Authentic Italian Lasagna
A classic Italian dish featuring layers of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and tender noodles, perfect for comfort food lovers.
Equipment
- large skillet
- medium saucepan
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 lb Ground beef or Italian sausage A mix of both can enhance flavor.
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Provides aromatic flavor.
- 28 oz Crushed tomatoes Base for the meat sauce.
- 6 oz Tomato paste Thickens the sauce and adds richness.
- 14 oz Tomato sauce Enhances the sauce's flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For sautéing the vegetables.
- 1 teaspoon Dried basil Adds a classic Italian flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano Enhances the sauce's aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt To taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper To taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon Red pepper flakes Optional for heat.
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
For the Cheese Mixture
- 15 oz Ricotta cheese Provides creaminess.
- 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese For layering and topping.
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Adds a nutty flavor.
- 1 large Egg Helps bind the cheese mixture.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley, chopped For flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano For flavor.
For the Lasagna Layers
- 12-14 noodles Lasagna noodles Regular or no-boil.
- Extra mozzarella cheese For topping To create a gooey top layer.
Instructions
- Prepare the meat sauce by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until soft.
- Add ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Stir until browned, then drain excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce. Season with basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 30-40 minutes.
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of noodles.
- Layer half of the meat sauce, half of the béchamel sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers.
- Finish with a final layer of noodles topped with remaining meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the lasagna cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Authentic Italian lasagna is a labor of love that combines fresh ingredients and traditional techniques for a comforting dish.