A rustic-looking 9x13 inch baking dish filled with layers of slow-cooked beef ragu and pasta, topped with melted cheese and bubbling slightly

Lasagna

lasagna with a slow cooked beef ragu

By Elenore Davies

Published: 21 Feb 2025

This recipe isn't your average lasagna. It's a labor of love, starting with a slow-cooked beef ragu that simmers for hours, developing deep, rich flavors you won't find anywhere else. This isnt just a meal; its an experience.
Close-up shot of a bubbling beef ragu simmering in a Dutch oven
The secret? Low and slow cooking. This method creates unbelievably tender beef and a sauce that's so flavorful, you'll want to drink it straight from the spoon. (Okay, maybe not. But it's that good!). The process is easy, making it perfect for a weekend cooking project. Plus it's the perfect dish to share with family and friends.
A family gathered around a table, enjoying a plate of lasagna

Required Equipments

  • Large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven
  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Meat thermometer
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Colander

Lasagna-with-a-Slow-Cooked-Beef-Ragu

Indulge in a comforting and delicious lasagna featuring a slow-cooked beef ragu. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in with family or friends.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 4 servings

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 180 minutes

Total Time:

🍽 Ingredients

📖 Instructions

  1. First thing’s first: Get that beef ragu cooking! In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown 2 lbs of beef chuck roast over medium-high heat. Season generously with salt and pepper. Once browned, remove the beef and set aside.
  2. Next, add 1 large onion, chopped, and 2 carrots, chopped, to the pot. Saute until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute more. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
  3. Now, dump in 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce, 1 cup beef broth, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, but adds a lovely kick!), and 1 bay leaf. Stir well, making sure everything is combined perfectly.
  4. Return the beef to the pot, ensuring it is fully submerged in the sauce. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 3 hours, or even up to 6 hours for ultimate tenderness. Give it a good stir every now and then. Trust me; this is where the magic happens!
  5. While the ragu is simmering, you can prep other ingredients. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 1 lb of lasagna noodles according to package directions. Don't overcook; you want them al dente. Drain them and set aside. It's important to drain the noodles well or your lasagna will become watery!
  6. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the beef ragu, This is the base layer of your culinary masterpiece!
  7. Layer about 1/3 of the cooked lasagna noodles over the ragu. Spread another 1/3 of the ragu over the noodles. Repeat the process once more with the remaining noodles and the rest of the ragu.
  8. Top the lasagna with a generous amount of your favorite shredded cheeses. I love a mix of mozzarella and provolone, but feel free to get creative. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds that special touch.
  9. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil, and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the ragu is 165°F (74°C).
  10. Let the lasagna rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious home-cooked meal!

📝 Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use bone-in beef chuck roast.
  • Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference.
  • Substitute other vegetables like celery or mushrooms for the carrots, if desired.
  • For a vegetarian option, use lentils or mushrooms as a meat substitute in the ragu. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
  • You can use no-boil lasagna noodles to save time on prep.

🍎 Nutrition

Calories: 500 kcal

Protein: 30 g

Fat: 25 g

Carbohydrates: 60 g

Fiber: 5 g

Calcium: 200 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

"The best things in life are homemade." - Unknown

Want to join our exclusive community?

FOLLOW US

SavoryTouch offers general content intended solely for informational purposes. The information provided on this site is not a substitute for professional nutritional, dietary, or culinary advice. Always seek the advice of qualified professionals regarding any dietary concerns, health conditions, or food-related decisions.

© 2025 SavoryTouch. All Rights Reserved.