Authentic Italian Lasagna Recipe A Taste of Italy at Home

Authentic Italian Lasagna Recipe: A Taste of Italy at Home

Lasagna, a beloved Italian classic, is more than just a dish—it’s a symbol of comfort, family gatherings, and rich culinary tradition. This layered pasta masterpiece combines creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that are sure to impress. Here’s an authentic Italian lasagna recipe to bring the taste of Italy to your table.

Ingredients

For the Bolognese Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, finely diced
1 celery stalk, finely diced
500g ground beef
300g ground pork
1 cup red wine (optional but recommended)
800g canned crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bechamel Sauce:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk, warmed
A pinch of nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

12 sheets of fresh or store-bought lasagna pasta
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bolognese Sauce:

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add ground beef and pork. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon.
Pour in red wine (if using) and simmer until reduced by half.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally for a richer flavor.

2. Make the Bechamel Sauce:

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add flour and whisk until it forms a smooth paste (roux). Cook for 1-2 minutes.
Gradually add warm milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and cook until thickened.
Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

3. Cook the Pasta Sheets:

If using fresh pasta, no pre-cooking is needed. For dried pasta, cook according to package instructions until al dente.

4. Assemble the Lasagna:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of Bolognese sauce at the bottom.
Place a layer of lasagna sheets over the sauce.
Add a layer of Bolognese sauce, followed by Bechamel sauce, and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of Bechamel sauce and cheese on top.

5. Bake the Lasagna:

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.

6. Rest and Serve:

Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Tips for Perfect Lasagna

Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Allow the Bolognese sauce to simmer for longer to deepen its taste.
Resting the lasagna after baking ensures clean slices and prevents the layers from falling apart.

Enjoy your homemade Italian lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad. Buon appetito!