Lasagna Recipe

This homemade lasagna recipe combines creamy béchamel, hearty meat sauce, and layers of cheese for the ultimate comfort dish. Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with rich, satisfying flavors in every bite.

There’s something undeniably magical about a warm, bubbling tray of lasagna emerging from the oven. The layers of rich, meaty sauce, silky béchamel, tender pasta, and melted cheese create a harmony of flavors and textures that are hard to beat. This recipe doesn’t just give you lasagna—it gives you a masterpiece that will have your family and guests reaching for seconds (and maybe thirds).

Lasagna is the epitome of comfort food. It’s the dish that graces holiday tables, Sunday dinners, and cozy nights when you need something satisfying and indulgent. This variation, featuring béchamel sauce instead of ricotta, takes traditional lasagna to a whole new level of creamy perfection.

What Makes This Lasagna Recipe Special

Lasagna has Italian roots and a rich history. Traditional versions often vary by region, but the idea of layering pasta with sauces, cheese, and meat is universally loved. This version stands out by incorporating béchamel sauce—a French-inspired addition that’s creamy, smooth, and perfectly complements the robust tomato-based meat sauce.

You might be familiar with classic ricotta-based lasagna, but béchamel brings a lighter, silkier texture to the table. This recipe strikes a balance between traditional Italian flavors and a twist that feels gourmet yet approachable.

If you love dishes that combine bold flavors with a touch of elegance, you might also want to check out this Lamb Ragu D’Rose Mary recipe or the delightful Crookie Recipe, both of which pair beautifully with hearty meals.

Ingredients Breakdown

The quality of ingredients makes all the difference in lasagna. Let’s dive into the essentials and why they matter:

Ground Beef and Italian Sausage

A mix of ground beef and Italian sausage creates a flavorful, hearty meat sauce. The sausage brings a touch of spice, while the beef provides richness. Go for freshly ground meat if you can—this makes a noticeable difference in taste.

Onion and Garlic

These aromatic staples are the backbone of any great sauce. Use fresh, finely chopped onions and minced garlic for the best results. Their natural sweetness balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

Crushed Tomatoes and Tomato Paste

For the sauce, canned crushed tomatoes deliver a robust flavor, while tomato paste adds depth and body. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making your own tomato base using fresh tomatoes.

For more ideas on making great tomato-based recipes, check out this Bertucchi Sausage Soup Recipe.

Butter, Flour, and Milk (for Béchamel)

Béchamel sauce is all about simplicity. Butter and flour form the roux, while milk transforms it into a creamy, luxurious sauce. A pinch of nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that ties it all together.

Lasagna Noodles

Traditional lasagna noodles work best here. Whether you opt for oven-ready or classic noodles that require boiling, the goal is perfectly cooked pasta that holds up well during layering.

If you’re in the mood for a lighter pasta option, consider this Mei and Kyong Egg Fried Rice recipe for another satisfying carb fix.

Why You’ll Love This Lasagna

This dish is a showstopper for any occasion. Its rich flavors make it perfect for Christmas dinners, family gatherings, or even as a celebratory weekend treat.

The creamy béchamel sauce ensures every bite is luscious without being overwhelming. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests with a dish that looks and tastes like it came from an upscale Italian restaurant.

For other impressive dishes to complement your meal, consider adding a side of Captain D’s Slaw or Air Fryer Crunchy Cream Potatoes to the menu.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lasagna

1. Make the Meat Sauce

Start by sautéing chopped onions and garlic in a bit of olive oil. Once softened, add the ground beef and sausage. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat as it cooks.

Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pro Tip: Simmering the sauce longer enhances its flavor. If time permits, let it cook for up to an hour for a deeper taste.

2. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about a minute to remove the raw taste. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. Add a pinch of nutmeg for a classic touch.

3. Cook the Lasagna Noodles

If using classic noodles, boil them in salted water until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.

4. Layer the Lasagna

The magic of lasagna lies in the layering. Here’s how to do it:

1. Start with Sauce: Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. This prevents the noodles from sticking and adds flavor from the very start.

2. First Layer of Noodles: Lay down a single layer of lasagna noodles. Make sure they slightly overlap for a sturdy base.

3. Add Béchamel and Meat Sauce: Spoon béchamel sauce over the noodles, spreading evenly. Follow with a generous scoop of meat sauce.

4. Sprinkle Cheese: Top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of parmesan for extra flavor.

5. Repeat: Continue layering in the same order—noodles, béchamel, meat sauce, cheese—until you’ve used up all the ingredients. End with a layer of meat sauce topped with a final blanket of cheese.

Pro Tip: Press down lightly after each layer to compact the lasagna for better slicing later.

5. Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the lasagna tightly with aluminum foil (to prevent the cheese from burning) and bake for 25 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling. Let the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.

Tips for a Perfect Lasagna Every Time

1. Let It Rest: Resting the lasagna after baking ensures clean slices and prevents the layers from falling apart.

2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and high-quality cheese elevate the flavor profile significantly.

3. Customize the Layers: Add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted zucchini between the layers for a veggie twist.

For more unique ideas, try pairing this lasagna with Tippins Cornbread or Chatelaine Smoked Salmon Roll-On for an unforgettable meal.

Why This Lasagna Is a Crowd-Pleaser

This dish shines during gatherings and celebrations because it’s:

• Easy to make ahead and reheat without losing its flavor.
• Perfectly balanced between creamy béchamel and hearty meat sauce.
• A proven crowd-favorite that satisfies even picky eaters.

Whether it’s for Christmas dinner or a casual family night, this lasagna fits the bill. It pairs wonderfully with a light salad, a side of Zamorano Buns, and a glass of red wine.

Storage and Reheating

1. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing: Assemble the lasagna, then freeze it (unbaked) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking as directed.
3. Reheating: Cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Pro Tip: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a quick and convenient meal.

Pairing Suggestions and Extras

For an authentic Italian experience, serve this lasagna with:

• A crusty baguette or Cunetto Garlic Cheese Bread.
• A side of Easy Jhol-Like Sauce for dipping.
• Dessert options like Heaven and Hell Sheet Cake or Strawberry Snickerdoodle Cookies.

Homemade Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce

A rich, creamy, and flavorful lasagna recipe that combines classic Italian flavors with a unique béchamel twist. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb ground Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 lb lasagna noodles
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add ground beef and sausage, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens. Stir in nutmeg and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil lasagna noodles according to package instructions (if not oven-ready) and set aside.
5. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Add a layer of noodles, followed by meat sauce, béchamel, and shredded cheese. Repeat layers, finishing with a top layer of béchamel and cheese.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

15 minutes prep time with 40 minutes cook time.

Serves 6 and contains approximately 520 calories per serving.

Italian, Comfort Food / Dinner, Main Dish

Rated 4.9 by 178 reviewers.

Recipe Tags: homemade lasagna, lasagna recipe, béchamel sauce lasagna, Italian comfort food, layered pasta dish

Published by: Show Recipe