Authentic Traditional Lasagna Recipe – Perfect for Any Occasion
Discover the classic Italian comfort food with this hearty and satisfying lasagna recipe. Perfect for a family dinner, a cozy gathering, or a festive occasion, lasagna al forno brings together layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese for a truly indulgent experience. Let’s dive into the recipe that promises to be a crowd-pleaser at any table.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- Nutmeg, a pinch
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles, precooked or no-boil
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
Preparing the Meat Sauce:
- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef and pork to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned.
- Add Tomatoes and Season: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and red wine if using. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes to an hour, until the sauce thickens.
Making the Béchamel Sauce:
- Melt Butter: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for a couple of minutes without letting it brown.
- Whisk in Milk: Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens and reaches a simmer. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Assembling the Lasagna:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer the Ingredients: In a baking dish, start with a layer of meat sauce, followed by lasagna noodles. Cover the noodles with béchamel sauce, then sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cheeses.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Perfect Occasions for Lasagna al Forno
Family Dinners: Its comforting and hearty nature makes lasagna a favorite for family gatherings, offering a fulfilling meal that appeals to both adults and children.
Social Gatherings: Lasagna can be prepared ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for social events and potlucks, allowing you to enjoy your guests’ company without last-minute cooking stress.
Festive Celebrations: Whether it’s a holiday feast, a birthday, or a special occasion, lasagna brings a sense of celebration to the table, combining rich flavors with the joy of sharing.
Romantic Dinners: A smaller lasagna can turn a regular evening into a special date night, offering a homemade, loving touch to the meal.
This lasagna recipe not only delivers a delicious taste experience but also adapts to various occasions, making it a versatile and beloved dish. Enjoy the process of cooking and the pleasure of sharing this wonderful meal.