Step 1: Prepare the Bolognese Sauce
- Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef and pork to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon.
- Deglaze and Simmer: Add the red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add the tomato sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer on low heat for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Step 2: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce
- Melt Butter and Add Flour: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for about 2 minutes until smooth.
- Gradually Add Milk: Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Season: Add grated nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layering: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, start with a layer of Bolognese sauce, then a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of béchamel and a generous sprinkle of both Parmesan and optional mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
- Rest: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Lasagna Bolognese
- Make Ahead: Both the Bolognese and béchamel sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making assembly quicker.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it’s crucial for a well-set lasagna.
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality tomatoes and meat for the best flavor in your Bolognese sauce.
Enjoy the process of making this Lasagna Bolognese, and savor the rich, comforting layers of flavor it delivers!