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Lasagna Bolognese

Hearty Lasagna Bolognese for Cozy Family Gatherings

This Lasagna Bolognese is a rich, comforting dish perfect for family gatherings, featuring layers of homemade Bolognese sauce and creamy béchamel.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

Bolognese Sauce
  • 7 cups homemade Bolognese sauce Store any leftovers for future meals.
  • 6 ounces pancetta, diced Adds depth of flavor to the Bolognese.
  • 1 pound ground sirloin (90/10) Provides a lean protein base.
  • 1 pound ground Italian sausage Adds a savory, herby kick.
  • 1 onion, chopped Essential aromatic for flavor base.
  • 2 carrots, chopped Adds sweetness to the sauce.
  • 2 ribs celery, chopped Complements the other aromatics.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 6 oz can tomato paste Thickens and intensifies tomato flavor.
  • 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes Provides acidity and richness.
  • 1.5 cups medium-bodied red wine Infuses depth into the sauce.
  • 2 leaves bay leaves Infuses flavor during simmering.
  • Kosher salt & freshly cracked pepper Essential for seasoning to taste.
Béchamel Sauce
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter Provides richness and moisture.
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Acts as thickening agent for béchamel.
  • 4 cups whole milk, warmed Creates the creamy base of the sauce.
  • 1/8 teaspoon fresh nutmeg Adds warm, aromatic notes.
  • 2.5 cups freshly grated Parmesan Enhances flavor with a savory bite.
For Assembly
  • 20 sheets egg lasagna noodles Essential for structure; fresh is ideal.
  • 16 ounces fresh mozzarella, diced Brings gooey texture to the layers.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Used for sautéing vegetables to enhance flavor.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium saucepan
  • 9x13 baking dish
  • Food processor

Method
 

Bolognese Sauce Preparation
  1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté pancetta until crispy, then remove and set aside. In a food processor, finely chop onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. In the same pot, brown ground sirloin and Italian sausage over low heat without browning. Mix in the minced vegetables, then add tomato paste, pour in red wine, and scrape up any brown bits. Stir in crushed tomatoes, 1 cup of milk, bay leaves, and cooked pancetta. Simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
Noodle Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook lasagna noodles until al dente, about 4 minutes. Drain the noodles well, then gently toss them with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set the noodles aside while you prepare the béchamel sauce.
Béchamel Sauce Preparation
  1. In a medium saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in flour and cook for about 2 minutes until it forms a roux. Gradually add warmed whole milk, constantly whisking until the mixture thickens, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in freshly grated nutmeg and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Lasagna Assembly
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9x13 baking dish, spread a layer of béchamel sauce at the bottom. Layer on cooked lasagna noodles, followed by a generous portion of the Bolognese sauce, more béchamel, and a sprinkle of diced mozzarella. Repeat this layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of béchamel and a final sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Baking
  1. Cover the assembled lasagna with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes to set before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Leftover Lasagna Bolognese can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for three months. Perfect for those busy weeknights!

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