Description
Lasagna with béchamel sauce is a classic Italian dish featuring layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and a creamy béchamel. This hearty and satisfying recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you're craving comfort food. The béchamel adds a velvety texture that elevates the traditional lasagna to a new level.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups whole milk
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef and pork, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in marinara sauce, tomato paste, and red wine (if using). Simmer for 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a roux, cooking for 2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the béchamel sauce thickens. Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of lasagna noodles.
- Spoon a layer of béchamel sauce over the noodles, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with béchamel and cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of ground beef and pork.
- Make the béchamel sauce ahead of time to save on prep time.
- Lasagna can be assembled in advance and baked when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg