Description
A comforting Bolognese Lasagna with layers of rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and tender pasta, perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles (no-boil or regular)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1.5 lb ground beef
- 1 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups whole milk
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup grated Parmesan
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery and cook until softened, about 8 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Add ground beef and break it apart; cook until browned.
- Pour in the wine (if using) and simmer until mostly evaporated.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Reduce heat and simmer gently for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and deepen in flavor.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook, whisking, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Season with salt and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of Bolognese sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Place a layer of noodles, then a layer of sauce, dollops of ricotta, a drizzle of béchamel, and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Repeat layers twice more, finishing with béchamel and a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil (tent so cheese doesn’t stick) and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing to help it set.
Notes
Use room-temperature ricotta for easier spreading. Let lasagna rest after baking for clean slices.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
