It's time for us to share a timeless classic that's sure to become a staple in your home: our classic Italian lasagna.This recipe combines rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and a touch of love, making it perfect for any occasion. Let’s get started on this delightful culinary journey!
Ingredients (Serves 4):
Lasagna sheets
Grated cheese
For the Ragu:
800g beef mince
1 onion, chopped
Carrots, diced
Celery stalks, diced
400g chopped tomatoes
500g passata
1 tbsp garlic, minced
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp pepper
1 beef stock cube
For the White Sauce:
100g flour
500ml milk
100g butter
50g parmesan
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Nutritional Values Per Serving:
The nutritional value will vary by the ingredients that you use, so please use this as a guideline. At the end of the recipe we have added some ways you can adjust this recipe to fit your personal nutrition goals, including how to increase or lower your calorie intake or increase the total protein per serving.
Calories: 613
Protein: 51g
Fat: 24.9g
Carbs: 42.3g
Instructions
1. Sauté the Onions and Beef:
Start by gently cooking your chopped onions in a large pan until they’re soft and translucent. Add the minced beef and cook until it’s browned and fragrant, filling your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma.
2. Add Vegetables and Seasonings:
Stir in the diced carrots and celery, followed by the garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, paprika, and pepper. Allow these to cook together, releasing their wonderful flavors.
3. Add Tomatoes and Stock:
Pour in the chopped tomatoes, passata, and crumble in the beef stock cube. Stir well and leave to simmer on low heat until the ragu thickens into a rich, hearty sauce.
4. Prepare the White Sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour, creating a smooth paste. Slowly add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir in the parmesan cheese until you have a creamy, luscious white sauce.
5. Layer the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). In an oven-proof dish, begin layering with lasagna sheets, followed by a generous spread of ragu, and then a layer of white sauce. Repeat these layers until you reach the top of your dish, finishing with a final layer of white sauce.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the lasagna in the oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Sprinkle a layer of grated cheese over the top and return to the oven until it melts to perfection.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes. Cut it into portions and allow it to rest for another 10 minutes to keep the layers defined and prevent it from falling apart.
8. Enjoy with Sides:
Serve this delectable lasagna with a side of garlic bread and your favorite salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
Variations:
Increase Your Calories:
Add extra layersUse more beef mince or higher fat beef
Use full fat dairy options
Decrease Your Calories:
Use low fat beef mince
Reduce the amount of cheese
Use low-fat dairy options
Increase the vegetable:beef ratio
Increase Your Protein:
Increase the amount of beef per serving
Incorporate quinoa or lentils
Creating a dish like this Classic Italian Lasagna is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing warmth and comfort to your table. The combination of robust flavors and creamy textures is sure to make this recipe a beloved favorite in your household. We hope this lasagna brings joy to your family dinners and inspires you to explore more wholesome, delicious meals.
