Lasagna is a quintessential Italian comfort food known for its layers of rich flavors and textures. This classic beef lasagna recipe combines hearty Bolognese sauce, creamy béchamel, and layers of tender pasta sheets, all baked to perfection. Follow this detailed guide to create a memorable lasagna that will delight your family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup (120ml) red wine (optional)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons (60g) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 3 cups (720ml) whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish