There's something incredibly comforting about a well-made Classic Beef Lasagna. With layers of rich bolognese, creamy béchamel, and melty cheese, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in!
Olive oil is the base for our sauce, providing a subtle richness and helping to sauté the aromatics.
Onion and garlic form the flavor foundation, adding depth and aroma to the sauce.
The ground beef is the star of the bolognese, bringing hearty, savory notes.
Canned tomatoes and tomato paste create a rich, tangy sauce that binds the ingredients together.
Dried oregano and basil add classic Italian herbaceousness that complements the tomato base.
Salt and black pepper enhance and balance the flavors.
The lasagna sheets provide structure and texture, holding all those delicious layers together.
Whole milk, butter, and all-purpose flour combine to make a creamy béchamel sauce, with a hint of nutmeg for warmth.
Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy top layer.
Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, nutty finish to the top of the lasagna.
This hearty lasagna pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette. A side of garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate. If you're feeling fancy, a glass of Chianti complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's perfectly hot by the time your lasagna is ready to bake.
For the bolognese, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent. The aroma should fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting scent.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. You want it to be evenly cooked with no pink remaining.
Once the beef is browned, stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
While the sauce is doing its thing, start on the béchamel. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour, whisking until smooth to avoid lumps.
Gradually pour in the milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. Stir in a pinch of nutmeg, then remove from heat.
Cook the lasagna sheets according to their package instructions. Once done, drain them and set aside to cool slightly.
Now, it's assembly time! In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of bolognese sauce. Add a layer of lasagna sheets, followed by a layer of béchamel and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat these layers, finishing with béchamel and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan.
Place your masterpiece in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling. Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting time helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.
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