This lasagna recipe is a comforting classic, made with rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and layers of tender pasta. It’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy gathering, offering a hearty, flavorful dish everyone will love.
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- For the Lasagna:
- 200g lasagne sheets
- 500g minced meat
- 250g tomatoes, diced
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Mozzarella cheese, grated
- Salt, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- Italian seasoning, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 50g butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 500ml milk
Directions
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped red onion, grated carrot, diced red pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened.
- Add minced meat and cook until browned. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add flour, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Gradually add milk, stirring until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a large baking dish.
- Place lasagne sheets over the sauce.
- Add layers of meat sauce, béchamel, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat until ingredients are used, finishing with béchamel and mozzarella on top.
- Bake:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad and garlic bread.
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine for an elegant meal.
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh lasagne sheets for a quicker, softer result.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes after baking for easier slicing.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in protein from the meat and cheese.
- Provides vitamins from the vegetables.
Dietary Information
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free lasagne sheets and flour.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: ~400
- Protein: ~25g
- Fat: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A classic recipe that brings comfort and nostalgia.
- Versatile, allowing for substitutions like ground turkey or plant-based meat.
- Layers of flavor with a perfect balance of creamy and savory.
- A crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for meal prepping or entertaining.
Conclusion
This homemade lasagna is a time-tested favorite, offering layers of bold flavors and creamy textures that will leave everyone satisfied. With its straightforward preparation and delicious results, this dish is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Make it your own by experimenting with vegetables or cheese, and enjoy the warm, comforting taste of a classic lasagna!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use store-bought béchamel sauce?
Yes, store-bought béchamel can save time if you’re in a hurry. - Can I make lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Cover with foil and reheat in a 180°C (350°F) oven for 20 minutes or microwave individual portions. - Can I freeze cooked lasagna?
Yes, cool completely before freezing. Reheat directly from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge. - What other cheeses can I use?
Try ricotta, cheddar, or Gruyère for different flavors. - How do I prevent dry lasagna?
Ensure there’s enough sauce in each layer, and cover with foil during baking. - Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions. - Do I need to boil lasagne sheets first?
If using no-boil sheets, it’s unnecessary. Otherwise, follow package instructions. - How long should lasagna rest after baking?
Let it rest for 10-15 minutes to firm up and make slicing easier. - Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, replace the meat with lentils, tofu, or plant-based crumbles.