Mom's Secret Lasagna is a cherished family recipe that strikes a perfect balance between hearty and comforting. This dish is ideal for gatherings, offering layers of rich flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. It's a timeless classic with a few secret touches that elevate it above the rest.
The combination of ground beef and pork creates a hearty base, while the garlic and onion add a savory depth. A mix of crushed tomatoes and tomato paste ensures a thick, flavorful sauce. Sugar balances the acidity, and dried basil and oregano infuse an aromatic Italian essence. The homemade béchamel sauce, made from milk, butter, and flour, adds a creamy layer, subtly enhanced by nutmeg. Lasagna noodles provide structure, while ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses create a gooey, cheesy delight.
This lasagna pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a loaf of crusty garlic bread. A glass of red wine, like Chianti or Sangiovese, complements the rich flavors wonderfully.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F, so it's ready when you need it. Then, grab a large skillet and brown the ground beef and pork over medium heat. Once browned, add in the garlic and onion and sauté until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, basil, oregano, and some salt and pepper. Let this simmer away for about 30 minutes, allowing all those flavors to meld beautifully.
While that's cooking, start on the béchamel sauce. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir continuously for a minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the sauce thickens up nicely. Season with a touch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them well and set aside, ready for layering.
Now, it’s time to assemble. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce. Lay down the first set of noodles, followed by more meat sauce, then a layer of the creamy béchamel, and spoonfuls of ricotta. Sprinkle with mozzarella and repeat the layers, ending with mozzarella and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan on top.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and let it bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese becomes bubbly and golden. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
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