When you think of lasagna, your mind might immediately go to the traditional meat-and-tomato-sauce-filled Italian classic. But sometimes, breaking away from the norm leads to extraordinary results. Enter Ham and Cheese Lasagna — a creamy, savory, and utterly comforting take on the beloved dish.
With layers of velvety béchamel sauce, tender lasagna noodles, savory ham, and gooey cheese, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply treating yourself to something indulgent. It’s a dish that balances familiarity with a delicious twist, making it a must-try for anyone who loves comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. A Unique Spin on Lasagna
This isn’t your traditional lasagna. The combination of ham and cheese creates a flavor profile reminiscent of a hearty casserole, with the layers of pasta adding a delightful texture.
2. Simple Yet Elegant
Despite its luxurious taste, this lasagna is easy to prepare, thanks to simple ingredients like béchamel sauce and pre-cooked ham.
3. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a holiday gathering, this dish is sure to impress without adding stress to your schedule.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Lasagna
- Lasagna Noodles (12): The base of any good lasagna, these create the structured layers that hold the dish together.
- Cooked Ham (2 cups, diced): Adds a salty, savory element that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
- Mozzarella Cheese (3 cups, shredded): Provides the gooey, melty texture everyone loves.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the top layer for extra depth.
For the Béchamel Sauce
- Butter (4 tbsp): The base fat for creating the roux.
- All-Purpose Flour (4 tbsp): Thickens the sauce to a creamy consistency.
- Milk (4 cups, warm): Provides the rich, creamy texture of the sauce.
- Nutmeg (1/4 tsp): A classic addition to béchamel, lending a subtle warmth.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the sauce to perfection.
Optional Garnish
- Fresh Thyme or Parsley: Adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to balance the richness of the dish.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Follow the package instructions to cook the lasagna noodles until al dente. Drain and lay flat on a clean surface to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce
- Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually add 4 cups of warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom of the dish.
- Lay down 3 cooked lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce, diced ham, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layering process until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of béchamel sauce and a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Lasagna
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a burst of freshness. Serve with garlic bread and a green salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Ham and Cheese Lasagna
1. Use High-Quality Cheese
Since cheese is a star ingredient, using high-quality mozzarella and Parmesan will elevate the dish’s flavor and texture.
2. Make the Béchamel Smooth
Whisk continuously while making the béchamel sauce to ensure it’s lump-free and silky.
3. Customize the Protein
Feel free to substitute ham with other proteins like cooked chicken, turkey, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
4. Don’t Overcook the Noodles
Cook the lasagna noodles until al dente to avoid a mushy texture after baking.
5. Let It Rest
Allow the lasagna to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier.
Variations to Try
1. Spinach and Ham Lasagna
Add a layer of sautéed spinach between the noodles for added color and nutrition.
2. Gluten-Free Version
Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and swap the all-purpose flour in the béchamel with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour.
3. Four-Cheese Lasagna
Enhance the cheese factor by adding ricotta or provolone to the mix.
4. Lightened-Up Option
Substitute heavy cream or whole milk in the béchamel with a lighter option, such as unsweetened almond milk.
Pairing Suggestions
This Ham and Cheese Lasagna pairs beautifully with sides and beverages that complement its rich flavors.
1. Garlic Bread
Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
2. Fresh Green Salad
A salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the dish’s richness.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Try roasted asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy side.
4. Beverage Pairings
A glass of Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon makes an excellent drink choice.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This lasagna freezes well. Wrap individual portions tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.
Nutritional Information
This recipe serves approximately 8 people. Here’s an estimate per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fat: 20g
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving.
2. Can I Use Pre-Made Béchamel Sauce?
Absolutely. While homemade béchamel sauce is preferred, pre-made sauce can save time.
3. What’s the Best Way to Cut Lasagna?
Use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts for neat slices.
Final Thoughts
This Ham and Cheese Lasagna is a delightful alternative to traditional lasagna, offering creamy, cheesy layers that melt in your mouth. The savory ham, tender noodles, and rich béchamel sauce come together to create a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent.
Perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions, this lasagna is sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Serve it with your favorite sides, pour a glass of wine or sparkling water, and savor every bite of this creamy masterpiece.
Happy cooking!
Creamy Ham and Cheese Lasagna: A Comforting Twist on a Classic
Ingredients
– 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
– 2 cups diced cooked ham
– 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 4 cups béchamel sauce (see directions below)
– Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
For the Béchamel Sauce:
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 4 cups milk (warm)
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the béchamel sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour, and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add warm milk, whisking constantly until thickened. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Layer 3 cooked lasagna noodles, followed by more béchamel sauce, diced ham, and shredded mozzarella. Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, finishing with béchamel and a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
5. Let rest for 10 minutes, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, and serve.