Ingredients and Weight:
- Lasagna noodles: 1 pound
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Onion, chopped: 1 medium
- Garlic, minced: 3 cloves
- Ground beef: 1 pound
- Italian sausage, removed from casing: 1 pound
- Crushed tomatoes: 28 ounces
- Tomato paste: 2 ounces
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dried basil: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Béchamel sauce:
- Butter: 3 tablespoons
- All-purpose flour: 3 tablespoons
- Whole milk: 3 cups
- Parmesan cheese, grated: 1 cup
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded: 1 pound
- Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, for garnish (optional)
Preparation Time:
30 minutes
Cooking Time:
1 hour 30 minutes
Difficulty Level:
2 (Simple)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add ground beef and sausage to the skillet and brown. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until sauce has thickened.
- To make the béchamel sauce, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese.
- In a large baking dish, spread 1/3 cup of meat sauce. Top with 1/2 of the lasagna noodles. Spread with 1/2 of the béchamel sauce. Repeat layers.
- Top with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese (optional).
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let stand for 15 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information:
Serving size: 1 piece
- Calories: 560
- Fat: 25 grams
- Protein: 35 grams
- Carbohydrates: 50 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
Dish Characteristics:
- Rich and flavorful
- Layers of al dente pasta, meaty sauce, and creamy béchamel
- Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan for a delightful crunch
- Perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal
User Comments:
- "This lasagna is absolutely delicious! The flavors are so well-balanced and the textures are perfect."
- "I've tried many lasagna recipes before, but this one is by far the best. It's so easy to make and the results are always amazing."
- "I love that this recipe uses traditional ingredients and techniques. It really delivers on the authentic Italian taste."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Do not overcook the lasagna noodles, as they will become mushy.
- If you don't have Italian sausage, you can use ground pork or beef instead.
- To make the lasagna ahead of time, assemble it and bake it up to the point of adding the mozzarella cheese. Let it cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, bring to room temperature and top with mozzarella cheese. Bake for 30-45 minutes, or until heated through.
