Lasagna Bolognese

For the Béchamel Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 tablespoons flour
  • 3 cups milk (warm)
  • Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg

Other Ingredients:

  • 12 lasagna sheets (use fresh or no-boil lasagna noodles for ease)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Make the Bolognese Sauce:

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant (about 5-7 minutes).
  • Add the ground beef (and pork if using) to the pot. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
  • Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 2 minutes to develop flavor.
  • Add the wine (if using) and let it simmer until reduced by half.
  • Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth, and add the oregano, basil, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Simmer the sauce on low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.

2. Make the Béchamel Sauce:

  • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes, until it turns a light golden color.
  • Slowly pour in the warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce, stirring, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes).
  • Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Set aside.

3. Assemble the Lasagna:

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of Bolognese sauce on the bottom to prevent the noodles from sticking.
  • Add a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of Bolognese sauce, a layer of béchamel, and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  • Repeat the layers until you’ve used all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of béchamel and cheese on top.

4. Bake:

  • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
  • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

5. Serve:

  • Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
  • Garnish with fresh basil, and serve warm.

Tips:

  • If you like a richer sauce, simmer the Bolognese longer to intensify the flavor.
  • You can prepare the Bolognese sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble the lasagna.

This Lasagna Bolognese is layered with love and flavor, making it the perfect hearty dish to enjoy with family and friends.