Lasagna

Here’s a classic lasagna recipe with layers of rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melty cheese:

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Classic Lasagna Recipe

🍝 Ingredients

For the meat sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 500g (1 lb) ground beef (or half beef, half pork)

• 800g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning

• Fresh basil (optional), chopped

For the béchamel (white sauce):

• 4 tbsp butter

• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 3 cups (750 ml) milk, warmed

• Pinch of nutmeg

• Salt and pepper to taste

Other:

• 9–12 lasagna noodles (no-boil or regular, depending on preference)

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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🧑‍🍳 Instructions

1. Make the meat sauce:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan. Add onion and cook until soft.

2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

3. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper.

5. Simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add basil at the end if using.

2. Prepare béchamel sauce:

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes (to form a roux).

3. Gradually whisk in warm milk until smooth.

4. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).

5. Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Set aside.

3. Assemble the lasagna:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce.

3. Add a layer of noodles, then meat sauce, then béchamel, and a sprinkle of mozzarella.

4. Repeat layers (typically 3 total), finishing with béchamel and mozzarella on top.

5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

4. Bake:

• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

• Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.

• Let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing.

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🔁 Optional Variations

• Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat sauce.

• Use ricotta instead of béchamel for a more American-style lasagna.

• Try plant-based meat or lentils for a vegetarian version.