Lasagna Bolognese Recipe is a classic Italian dish that combines layers of rich Bolognese sauce, creamy béchamel, and tender pasta sheets, all baked to perfection. This comforting and hearty meal is perfect for gatherings and special occasions, providing a delicious, home-cooked experience that will impress. The slow-cooked Bolognese sauce, made with a blend of ground beef and pork, vegetables, and a touch of wine, creates a deep, savoury flavour that melds beautifully with the creamy béchamel sauce and the pasta.
Making lasagna Bolognese is a labour of love, but the results are well worth it. While it requires some time and effort to prepare, the steps are straightforward, and the outcome is a sumptuous, multi-layered, comforting, and elegant dish. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special event, this lasagna will be a memorable and satisfying centrepiece.
Ingredients:
For the Bolognese Sauce:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ground beef
1 pound ground pork
1 cup whole milk
1 cup dry white wine
2 cups crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 bay leaf
For the Béchamel Sauce:
5 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk, warmed
Pinch of ground nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
12 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package instructions)
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes.
Add the ground beef and pork, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Pour in the milk and simmer until it has evaporated, then add the white wine and simmer until reduced by half.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Remove the bay leaf before assembling the lasagna.
Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 2 minutes until it turns golden.
Gradually add the warmed milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens and comes to a simmer. Add the nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few more minutes until the sauce is smooth and thick. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of Bolognese sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top.
Spread a layer of Bolognese sauce over the noodles, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce. Sprinkle a handful of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the béchamel.
Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of béchamel sauce topped with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Serve:
Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of red wine.
Serve with garlic bread for a complete Italian feast.
For a lighter option, accompany with steamed vegetables.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 450
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 3g
History
Lasagna has a rich history dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, but the modern version we know today, especially Lasagna Bolognese, hails from the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. This dish traditionally features layers of pasta, meat sauce,
FAQs
Q: Can I make the lasagna ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftover lasagna?
A: Absolutely. Lasagna freezes well and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I use store-bought Bolognese sauce?
A: While homemade Bolognese sauce offers the best flavor, you can use store-bought sauce to save time. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Q: What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
A: Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano can be good substitutes for Parmesan.
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