Description
Looking for a lasagna recipe that’s hearty, cheesy, and bursting with bold garlic flavor? This Parmesan Garlic Beef Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food. Layers of rich meat sauce, creamy garlic béchamel, tender lasagna noodles, and gooey cheese come together in this classic Italian-American dish that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.
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Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Garlic Parmesan Béchamel Sauce:
3 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
9 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Stir in ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Béchamel
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove raw taste.
Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper.
Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
If using regular noodles, cook according to package instructions.
Drain and lay flat on a towel to prevent sticking.
If using no-boil noodles, skip this step.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
Add a layer of noodles over the sauce.
Spread ⅓ of the garlic béchamel over the noodles.
Top with ⅓ of the meat sauce and a handful of shredded mozzarella.
Repeat the layers two more times: noodles, béchamel, meat sauce, mozzarella.
Finish with a final layer of noodles, remaining béchamel, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan on top.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to help it set.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Use Fresh Garlic – It adds a richer, more authentic flavor than garlic powder.
Grate Cheese Fresh – Freshly grated Parmesan melts and blends better than pre-shredded.
Let It Rest – Allowing the lasagna to rest before slicing prevents it from falling apart.
Add Layers – For extra richness, layer in ricotta or spinach if desired.
Cook Noodles Al Dente – If using regular noodles, slightly undercook them so they finish baking in the oven.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-American