Description
A rich, comforting classic lasagna layered with a hearty meat sauce, silky béchamel, tender noodles, and melty cheeses. This Best Lasagna recipe is perfect for family dinners, celebrations, or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Ground Beef: 500 grams
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
- Crushed Tomatoes or Passata: 800 grams
- Red Wine (optional): ¼ cup
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tablespoon
- Salt & Pepper: To taste
- Butter: 4 tablespoons
- All-Purpose Flour: 4 tablespoons
- Milk: 3 cups
- Nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon
- Salt (for béchamel): 1 teaspoon
- Lasagna Noodles: 12 sheets
- Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded
- Parmesan Cheese: ¾ cup, grated
Instructions
- Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Combine Ingredients: Sauté onion in olive oil, add garlic and beef, cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, seasoning, and wine. Simmer for 20–30 minutes.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly add milk, whisking until thick. Season with salt and nutmeg.
- Assemble the Dish: Layer meat sauce, noodles, béchamel, and cheeses. Repeat layers and finish with béchamel and cheese on top.
- Cook to Perfection: Cover with foil and bake for 30–35 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Finishing Touches: Let rest for at least 15 minutes to set.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve hot with basil or extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Use quality tomatoes for the richest sauce.
- Freeze between layers or before baking for make-ahead ease.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for variation.
- Let rest before slicing for clean servings.