Lasagna Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that layers rich Bolognese sauce with creamy béchamel and pasta sheets, all baked to perfection. This hearty and comforting dish is perfect for family gatherings or a special dinner. Follow this recipe to create an authentic Lasagna Bolognese that will delight your guests.
Ingredients:
For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 500g (1 lb) ground beef
- 500g (1 lb) ground pork
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 800g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup whole milk
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk, warmed
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Assembling:
- 12-15 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Making the Bolognese Sauce:
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Cook the Meat:
- Add the ground beef and pork to the pot. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Simmer the Sauce:
- Pour in the red wine and cook until it has mostly evaporated. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook gently for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Stir in the milk and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Making the Béchamel Sauce:
- Prepare the Roux:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly until the mixture is smooth and bubbly, about 2 minutes.
- Add Milk and Season:
- Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, continuing to whisk until the sauce thickens and comes to a simmer. Add a pinch of nutmeg and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
Assembling the Lasagna:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread a thin layer of Bolognese sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a third of the béchamel sauce over the noodles, followed by a third of the Bolognese sauce. Sprinkle with a third of the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers two more times, ending with a final layer of cheese.
- Bake the Lasagna:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Lasagna Bolognese is a rich and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of Italy to your table. With its layers of tender pasta, savory Bolognese sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese, this lasagna is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with a simple green salad and a glass of red wine for a complete Italian meal. Buon appetito!