Description
A classic Italian comfort food dish, this homemade lasagna features a rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel sauce, and layers of perfectly cooked noodles.
Ingredients
- Lasagna noodles (fresh or dried)
- Ground beef
- Italian sausage
- Canned crushed tomatoes
- Fresh basil
- Oregano
- Parsley
- Ricotta cheese
- Fresh mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Butter
- Flour
- Milk
- Salt
- White pepper
- Nutmeg
- Garlic
- Red pepper flakes
- Red wine (Chianti or Merlot)
Instructions
- Prepare the meat sauce by browning ground beef and Italian sausage in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
- Add crushed tomatoes and herbs to the meat mixture, season well, and simmer for at least an hour.
- Make the béchamel sauce by melting butter in a saucepan, whisking in flour, and slowly adding milk until thickened. Season with salt, white pepper, and nutmeg.
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions if using dried ones. If using fresh, they may require less cooking time.
- Mix ricotta cheese with eggs, herbs, salt, and pepper for the cheese layer.
- Start layering the lasagna: a layer of meat sauce, followed by noodles, béchamel sauce, and cheese. Repeat until ingredients are used up, finishing with cheese on top.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the lasagna for 45-60 minutes until bubbling and golden brown on top.
- Let the lasagna rest for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Notes
Lasagna can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months before baking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian