Ultimate Meat Lasagna

Ingredients

This is my favorite Italian Comfort meal. It’s wholesome and cozy. This is also my go-to meal to prep for families.

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 1/2 lbs. ground beef
• 1 lb ground chicken
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 36 oz marinara

For the Cheesy Layers

• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 8 oz parmesan cheese (shredded)
• 16 oz mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• 2 tbsp parsley
• 1 egg

For the Pasta

• 9 oz box of GF lasagna sheets

How to Make Ultimate Meat Lasagna

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s hot enough when you’re ready to bake.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spray a 9 x 13 x 3 deep baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and make serving easier.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

In a pot, cook the GF lasagna sheets according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Meat

Place a large skillet over medium heat, add both ground beef and ground chicken. Cook completely until browned, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Season the Meat

Once cooked, season the meat with kosher salt and black pepper. Stir well to combine flavors.

Step 6: Add Marinara Sauce

Drain excess oil from the skillet. Pour in the marinara sauce and mix thoroughly with the meat. Let it cook for a few minutes before removing from heat.

Step 7: Prepare Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley. Mix well until smooth.

Step 8: Layer the Lasagna

In your prepared baking dish:
1. Start with a layer of marinara/meat mix at the bottom.
2. Add a layer of cooked noodles on top.
3. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
4. Repeat these layers twice more, finishing with noodles on top.

Step 9: Add Final Toppings

Cover the top layer of noodles with mozzarella cheese evenly.

Step 10: Bake

Place in preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 11: Cool Before Serving

Remove from oven and let sit for about 30 minutes before serving to allow layers to set properly. Enjoy!

How to Serve Ultimate Meat Lasagna

Serving the Ultimate Meat Lasagna is an experience in itself. This dish not only fills the stomach but also warms the heart, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your lasagna experience.

Classic Salad

• Mixed Greens – A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagna.
• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy Caesar dressing and croutons adds a crunchy texture.

Garlic Bread

• Traditional Garlic Bread – Slices of baguette brushed with garlic butter and toasted until golden brown provide a delicious side that pairs perfectly with marinara sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread – Add mozzarella cheese on top of garlic bread for an extra cheesy indulgence that everyone will love.

Steamed Vegetables

• Broccoli and Carrots – Lightly steamed broccoli and carrots offer a healthy contrast to the hearty lasagna.
• Green Beans Almondine – Green beans sautéed with almonds add a nutty flavor that enhances your meal.