Italian Sausage and Mushroom Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound Italian sausage, ground
• 2 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 12 lasagna noodles (no boil)
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Preparation Time:

• 30 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 60 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
5. For the Béchamel sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
6. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
7. Spread 1 cup of the tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. Top with 4 lasagna noodles.
9. Spread half of the remaining tomato sauce over the noodles.
10. Top with half of the cooked sausage and mushroom mixture.
11. Spread half of the Béchamel sauce over the sausage mixture.
12. Repeat the layers.
13. Sprinkle the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses on top.
14. Bake for 60 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Fat: 15 grams
• Carbohydrates: 35 grams
• Protein: 20 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Savory and flavorful Italian lasagna
• Creamy and rich Béchamel sauce
• Hearty and satisfying
• Suitable for American taste

User Comments:

• "This lasagna was absolutely delicious! The flavors were perfect and the Béchamel sauce was a great addition."
• "I've made this lasagna several times and it's always a hit. My family loves it!"
• "This recipe was easy to follow and the lasagna turned out beautifully."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
• If desired, you can add other vegetables to this lasagna, such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers.