Lasagna Recipe
Lasagna is a classic Italian dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This amazing lasagna recipe combines layers of rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and gooey cheese to create a comforting and delicious meal.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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500g ground beef
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1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Béchamel Sauce
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4 tablespoons butter
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4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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3 cups milk
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A pinch of nutmeg
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Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly
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12 sheets lasagna noodles
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent.
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Add ground beef to the skillet, cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
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Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
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Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce
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In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a roux.
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Gradually whisk in milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
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Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until the sauce thickens.
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Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
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Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce.
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Spread a layer of béchamel sauce over the noodles, followed by a layer of meat sauce.
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Sprinkle some mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
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Repeat the layers, finishing with béchamel and cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake the Lasagna
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Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
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Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
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Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Perfect Lasagna
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Noodle Preparation: If using oven-ready noodles, ensure they are fully covered in sauce to soften during baking.
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Cheese Variations: Add ricotta cheese for extra creaminess or substitute with your favorite cheese blend.
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Make Ahead: Prepare lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for enhanced flavors.
Enjoy your amazing lasagna with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!