American Beauty Lasagna Recipe You’ll Fall in Love With

Lasagna has a magical way of bringing people together, doesn’t it? Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a celebratory feast, this American Beauty Lasagna Recipe promises to deliver everything you love about a classic lasagna—rich layers of pasta, a hearty homemade meat sauce, and gooey, melted cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest, crafted to please every palate at the table.

Perfect for feeding a crowd or indulging in leftovers the next day, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between traditional Italian flavors and an easy-to-follow process. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into creating a dish your family will fall in love with, one cheesy bite at a time!

Key Benefits for American Beauty Lasagna

What makes this American Beauty Lasagna Recipe stand out? It’s more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and simplicity. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Classic Comfort Food: With layers of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy cheese, this lasagna offers a taste of home in every bite.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Beginner-Friendly: You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to nail this recipe. Clear steps and simple techniques make it easy to follow.
• Customizable for All Palates: From vegetarian to gluten-free adaptations, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.
• Leftover Heaven: Lasagna tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying over multiple meals.

Every bite of this lasagna is like a warm hug, combining the best of Italian-American flavors with a timeless appeal. Ready to roll up your sleeves and start layering? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients of American Beauty Lasagna

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward lasagna perfection. Here’s everything you’ll need to create this irresistible American Beauty Lasagna:

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef: Adds a rich, savory depth.
• 1 lb Italian sausage: Enhances the flavor with a touch of spice.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Balances the meat with a subtle sweetness.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth.
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: Provides a hearty base for the sauce.
• 2 (6 oz) cans tomato paste: Thickens the sauce for perfect layering.
• 2 (15 oz) cans tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, flavorful consistency.
• 1 tbsp dried basil & 1 tbsp dried oregano: Bring classic Italian herbiness to the dish.
• 1 tsp sugar: Cuts acidity and enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season as you go!

For the Ricotta Mixture:

• 16 oz ricotta cheese: The creamy star of your lasagna layers.
• 1 egg: Binds the ricotta for a smooth, rich texture.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts the savory, cheesy flavor.

For Assembly:

• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente: The backbone of your lasagna layers.
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey top layer.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For the perfect finishing touch.

Pro Tip:

Measure and prep your ingredients before starting. It saves time and makes the cooking process smoother. Now that you’ve got everything ready, let’s move on to putting it all together!

Instructions: How to Make the Perfect American Beauty Lasagna

With all your ingredients prepped and ready to go, let’s dive into creating this rich and satisfying lasagna. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a beautifully layered dish in no time!

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. Cook the Ground Beef and Italian Sausage: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them apart with a wooden spoon as they cook. Brown them until they’re fully cooked and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Add the Onions and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce. Mix well to combine. Add the dried basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer over low heat, and let it cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld and deepen.

Step 2: Make the Ricotta Mixture

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, chopped fresh parsley, and grated Parmesan. Stir until smooth and well combined. This mixture will be creamy and flavorful, perfect for layering.

Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

1. Prepare the Noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente. Be sure not to overcook them, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven. Drain and lay the noodles flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent them from sticking together.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Start with a Layer of Meat Sauce: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Begin by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
2. Add the Noodles: Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, slightly overlapping them.
3. Layer the Ricotta Mixture: Spread about 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, smoothing it out with a spatula.
4. Add Cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta, followed by a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
5. Repeat the Layers: Continue layering: sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan until all ingredients are used up. End with a layer of meat sauce and top it with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil (shiny side down) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
2. Uncover and Brown: After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
3. Optional Crispy Top: For a golden, crispy top, broil the lasagna on high for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, keeping a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Let it Rest: Once baked, allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes for cleaner, more manageable slices.
2. Serve and Enjoy: Slice into hearty portions, and serve your beautiful, cheesy lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and prepare for compliments!

Pro Tip: To save time, you can prep the meat sauce and ricotta mixture a day in advance and refrigerate them. This not only shortens your cooking time on the day of assembly but also enhances the flavor of the sauce!

Pro Tips and Variations for the Perfect American Beauty Lasagna

When it comes to lasagna, the devil is in the details, and these pro tips and creative variations will elevate your dish and make it truly special. Whether you’re looking to save time, try a different flavor, or make the dish fit dietary preferences, these tips are sure to enhance your cooking experience.

Pro Tips for an Effortless, Flavorful Lasagna

1. Make Sure to Simmer the Sauce Long Enough
   
   • The longer the sauce simmers, the deeper the flavors become. For best results, let it simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes to allow the herbs to infuse and the meat to tenderize. Don’t rush this step—it’s where the magic happens!
2. Use Fresh Ricotta for the Creamiest Layers
   
   • Fresh ricotta cheese is smoother and creamier than the store-bought version. If you can, opt for whole milk ricotta for a richer texture that’ll melt perfectly between your lasagna layers.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Layers
   
   • While it might be tempting to stuff each layer with as much filling as possible, remember that less is more. Each layer should be spread evenly—this ensures that every bite has the right balance of meat, cheese, and sauce.
4. Rest Before Slicing
   
   • Once baked, let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing into it. This helps the layers set and ensures you get those clean, Instagram-worthy slices without a mess.
5. Cover with Foil for the First Part of Baking
   
   • Covering the lasagna with aluminum foil for the first 25 minutes of baking keeps it moist. Removing the foil at the end gives the cheese a beautiful, golden-brown finish.

Creative Variations to Make It Your Own

1. Vegetarian Twist
   
   • Skip the meat and load up your lasagna with hearty vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach. You can even add ricotta and spinach in place of the meat sauce for a vegetarian version that’s just as comforting.
2. A Spicy Kick
   
   • If you love a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped fresh jalapeños to the meat sauce. This will give the lasagna a spicy depth without overpowering the other flavors.
3. Gluten-Free Lasagna
   
   • For a gluten-free option, substitute regular noodles with gluten-free lasagna sheets. You can also try thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant as a healthy, low-carb alternative.
4. Add a Béchamel Layer
   
   • Swap the ricotta mixture for a silky béchamel sauce (a white sauce made with butter, flour, and milk) to give your lasagna a luxurious texture. This variation is especially delicious when paired with a variety of cheeses.
5. Cheese Lover’s Dream
   
   • Add more cheese to take your lasagna to the next level. Blend in extra mozzarella, fontina, or provolone for a gooey, cheesy lasagna that’s sure to please any cheese enthusiast.
6. Seafood Lasagna
   
   • For a coastal variation, swap the meat for seafood. Shrimp, scallops, and crab meat are all excellent choices. A creamy white sauce complements the seafood perfectly, giving the dish a rich and indulgent flavor.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Make Ahead: You can assemble your lasagna a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to marry even more, and it makes dinner time a breeze the next day.
• Freezing: To freeze, assemble your lasagna, but don’t bake it. Cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen—just add 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
• Reheating Leftovers: Lasagna reheats beautifully. Cover leftover slices with foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

With these expert tips and creative twists, you can make this lasagna truly your own. Whether you’re sticking to the classic recipe or trying something new, you’re guaranteed a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish every time. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Your American Beauty Lasagna

Now that your lasagna is fresh out of the oven, it’s time to think about how to serve it! The right sides and pairings can elevate this dish even further, creating a full meal that will impress your family or guests. Here are some serving suggestions that will make your American Beauty Lasagna even more memorable.

1. Fresh and Crisp Salad
A light, refreshing salad is the perfect balance to the rich, cheesy lasagna. Opt for a green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the heaviness. Consider these options:

• Classic Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a tangy Caesar dressing.
• Mediterranean Salad: Cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, dressed in olive oil and lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor.
• Arugula and Parmesan Salad: Simple and elegant with peppery arugula and shaved Parmesan tossed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

2. Garlic Bread or Crusty Baguette
You can’t go wrong with garlic bread to accompany your lasagna. The crunchy, buttery bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce. Here are a few variations to try:

• Classic Garlic Bread: Spread butter and minced garlic on a baguette, then toast until golden.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add shredded mozzarella to your garlic bread for an extra layer of indulgence.
• Herbed Breadsticks: Soft, flavorful breadsticks brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with dried herbs like rosemary and thyme.

3. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables bring a lovely, caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with lasagna’s rich taste. Here are a few easy choices:

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Carrots: Season with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until tender.
• Garlic-Parmesan Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets with garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan, then roast until crispy and golden.
• Oven-Roasted Zucchini: Slice zucchini and toss it in olive oil and Italian seasoning for a simple, healthy side.

4. A Sweet Finale: Dessert Ideas
After your hearty lasagna, a sweet dessert can be the perfect ending to the meal. Consider these delicious options:

• Tiramisu: A classic Italian dessert with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream.
• Cannoli: Crispy pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta and chocolate chips.
• Gelato: If you’re craving something lighter, serve a scoop of rich Italian gelato in flavors like vanilla, chocolate, or pistachio.

With these serving suggestions, your American Beauty Lasagna will be the star of the table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a family meal, or preparing a cozy dinner for two, these sides and pairings will elevate your meal and create an unforgettable experience. Happy dining!

American Beauty Lasagna Recipe

Emily Wilson

Indulge in the mouthwatering American Beauty Lasagna rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella for the ultimate comfort food experience!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Italian

Servings 8

Calories 480 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef: Adds a rich savory depth.
• 1 lb Italian sausage: Enhances the flavor with a touch of spice.
• 1 medium onion finely chopped: Balances the meat with a subtle sweetness.
• 4 cloves garlic minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth.
• 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes: Provides a hearty base for the sauce.
• 2 6 oz cans tomato paste: Thickens the sauce for perfect layering.
• 2 15 oz cans tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, flavorful consistency.
• 1 tbsp dried basil & 1 tbsp dried oregano: Bring classic Italian herbiness to the dish.
• 1 tsp sugar: Cuts acidity and enhances the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season as you go!

For the Ricotta Mixture:

• 16 oz ricotta cheese: The creamy star of your lasagna layers.
• 1 egg: Binds the ricotta for a smooth rich texture.
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts the savory cheesy flavor.

For Assembly:

• 12 lasagna noodles cooked al dente: The backbone of your lasagna layers.
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that gooey top layer.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For the perfect finishing touch.

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

• Cook the Ground Beef and Italian Sausage: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them apart with a wooden spoon as they cook. Brown them until they’re fully cooked and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes.
• Add the Onions and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
• Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce. Mix well to combine. Add the dried basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer over low heat, and let it cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld and deepen.

Step 2: Make the Ricotta Mixture

• Mix the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, chopped fresh parsley, and grated Parmesan. Stir until smooth and well combined. This mixture will be creamy and flavorful, perfect for layering.

Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

• Prepare the Noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente. Be sure not to overcook them, as they’ll continue to cook in the oven. Drain and lay the noodles flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent them from sticking together.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

• Start with a Layer of Meat Sauce: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Begin by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish.
• Add the Noodles: Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, slightly overlapping them.
• Layer the Ricotta Mixture: Spread about 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, smoothing it out with a spatula.
• Add Cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the ricotta, followed by a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan.
• Repeat the Layers: Continue layering: sauce, noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan until all ingredients are used up. End with a layer of meat sauce and top it with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

• Cover and Bake: Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil (shiny side down) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
• Uncover and Brown: After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
• Optional Crispy Top: For a golden, crispy top, broil the lasagna on high for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, keeping a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

• Let it Rest: Once baked, allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes for cleaner, more manageable slices.
• Serve and Enjoy: Slice into hearty portions, and serve your beautiful, cheesy lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and prepare for compliments!

Pro Tip:

• To save time, you can prep the meat sauce and ricotta mixture a day in advance and refrigerate them. This not only shortens your cooking time on the day of assembly but also enhances the flavor of the sauce!

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Protein: 32g
• Carbs: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 9g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 680mg
• Calcium: 350mg
• Iron: 3.5mg

Keyword Comfort Food, Italian, Lasagna, Meat Lasagna

Conclusion: Why You’ll Fall in Love with This American Beauty Lasagna

After putting in the time and effort to prepare this delicious American Beauty Lasagna, you’ll quickly see why it’s such a beloved dish. From its rich, flavorful meat sauce to the creamy ricotta layers and gooey mozzarella on top, every bite offers comfort, indulgence, and a touch of homemade goodness. Whether you’re enjoying it for a family dinner or sharing it at a gathering, this lasagna is sure to impress.

Here’s Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Layers: The combination of ground beef, Italian sausage, and a blend of herbs creates a savory, aromatic sauce that infuses every layer of the lasagna.
• Perfectly Balanced: The creamy ricotta and mozzarella balance the savory meat sauce, ensuring every forkful is a perfect mix of textures and flavors.
• Versatile and Customizable: Whether you want to make it vegetarian, spice it up, or try a new cheese combo, this recipe offers endless possibilities to fit your taste.

Tips for Making It Even Better

• Prep in Advance: Make it ahead of time! As with many pasta dishes, lasagna tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld together. Simply store it in the fridge overnight and bake when you’re ready to serve.
• Use High-Quality Ingredients: To make the best lasagna, invest in quality cheese, tomatoes, and fresh herbs. These small changes can make a huge difference in the final result!
• Share the Love: Lasagna is a dish meant to be shared. It’s perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying with your loved ones.

So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this American Beauty Lasagna recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s comforting, delicious, and full of rich flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Don’t forget to snap a picture of your creation—this dish is not only delicious but also stunningly beautiful, making it worthy of a spot on your feed. Happy cooking!

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Making American Beauty Lasagna

We know you’re excited to try making this delicious lasagna, but you might have a few questions. Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with some frequently asked questions to help make your cooking experience even easier.

We hope these answers make your cooking experience even more enjoyable. Whether you’re an expert in the kitchen or just getting started, this American Beauty Lasagna is a recipe that’s bound to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your beautiful creations with friends and family!