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Homemade Lasagna

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A classic Italian dish of layered pasta, hearty meat sauce, cheese, and rich béchamel that’s perfect for family gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk (whole milk recommended)
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • Salt to taste
  • 9 lasagna noodles (no-boil preferred)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the meat sauce: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent for about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the ground beef, cooking until browned. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper, and simmer for 20 minutes.
  2. Prepare the béchamel sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, cooking for about 2 minutes. Gradually add the milk while whisking, until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in nutmeg and salt, then remove from heat.
  3. Cook the noodles: If using traditional lasagna noodles, boil according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay flat on parchment paper.
  4. Assemble the lasagna: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer three lasagna noodles over the sauce, then spread half of the ricotta cheese, a third of the béchamel, a layer of meat sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat layering, finishing with noodles, béchamel, remaining mozzarella, and Parmesan on top.
  5. Bake the lasagna: Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
  6. Cool and serve: Let the lasagna sit for at least 15 minutes before slicing to allow layers to set. Serve warm.

Notes

Let the lasagna rest before slicing for better serving. Consider varying cheese types for a unique twist.