In Italy, lasagna is not just a dish; it’s a symbol of rich culinary tradition, often served on special occasions and Sunday family gatherings. Revered for its layers of pasta, alternating with flavorful ragù, béchamel sauce, and Parmigiano-Reggiano, lasagna is a testament to the Italian dedication to slow cooking and robust flavors. Each region might have its own variation, reflecting local tastes and ingredients, but the respect for this dish is universal across the country. Italian lasagna is about balance and simplicity, allowing each layer to meld together into a harmonious and heartwarming meal that’s deeply rooted in the Italian way of life.
Lasagna Recipe:
Prep Time: 1 hour Cook Time: 45 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 3/4 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Béchamel sauce:
- 5 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk
- Nutmeg to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Make the Meat Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add ground beef, onion, and garlic, and cook until browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk, and cook, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce. Top with a layer of noodles, followed by ricotta cheese, mozzarella, béchamel sauce, and Parmesan. Repeat layers and finish with a generous layer of cheese.
- Bake:
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve the lasagna hot, allowing it to set for a few minutes before slicing. This dish is a comforting and filling meal, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. Its layers of flavor and texture make it a timeless favorite in Italian cuisine.