LASAGNE RECIPE

Feast of Layers: Classic Lasagne Recipe

Embark on a culinary journey as we delve into the heartwarming world of lasagne, a dish that boasts layers of flavor and tradition. Our Classic Lasagne Recipe is a testament to the timeless appeal of this Italian masterpiece, where sheets of pasta intermingle with rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese. Join us in the kitchen as we guide you through the meticulous steps of creating a lasagne that not only satisfies the taste buds but also fills your home with the aroma of a comforting, homemade meal.

Ingredients:

For the Meat Sauce:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans (28 ounces each) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Béchamel Sauce:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and white pepper to taste

Other Ingredients:

  • 12 lasagne noodles, cooked according to package instructions
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage until cooked through. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  2. Cook the Lasagne Noodles: Cook the lasagne noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously until a smooth paste forms. Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, nutmeg, salt, and white pepper. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
  4. Assemble the Lasagne: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, layer the bottom with a thin coat of meat sauce. Place a layer of cooked lasagne noodles on top. Spread a portion of the meat sauce over the noodles, followed by a generous drizzle of béchamel sauce. Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a cheese layer on top.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Cover the lasagne with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  6. Let it Rest: Allow the lasagne to rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes for easier serving.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the lasagne with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Vegetarian Twist: For a meatless version, substitute the meat sauce with a mix of sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
  • Spinach Addition: Layer fresh spinach leaves between the lasagne noodles for a pop of color and added nutrients.
  • Ricotta Layer: Introduce a layer of ricotta cheese mixed with an egg and chopped fresh herbs for a creamy variation.
  • Seafood Surprise: Experiment with a seafood lasagne by incorporating layers of cooked shrimp or crab meat.

Keto Versions and Low-Carb Version:

Keto Version:

  • Zucchini Noodles: Replace traditional lasagne noodles with thinly sliced zucchini for a keto-friendly option.
  • Almond Flour Béchamel: Use almond flour in place of all-purpose flour in the béchamel sauce for a low-carb alternative.
  • Mozzarella and Parmesan: Opt for full-fat mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to meet keto dietary requirements.
  • Ground Turkey: Substitute ground beef and Italian sausage with ground turkey for a leaner keto version.

Low-Carb Version:

  • Cauliflower Béchamel: Create a béchamel sauce using cauliflower puree as a base to reduce the carb content.
  • Eggplant Layers: Replace lasagne noodles with thinly sliced and grilled eggplant for a low-carb twist.
  • Ground Chicken: Use ground chicken instead of beef and sausage for a lower-fat, lower-carb alternative.
  • Greek Yogurt Topping: Mix Greek yogurt with herbs and garlic as a topping instead of béchamel for a low-carb variation.

As you take your first forkful of our Classic Lasagne, you’ll be transported to a place where each layer tells a story of tradition, love, and the joy of shared meals. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its taste but in the versatility that allows you to tailor it to your preferences, whether you’re following a keto lifestyle, exploring low-carb options, or savoring the timeless classic. So, gather your ingredients, layer by layer, and let the aromas of a homemade lasagne fill your kitchen. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of the culinary artistry that brings people together.