Lasagna

Lasagna: An Italian Delight Cooked with Love

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of Servings: 6

Treat yourself and your loved ones to an unforgettable culinary experience with this lasagna recipe, a dish that combines delicious layers of meat, aromatic sauces, and melted cheese. Lasagna is more than just a meal – it is a true symbol of hospitality and the joy of sharing special moments with loved ones. Let’s discover together the steps needed to create this delicacy!

Necessary Ingredients

For the Ragu Sauce:
- 2 medium onions
- 1/2 celery
- 2 carrots
- 500 g minced meat (mix of pork and beef)
- 250 g tomato sauce
- Spices (oregano, basil, salt, pepper)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (optional, but recommended for an extra kick)

For the Bechamel Sauce:
- 50 g butter
- 1 heaping tablespoon of white flour
- 250 ml milk
- Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:
- 1 package lasagna sheets (no-boil sheets)
- 300 g grated cheese

Step by Step: Preparing the Lasagna

1. Preparing the Ragu Sauce
The first step in creating this delicious lasagna is preparing the ragu sauce. Start by finely chopping the onion, celery, and carrots. These vegetables will add flavor and texture to your sauce.

Heat half a cup of olive oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become soft and slightly golden. This step is essential for developing the base flavors of the sauce.

Add the minced meat and stir continuously to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Continue cooking until the meat changes color and browns slightly.

Once the meat is almost cooked, add your favorite spices (oregano, basil, salt, pepper) and the tomato sauce. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you want a spicier taste, add the two tablespoons of hot sauce made from chili peppers, tomatoes, and celery. This will add extra flavor and a distinct aroma.

2. Preparing the Bechamel Sauce
In another pot, melt the butter over low heat. Once the butter is completely melted, add the flour and mix well to form a roux. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes, being careful not to burn it.

Start gradually adding the milk, constantly whisking to avoid lumps. Cook the sauce over low heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens. Finally, add salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assembling the Lasagna
In a deep baking dish, start assembling the lasagna. Grease the bottom of the dish with a few tablespoons of bechamel sauce, then lay down the first layer of lasagna sheets. Continue with a layer of ragu sauce, followed by a few tablespoons of bechamel sauce and a handful of grated cheese.

Repeat this process, alternating layers until all ingredients are used. The final layer will consist of lasagna sheets topped with bechamel sauce and a generous layer of grated cheese for a golden, crispy crust.

4. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 35 minutes, or until the surface is golden and cheese bubbles appear on top.

Serving Suggestions
Lasagna is served hot, cut into generous portions. It can be accompanied by a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. Additionally, a bottle of red wine pairs perfectly with the intense flavors of the ragu sauce.

Tips and Variations
- Meat Variations: If you prefer, you can use chicken or turkey instead of pork and beef.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with roasted vegetables or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian lasagna.
- Freezing: If you have leftover ragu sauce, don’t throw it away! It can be frozen and used for a pasta dish or even to prepare another lasagna.

Nutritional Benefits
This lasagna is an excellent source of protein due to the meat, but also vitamins from the vegetables. The cheese adds calcium, while the tomato sauce contains lycopene, an antioxidant known for its health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use lasagna sheets that require boiling?
Of course! If you prefer, you can use sheets that require boiling, just make sure to boil them according to the instructions on the package.

How can I enhance the flavor of the sauce?
Adding fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, at the end of preparing the ragu sauce can bring an extra freshness and flavor.

How long can I keep lasagna in the fridge?
Lasagna can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, and if you want to freeze it, make sure it is well covered to avoid freezer burn.

With each bite of this lasagna, you will enjoy a mix of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. Enjoy your meal!