Classic Lasagna with Béchamel
Lasagna is a dish that sparks joy in any home—it’s creamy, flavorful, and absolutely heartwarming! Imagine layers of tender pasta harmonizing with a rich meat sauce, all topped off with a velvety béchamel sauce and gooey cheese. This classic lasagna with béchamel is not just another meal; it’s an experience that will bring your family together around the dinner table. Interestingly, did you know that lasagna has been enjoyed for centuries, with roots tracing back to Ancient Greece? It’s fascinating how a simple dish can carry so much history and flavor!
Why should you try this recipe? Not only is it straightforward to whip up, but it also brings comfort to any weeknight meal or special gathering. If you love classic Italian dishes, you’ll find this recipe just as delightful as our famous spaghetti carbonara on the blog. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking this delightfully cheesy and satisfying dish that everyone will love!
What is Classic Lasagna with Béchamel?
Lasagna with béchamel—now, that’s a name that deserves a moment of appreciation! Have you ever wondered why it’s called “lasagna”? Legend has it that the name is derived from the Greek word “laganon,” referring to flat sheets of pasta. And who doesn’t love a dish that’s pretty much built to impress—layer after layer of deliciousness? They say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and I can assure you, this lasagna is a one-way ticket! So gather your ingredients and prepare to wow your family and friends with this comforting classic.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Lasagna with Béchamel:
There are three highlights that make this lasagna an absolute winner! First, it’s all about the layers—the combination of savory meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese creates an explosion of flavors that’ll leave everyone begging for seconds. Plus, making it at home is far more economical than ordering takeout, and you get to enjoy the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal. Lastly, the smooth béchamel sauce sets it apart from other lasagna recipes, elevating your dish to restaurant quality. If you love a good casserole, you’ll definitely want to explore our cheesy spinach lasagna recipe as well. So, why not dive into this delicious endeavor and try it yourself?
How to Make Classic Lasagna with Béchamel:
Quick Overview
This lasagna is simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious! With just a bit of time and effort, you will be rewarded with layers of flavor that everyone at the table will adore. In about 60 to 90 minutes, you can create a comforting meal perfect for gatherings or cozy family nights in.
Key Ingredients for Classic Lasagna with Béchamel:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt & black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1/2 cup red wine or beef broth (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (warm)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 9-12 lasagna noodles (pre-cooked or oven-ready)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned, draining any excess fat. Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar. If using, pour in the red wine or beef broth and let the mixture simmer for 20-30 minutes, until it has thickened. - Prepare the Bé Chamel Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour for 1-2 minutes until smooth. Gradually pour in the warm milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add salt and nutmeg, cooking until the sauce thickens. Finally, remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. - Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by spreading a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Then, add a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by more meat sauce, béchamel sauce, and a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with béchamel sauce and the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. - Bake & Serve:
Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the surface is golden and bubbly. Once baked, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm!
What to Serve Classic Lasagna with Béchamel With:
To enhance the delightful experience of your classic lasagna, you can serve it alongside a fresh garden salad dressed lightly with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. A side of garlic bread will complement the meal beautifully, offering a perfect way to scoop up any leftover sauce! Pair it with a light red wine, and you’ll have a complete Italian feast that your family will talk about for days!
Top Tips for Perfecting Classic Lasagna with Béchamel:
To make your lasagna perfect, consider these tips: For an extra rich flavor, add a layer of ricotta cheese mixed with an egg between the layers. If you’re using oven-ready noodles, remember to add an extra 1/2 cup of liquid to ensure they cook properly. And don’t forget to taste your sauces while cooking; adjusting seasonings is a chef’s secret to creating the tastiest meals!
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for later enjoyment. To store, simply place the lasagna in an airtight container or wrap it well in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or if you’ve frozen it, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Enjoy the comfort of this classic Italian dish again and again!
Now that you have all the ingredients and steps laid out, it’s time to roll up those sleeves and dive into making the ultimate classic lasagna with béchamel! Enjoy cooking and feasting on this delicious culinary treasure!
Classic Lasagna with Béchamel
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g ground beef (or a mix of beef)
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt & black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar optional
- 1/2 cup red wine or beef broth optional
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk warm
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 9-12 lasagna noodles pre-cooked or oven-ready
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until soft. Then, add the ground beef and cook until browned, draining any excess fat. Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar. If using, pour in the red wine or beef broth and let the mixture simmer for 20-30 minutes, until it has thickened.
- Prepare the Bé Chamel Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour for 1-2 minutes until smooth. Gradually pour in the warm milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Add salt and nutmeg, cooking until the sauce thickens. Finally, remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by spreading a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Then, add a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by more meat sauce, béchamel sauce, and a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with béchamel sauce and the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake & Serve:
- Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the surface is golden and bubbly. Once baked, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm!
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