Classic Beef Lasagna with Aioli

Name: Classic Beef Lasagna with Aioli
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 lasagna noodles; 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes

As a family favorite, my Classic Beef Lasagna with Aioli never fails to impress during gatherings. I love how the layers of rich meat sauce and gooey cheese come together, creating a comforting dish that warms both the heart and stomach. The addition of homemade aioli elevates this classic recipe, adding a creamy, garlicky twist that surprises and delights everyone at the table. Whether it's a cozy dinner or a celebration, this lasagna is my go-to, and I'm excited to share it with you.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:58:28.440Z

Making this Classic Beef Lasagna with Aioli has become a cherished tradition in my household. I remember the first time I attempted it, ensuring each layer was packed with flavor. Using a mix of ground beef and homemade tomato sauce turned out to be the secret to a deliciously hearty filling.

What I found particularly rewarding was preparing the aioli from scratch. It’s a bit of an extra step, but the added depth of flavor is worth it. Trust me, pairing this creamy sauce with each bite of lasagna enhances the overall experience tremendously!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of savory beef and rich cheese layers
Homemade aioli adds a delightful twist
Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions

      

Mastering the Layers

Layering is the key to achieving that perfect bite of lasagna. Start by evenly distributing the meat sauce, ricotta mixture, and cheeses across each layer. To prevent dryness, ensure that every noodle is covered, especially the top layer where moisture evaporates. If you notice the edges browning too quickly, you can cover the dish with foil during the latter part of the baking to maintain moisture.

For an added depth of flavor in your layers, consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms or spinach into your meat sauce. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for a nutritious twist. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a vibrant color contrast to your layers, making the dish even more appetizing.

The Role of Cheeses

The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese is what makes this lasagna irresistibly creamy and flavorful. Ricotta lends a light, fluffy texture, while mozzarella provides gooey meltiness that stringily pulls apart with each slice. Parmesan, on the other hand, adds a sharp, nutty undertone that complements the richness of the beef.

If you're looking for a lower-fat option, you can substitute part-skim ricotta or mozzarella. Just keep in mind that lower-fat cheeses may not melt as smoothly. For an alternate flavor, try mixing in some crumbled feta for a Mediterranean flair, or experiment with smoked mozzarella for a different taste dimension.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Classic Beef Lasagna with Aioli

For the Lasagna

12 lasagna noodles
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups marinara sauce
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Aioli

1 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all the ingredients to make this delicious lasagna and aioli.

Instructions

Instructions for Classic Beef Lasagna

Cook the Noodles

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Beef Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onions and minced garlic until browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in marinara sauce. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with salt, pepper, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.

Assemble the Lasagna

Spread a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place 4 lasagna noodles on top, add half of the ricotta mixture, one-third of the mozzarella, and another layer of meat sauce. Repeat layers, finishing with noodles and remaining sauce.

Top with mozzarella and the rest of the Parmesan.

Bake the Lasagna

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let cool before serving.

Make the Aioli

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve the lasagna hot with a side of aioli for dipping or drizzling.

Pro Tips

Let the lasagna sit for about 15 minutes before cutting to allow it to set. This also helps in serving neat slices.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Lasagna is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble it a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to extend the baking time by about 10-15 minutes if baking straight from the fridge. This allows the dish to heat evenly throughout and develop those beautiful golden edges.

If you're looking to freeze leftovers, portion them out in airtight containers. Be sure to let the lasagna cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can lead to freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this lasagna with a simple side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the richness of the dish, balancing the flavors perfectly. You could also accompany it with garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce, making for a hearty meal that leaves everyone satisfied.

For a seasonal touch, consider pairing your lasagna with grilled vegetables during the warmer months. Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus not only add freshness but also enhance the dish's visual appeal, inviting guests to dig in and enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add a few minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

→ Can I substitute the meat with vegetables?

Absolutely! You can replace the beef with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a delicious vegetarian version.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Is it okay to freeze lasagna?

Yes, lasagna freezes well. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.