Classic Italian Lasagna Recipe

Italian cuisine is beloved worldwide for its depth of flavors and heartwarming dishes. Among these, lasagna stands out as a quintessential comfort food, perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any time you crave something deliciously indulgent. Classic Italian lasagna layers rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, tender pasta, and melty cheeses, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite. Here's how you can bring this traditional Italian favorite right to your dinner table.

this Recipes

Ingredients:

For the Meat Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ pound ground pork
• 28 ounces can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• ½ cup red wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• Nutmeg, a pinch
• Salt and white pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients:

• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
• 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:

• Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent.
• Increase the heat and add the ground beef and pork, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
• Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine, basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it cooks, the better the flavors will develop.

2. Make the Béchamel Sauce:

• In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes pale golden, forming a roux.
• Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Add a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and white pepper to taste. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Lasagna:

• Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
• In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce. Layer with cooked lasagna noodles, followed by more meat sauce, a layer of béchamel sauce, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan and mozzarella.
• Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with béchamel sauce and a layer of both cheeses.

4. Bake the Lasagna:

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

5. Rest and Serve:

• Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve.
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an added touch of freshness.

Conclusion:

This classic Italian lasagna recipe promises a rich and satisfying meal, encapsulating the essence of Italian home cooking. Each layer offers a delightful taste and texture, from the savory meat sauce to the creamy béchamel and gooey cheeses. Serve this dish to family and friends for a memorable meal that celebrates the art of Italian cuisine. Enjoy the process of cooking and the joy of sharing a beautiful, homemade dish. Buon appetito!

Print