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Exquisite Homemade Lasagna: A Classic Italian Delight

Lasagna, a cherished traditional Italian dish, harmonizes layers of tender pasta sheets, richly seasoned meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and a generous sprinkling of cheese, baked to golden perfection. Here’s an authentic recipe to create this flavorful culinary masterpiece right in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Meat Sauce (Ragù):

• 500g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 400g canned crushed tomatoes

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 carrot, finely diced

• 1 celery stalk, finely diced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 150 ml red wine (optional)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Fresh basil or oregano

Béchamel Sauce:

• 60g butter

• 60g all-purpose flour

• 750 ml whole milk, warmed

• Nutmeg, freshly grated

• Salt and freshly ground white pepper

Assembly:

• 400g fresh or dried lasagna sheets

• 200g grated mozzarella cheese

• 100g grated Parmesan cheese

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until tender, about 5 minutes.

2. Add ground meat, cooking until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.

3. Pour in red wine, if using, and simmer until most liquid evaporates.

4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and herbs. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour, cooking for about 2 minutes, until a smooth paste forms (roux).

2. Gradually whisk in warm milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.

3. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with nutmeg, salt, and white pepper. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a greased ovenproof baking dish.

3. Layer pasta sheets, then meat sauce, followed by béchamel, and sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

4. Repeat layers, finishing with a final generous layer of béchamel topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Lasagna

1. Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for about 25 minutes.

2. Remove foil, and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

3. Allow lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, making it easier to slice and serve neatly.

Serving Suggestion

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley, accompanied by crusty bread and a side of fresh salad tossed in vinaigrette for a truly delightful meal.

Enjoy the pleasure of creating and savoring a dish that's been loved for generations. Buon appetito!