Description
Experience the true essence of Italian comfort with this authentic lasagna recipe. By layering perfectly seasoned, slow-simmered beef bolognese with a silky smooth, velvety homemade béchamel sauce, this dish achieves a luxurious depth of flavor. Unlike versions that rely on ricotta, this traditional preparation ensures soft, distinct layers and a gorgeous golden-brown top. It is the perfect centerpiece for family gatherings, meticulously balanced to highlight the quality of artisanal ingredients without the need for alcohol or non-halal additions.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs 80/20 lean ground beef
1 box lasagna noodles (no-boil or traditional)
1 large onion, finely diced
2 medium carrots, finely diced
28 oz tomato passata
4 cups whole milk
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 lb mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
1 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Salt to taste
Dried oregano to taste
Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
Sauté diced onions and carrots in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until softened.
Add the ground beef and brown thoroughly, breaking up any large clumps with a wooden spoon.
Pour in the tomato passata, reduce heat to low, and simmer for sixty minutes, seasoning with salt and dried oregano.
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
Slowly whisk in the whole milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens into a smooth, velvety béchamel.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Assemble the lasagna in a baking dish by layering sauce, noodles, béchamel, mozzarella, and parmesan, repeating until ingredients are used.
Top with remaining cheese and bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Ensure your tomato passata is of high quality as it forms the base of the flavor profile. If using traditional boiled noodles, ensure they are slightly undercooked (al dente) before layering to prevent them from becoming mushy during the bake. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 45
- Cook Time: 90
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 95mg