Classic Homemade Lasagna an Italian Family Favorite
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction: The Ultimate Comfort Food Awaits
Fancy making a classic? Ever crave that warm, cheesy, meaty goodness? Our homemade lasagna recipe is here to answer your prayers.
Honestly, there's nothing quite like digging into a perfect slice of lasagna.
Quick Hook: What's not to love?
This lasagna recipe with ricotta cheese brings together layers of flavour. Imagine rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and perfectly cooked pasta.
This classic lasagna recipe is proper comfort food. It’s the Italian hug you didn't know you needed.
Brief Overview: An Italian Staple
Lasagna, deeply rooted in Italian tradition, is a dish meant for sharing. This Italian lasagna recipe is a labour of love.
It's a medium difficulty project, clocking in at about 1 hour 35 minutes total. This best lasagna recipe yields 8-10 generous servings.
Main Benefits: Hearty and Nutritious
Packed with protein and comfort, this dish feeds the soul. It’s perfect for Sunday dinners, gatherings, or a comforting meal on a chilly evening.
What makes this traditional lasagna recipe special? The authentic homemade lasagna flavor, and it just screams "family"!
Diving into Deliciousness
Now, let's talk ingredients. Each layer of this homemade lasagna is important. We're building a flavour castle, brick by delicious brick. Prepare to be transported to the heart of Italy.
Right, let’s get down to brass tacks! What’s needed to make this best lasagna recipe sing? Here's the lowdown on the ingredients and equipment for my go-to homemade lasagna recipe .
You know, the one that even my picky Aunt Mildred raves about!
Gear Up: Your Lasagna Arsenal
Don't worry, you don't need a fancy kitchen to make this lasagna recipe .
- A large skillet or Dutch oven. This is for the meat sauce.
- A 9x13 inch baking dish. Size matters!
- A whisk. Lumps in your bechamel? No thanks!
- Mixing bowls. For your cheese mixture and prepping ingredients.
That's all you need, really! If you don't have a Dutch oven, a big pot will do just fine. No fancy equipment is mandatory for this classic lasagna recipe .
The Star Players: Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s talk ingredients. I mean you can always use jarred sauce. but authentic homemade lasagna calls for a bit more love.
Main Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml). Go for extra virgin if you wanna be fancy.
- 1 medium onion, chopped (approx. 1 cup , 150g). Yellow or white is fine.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh is best, always!
- 1 pound ground beef (450g). 80/20 blend is great for flavor.
- 1/2 pound ground Italian sausage (225g). Sweet or hot, your call!. Remember removing the casings is key!
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional). For a little kick.
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (800g). high-quality makes a difference.
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce (425g).
- 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste (170g).
- 1 teaspoon salt.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (15g). Adds brightness!
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (115g).
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60g).
- 4 cups whole milk (950ml). Whole milk is key to a creamy bechamel.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper.
For the Cheese Filling:
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese (425g), whole milk or part skim. Drain it well!
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (30g). Freshly grated is the way to go.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper.
For Assembly:
- 1 pound lasagna noodles (450g), oven ready or regular. I love the oven ready kind.
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (300g). Low-moisture is best for browning!
Seasoning Notes
Oregano and basil are essential for that Italian flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes does add a lovely warmth.
You can use fresh herbs if you have them! A lasagna recipe with ricotta needs a good balance of herbs and spices.
Quality Indicators
The tomatoes and sausage really make or break this easy italian dinner idea . Look for good quality crushed tomatoes with a rich color, and get sausage from a butcher shop if you can.
There it is! Time to get cooking your homemade lasagna and enjoy a wonderful meal.
Cooking Method: Building Your Best Lasagna Recipe
Right then, let's dive into the heart of the matter: how to actually make this amazing homemade lasagna . It’s not as scary as it looks, honestly.
Think of it as posh layering building up deliciousness. I'll walk you through how to make an authentic homemade lasagna , brick by tasty brick.
Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row
- Essential mise en place : Chop your onion and garlic. Measure out your spices. Grate your cheese. Seriously, do it now.
- Time saving organisation tips: I get my ingredients prepped while the meat sauce is simmering. Multi tasking, innit?
- Safety reminders: Don't burn yourself on the hot sauce. It stings, trust me, I've been there!
step-by-step: The Classic Lasagna Recipe Process
- Meat sauce first. Sauté the onion and garlic. Brown the beef and sausage. Remember to drain the fat. No one likes a greasy lasagna.
- Stir in the herbs, tomatoes, sauce, and paste. Simmer for at least 30 minutes . Even better, an hour. The longer the better, like a good cuppa brewing.
- Béchamel time. Melt the butter, whisk in the flour, then slowly whisk in the milk. Keep whisking! No one wants lumpy béchamel. Stir in the nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the ricotta with the egg, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Taste it. Adjust the seasoning. It should be creamy, not bland. The secret to a lasagna recipe with ricotta is perfectly seasoned ricotta.
- Assemble! Sauce, noodles, ricotta, béchamel, mozzarella. Repeat. It’s like edible art! I usually do 3 layers .
- Bake it at 375° F ( 190° C) for 25 minutes covered, then 25 minutes uncovered. Until it’s bubbly and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165° F ( 74° C) .
- Let it rest for 10- 15 minutes before slicing. Seriously, this is important. Otherwise, it'll be a soupy mess. This Traditional Lasagna Recipe step is essential.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Lasagna
- Brown the meat well for a deeper flavour. Get some proper colour on it. Don't be shy!
- Don't overcook the noodles. They should be al dente if you're not using oven ready ones. Mushy lasagna is no bueno.
- To make-ahead, assemble the lasagna, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 15 minutes to the baking time. This Italian Lasagna Recipe is a guaranteed crowd pleaser and one of my favourite Easy Italian Dinner Ideas . Honestly, the homemade lasagna recipe is worth the effort. This Best Lasagna Recipe is a game changer.
Recipe Notes for Your Best Lasagna Recipe
Right then, so you're about to embark on the homemade lasagna journey? Fantastic! Here are a few things I've learned over the years, making what I think is the best lasagna recipe .
Honestly, these tips can make or break your lasagna experience.
Plating and Presentation: Show off your Homemade Lasagna !
Listen, we eat with our eyes first, you know? A slice of Italian Lasagna Recipe looks amazing on its own.
But, a little parsley garnish never hurt anyone. I've found that a sprinkle of fresh basil adds a pop of color too.
Serve it hot and bubbling. Oh my gosh, it’s heavenly. A side of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any sauce.
Or, you know, just dipping. You can never go wrong with that.
Storage Secrets: Keeping that Traditional Lasagna Recipe Fresh
Right, so you've made a huge classic lasagna recipe . And let’s be honest, you probably will. Trust me, lasagna always makes more than you think.
Let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in foil or cling film, or bung it into an airtight container.
It'll keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Freezing? Absolutely! Cut it into individual portions, wrap 'em up, and they'll be grand in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Then bake it in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until it's hot all the way through.
Tweaks and Twists: Your Lasagna Recipe Your Way
Fancy a change? I get it. Ditch the meat for a veggie version. Honestly, it’s lush. Use roasted vegetables like courgette, aubergine, and peppers.
They add a nice sweetness and make it a delightful Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta . Trying to be a bit healthier? Use whole wheat lasagna noodles.
Plus, you could use part skim ricotta cheese. Boom. And for a seasonal twist, butternut squash puree in the ricotta filling during autumn.
What a treat!
Nutrition Nutshell: Fueling Up with Your Authentic Homemade Lasagna
Right, let's talk grub. This homemade lasagna recipe is packed with protein. So, the meat and cheese help repair the body.
It has carbs to keep you going. The sauce is rich in vitamins from the tomatoes. A slice will give you roughly 550-650 calories.
That said, remember, this is an estimate.
Making a Lasagna with Bechamel Sauce doesn’t have to be daunting. You can absolutely nail this easy Italian dinner idea .
This is definitely one of the best lasagna recipe I’ve tried. Have a crack at it, and don’t be afraid to get stuck in! You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really have to make my own béchamel for this homemade lasagna recipe, or can I skip it?
While you could technically skip the béchamel, it adds a lovely creaminess that elevates the whole homemade lasagna recipe. It's the equivalent of using a proper Yorkshire pudding recipe for your Sunday roast it just makes everything better!
If you're short on time, some folks use a thin layer of ricotta as a substitute, but honestly, the béchamel is worth the extra effort.
My lasagna always comes out watery. What am I doing wrong?
Ah, the dreaded watery lasagna! First, make sure to drain any excess grease from your meat sauce after browning the meat. Also, avoid overcooking the noodles if you're not using oven ready ones; they'll release moisture as they bake.
Finally, letting the lasagna rest for at least 10-15 minutes after baking is absolutely key it allows the sauce to thicken and set up properly, a bit like letting a good cuppa tea steep!
Can I make this homemade lasagna recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Lasagna is a fantastic make-ahead dish. You can assemble the entire lasagna and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it's starting from cold. Alternatively, you can bake it completely and then reheat it later.
It’s perfect for a party, a bit like prepping a trifle the day before!
What are some fun variations I can try with this homemade lasagna recipe?
Get creative! For a vegetarian version, try swapping the meat sauce for roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers. You could also add some spinach or mushrooms to the ricotta cheese filling.
If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different cheeses, like provolone or fontina, for a unique flavor profile. It's all about putting your own stamp on it, just like choosing your favorite biscuits to dunk in your tea!
How should I store leftover lasagna? And how long will it last?
Leftover lasagna should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3-4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or the whole thing in the oven, covered with foil, until heated through.
Think of it as a ready meal waiting in the wings, perfect for when you fancy something comforting and delicious without any effort!
Is there a healthier way to enjoy this homemade lasagna recipe?
You can definitely lighten things up a bit! Use lean ground beef or turkey, part skim ricotta cheese, and whole wheat lasagna noodles for extra fiber. Load up on the vegetables in the sauce and consider using less mozzarella cheese.
Every little helps, a bit like opting for a digestive biscuit instead of a custard cream...sometimes!
Classic Homemade Lasagna An Italian Family Favor
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 550-650 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 30-35g |
| Fiber | 3-5g |