Introduction: Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Italy with our Classic Italian Lasagna recipe. This dish is a symphony of flavors, layering rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and tender pasta, all topped with a golden, cheesy crust. Perfect for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this lasagna will transport your taste buds straight to an Italian grandmother’s kitchen.
Ingredients:
- For the Meat Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 2 cans (14 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and white pepper, to taste
- Additional Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
- Add ground beef and pork, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine, basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Make the Béchamel Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour, whisking continuously for 2 minutes.
- Gradually add milk, continuing to whisk to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Season with nutmeg, salt, and white pepper. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer with 4 lasagna noodles, followed by more meat sauce, and a layer of béchamel sauce.
- Sprinkle with a third of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of cheeses.
- Bake the Lasagna:
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.
- Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Conclusion: Your Classic Italian Lasagna is now ready to be savored. Each bite is a testament to the timeless charm of Italian cooking, bringing a piece of Italy to your dining table. Serve this hearty, comforting dish with a side salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal. Buon appetito!
