Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that has conquered the entire world. With layers of pasta, sauce, cheese and filling, it is a perfect option for gathering the family around the table.
You will learn a complete lasagna recipe, with all the details, from the ingredients until the preparation method. In addition, we will explore the benefits of this dish, give tips to make it even tastier and present a practical table to facilitate your planning
Ingredients for the Complete Lasagna Recipe
To prepare a delicious lasagna, it is important to have all the ingredients fresh and quality. Below, we list what you will need:
For the Meat Sauce:
- 500g ground meat (can be beef, pork or a mixture of both)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can of tomato sauce (400g)
- 1 grated carrot
- 1 cup of red wine (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 bay leaf
For the White Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons of wheat flour
- 2 cups of milk
- Nutmeg to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other Ingredients:
- 1 package of lasagna pasta (pre-cooked or traditional)
- 200g sliced mozzarella
- 100g sliced ham
- 1 cup of grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of cottage cheese (optional)
How to Prepare Complete Lasagna
Now that you have separated all the ingredients, let's go to preparation method. Follow the steps below to ensure a perfect lasagna:
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- In a pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until golden.
- Add the ground beef and stir until it is well cooked.
- Add the grated carrot, tomato sauce, red wine (if using), bay leaf, oregano, salt and pepper.
- Let it cook on low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside.
2. Prepare the White Sauce:
- In a pan, melt the butter and add the wheat flour, stirring well to avoid lumps forming.
- Add the milk little by little, stirring constantly, until you obtain a smooth cream.
- Season with nutmeg, salt and pepper. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Lasagna:
- In a baking dish, start with a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
- Place a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of meat sauce, a layer of white sauce, slices of mozzarella, ham and a spoonful of cream cheese (if using).
- Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, finishing with white sauce and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
4. Bake the Lasagna:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for approximately 30 minutes, or until the lasagna is golden and bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for a Perfect Lasagna
- Choose the Right Pasta: If you prefer convenience, use pre-cooked pasta. For a more artisanal touch, opt for fresh pasta.
- Balance of Flavors: Don't overdo the salt, as the cheese is already salty. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
- Rest is Essential: Letting the lasagna rest for a few minutes after baking helps to firm up the layers and makes it easier to serve.
Useful Information Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 1 hour and 30 minutes |
| Performance | 8 servings |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Category | Main course |
| Best Follow-up | Red wine and green salad |
Conclusion
THE complete lasagna recipe is a dish that combines flavor, tradition and practicality. With the ingredients right and following the preparation method detailed, you can surprise your family and friends with an incredible lasagna. In addition, you can adapt the recipe to make it healthier or to suit your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy this classic of Italian cuisine!
