Meat Lasagna

Lasagna with Meat - A Delicacy for All Ages

Who hasn't been seduced by the delicious aroma of a freshly baked meat lasagna? This classic dish, enriched with layers of meat, creamy sauces, and fluffy pasta, is perfect for any occasion. Whether it's a family dinner or a party with friends, lasagna is always a winning choice. Let's explore together how to prepare this delicacy step by step, bringing a touch of love and creativity to every layer.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:

For the filling:
- 1 kg ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor)
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 5 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 200 ml beef broth (or water, but broth adds extra flavor)
- 30 g mozzarella, diced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 200 g grated mozzarella (for topping)
- 1 package pre-cooked lasagna sheets (like Barilla)

For the béchamel sauce:
- 30 g butter
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 800 ml milk (preferably whole for a creamier texture)
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
- 1 Knorr chicken cube (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)

For the tomato sauce:
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (in juice, blended)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- Oregano, salt, and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon raw sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)

A Brief History

Lasagna has deep roots in culinary tradition, with some sources suggesting its origins date back to antiquity. Over the centuries, this dish has evolved and been reinterpreted in different cultures, but its essence remains the same: a comforting, hearty dish full of flavors.

Preparation Techniques

1. Preparing the meat filling:
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground meat and cook, stirring frequently, until browned and well done.

Helpful tips: Choose quality meat for better flavor. If using beef, opt for a ratio of 80% lean meat and 20% fat for a juicy result.

2. Adding the ingredients:
To the meat mixture, add the tomato paste, broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Finally, add the diced mozzarella and flour, mixing well to thicken the filling. Cook for another 5 minutes.

3. Preparing the béchamel sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the flour and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until golden. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add the Knorr cube, if using, and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5 minutes until thickened.

4. Preparing the tomato sauce:
In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil and sauté the garlic for a few seconds. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for a few minutes. Add the sugar to reduce the acidity of the tomatoes.

5. Assembling the lasagna:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a rectangular baking dish, add a ladle of tomato sauce, followed by a ladle of béchamel sauce. Place a layer of lasagna sheets, followed by the meat filling, then add more tomato and béchamel sauce. Continue layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of pasta covered with sauces.

6. Baking:
Bake the lasagna in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After this time, remove the dish and add grated mozzarella on top. Return to the oven for another 10 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden.

Serving

Lasagna is delicious served hot, alongside a fresh green salad and a glass of red wine. A personal recommendation is to add a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for an extra flavor boost and an elegant appearance.

Possible Variations

- Vegetarian lasagna: Replace the meat with vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or eggplant. Add ricotta cheese between layers for a creamy taste.
- Fish lasagna: Use white fish fillets, such as cod or salmon, enriched with cream sauce instead of béchamel.
- Pesto lasagna: Add pesto sauce between layers for a unique and fresh flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use uncooked lasagna sheets? Yes, but make sure to add more sauce to help cook them.
- How can I make lasagna lighter in calories? Use lean meat, low-fat cheese, and skim milk for the béchamel sauce.
- What is the best way to store lasagna? You can keep it in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze it. Make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap.

Nutritional Benefits

Lasagna is an excellent source of protein from meat and cheese, while the tomato sauces provide valuable antioxidants. By adding vegetables, you can increase fiber and vitamin intake. Moreover, it is a hearty dish, perfect for satisfying hunger.

In conclusion, meat lasagna is more than just a recipe – it is a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. With each layer, you are not only building a delicious dish but also creating unforgettable memories. So, get cooking and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!