I love lasagna because it reminds me of famiy and warm evenings! every time i makeit, i remember ! the first time i tried it at my grandmothe’s, with the aroma of béchamel and spices filling the house…. my recipe is simple yet satisfying and the key is patience in the layers of pasta, sauce, and melted cheese that melts the heart!
Easy and delicious Italian lasagna Bolognese recipe -perfect for home cooking:
Introduction : lasagna Bolognese is one of the most famous Italian dishes, combining delicious layers of pasta, ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese, this recipe is perfect for family gatherings, meal prepping, or simply bringing warmth and comfort to your table.
Ingredients:
• 12 lasagna sheets (half-cooked)
• 500 g ground beef
• 1 large onion finely chopped
• 1 large carrot grated
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 2 cups of tomato sauce ( store-bought or homemade )
• 1 tbsp tomato paste.
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried basil
• salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup béchamel sauce ( store-bought or homemade).
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
•Step 1 : prepare the Bolognese filling:
Heat the oil : in a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat .
• Cook the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and grated carrot sauté until they , become soft and golden.
• Add the garlic 🧄: stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
• Brown the beef : add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula, cook until the beef is fully browned.
• Add sauces and spices :
– pour in the tomato sauce and add the tomato paste.
– Mix in the sugar, oregano, basil and bay leaf .
– season with salt and black pepper to taste.
• Simmer the sauce : Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, until the flavors meld together, add a bit of water if the sauce is too thick.
•Step 2 : assemble the lasagna:
1 prepare the baking dish: lightly grease a baking dish with oil or butter to prevent sticking
2 Layering :
• Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom of the dish.
• Place a layer of lasagna sheets over the sauce
• spread a layer of Bolognese sauce: followed by a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
• Repeat the layers: continue layering ( lasagna sheets, Bolognese sauce, cheese) until all ingredients are used.
•Final layer : the top layer should consist of béchamel sauce mozzarella and a sprinkle parmesan cheese for a golden, crispy crust.
• Step 3: bake the lasagna:
Preheat the oven : preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
Bake : place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top turns golden brown.
Broil for extra crispiness : if your oven has a grill or broil setting, turn it on for a few minutes to achieve a beautifully crispy and golden top.
• Step 4 : serving:
Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before cutting to help the layer set and make serving easier.
Serve: cut the lasagna into equal portions and serve hot, it pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.
Tips for perfect lasagna:
• Avoid overcooking the pasta : since the sheets are half-cooked, they will finish cooking in the oven with the sauces.
• fresh herbs for garnish: if you have fresh basil or parsley, sprinkle some on top of the lasagna after baking for added freshness and aroma.
• Make ahead option : you can prepare the lasagna a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake it when needed.
Serve hot and enjoy! 😘
✨ Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a cozy Italian night at home!