your own cheesy baked beef lasagna casserole at home.
Ingredients
For the meat sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 kg ground beef
Salt and pepper
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 jar marinara sauce or 3 cups homemade tomato sauce
1 tablespoon tomato paste
For the cheese mixture:
2 cups ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
For layering:
12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 180°C. Use a lightly greased baking dish so the noodles do not stick and the cheese forms a nice crust. Heat olive oil in a large skillet, add the chopped onion, and cook until soft. Add the garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano.
Stir in the tomato paste and marinara sauce, lowering the heat to allow the mixture to simmer. Let the sauce cook for about 10 to 15 minutes so it thickens slightly and develops a deeper flavor. While the meat sauce simmers, prepare the cheese mixture by combining ricotta, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Cook the lasagna noodles until al dente. Drain and set them aside. Begin assembling the casserole by spreading a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. This prevents sticking and gives the first layer extra flavor. Add a layer of noodles, followed by ricotta mixture, then more meat sauce, and a generous layer of mozzarella. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a final topping of mozzarella and parmesan.
Cover the dish with foil to prevent the cheese from burning, and bake for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese becomes bubbly and golden as in the image. Allow the casserole to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving cleaner and easier.
Tips for Best Results
If you want extra depth of flavor, replace some of the ground beef with Italian sausage. For a creamier texture, add a small amount of heavy cream to the cheese mixture. Fresh herbs such as basil or parsley can be added before serving for a brighter flavor. The casserole can also be made ahead of time, refrigerated, and baked later, making it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, or frozen for several weeks without losing flavor or texture.
Conclusion
This cheesy baked beef lasagna casserole is a meal that never disappoints. It is filling, flavorful, and perfect for feeding both small families and large groups. With rich meat sauce, creamy cheese layers, and perfectly baked pasta, each slice delivers comfort and satisfaction. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, it is one of those recipes that quickly becomes a household favorite. If you enjoy classic comfort food, this lasagna casserole will definitely earn a regular spot on your menu.