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Homemade Lasagna casserole

Classic Homemade Lasagna

Lasagna is one of the most beloved dishes from Italian cuisine. A hearty, oven-baked meal layered with flavorful meat sauce, creamy cheese sauce, and tender pasta sheets. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this classic recipe delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 863 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 9 lasagna sheets
  • 1¼ cups grated cheese for topping

Meat Sauce

  • 5 oz bacon or pancetta (150 g)
  • 2 tbsp neutral oil
  • 14 oz minced meat (400 g)
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 1 carrot finely chopped
  • 1 stalk celery finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 cans canned tomatoes 400 g each, about 28 oz total
  • ¾ cup meat broth stock, or water (2 dl)
  • 2 tsp dried oregano

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 2½ cups milk (6 dl)
  • 5 tbsp grated Parmesan or other white cheese
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp ground pepper
  • 0.5 tsp nutmeg grated

Instructions
 

  • Make the meat sauce: Cut bacon or pancetta into small pieces. Heat oil in a hot pan and fry the bacon until golden. Add a bit more oil and brown the minced meat in batches over high heat. Lower the heat, add chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until soft and glossy. Make a well in the center of the pan, add a bit more oil, and fry the tomato paste for a couple of minutes to deepen its flavor. Add canned tomatoes, broth, and oregano. Simmer for at least 10 minutes until thickened.
  • Tip: For deeper flavor, simmer gently for up to 1½ hours, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Make the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan. Stir in flour and cook briefly to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring often, until thickened. Add the Parmesan and stir until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of nutmeg.
  • Assemble the lasagna: In a large ovenproof dish, layer in this order:
  • Meat sauce
  • Lasagna sheets
  • Cheese sauce
  • Repeat, finishing with lasagna sheets and a generous layer of cheese sauce. Sprinkle grated white cheese evenly over the top.
  • Bake: Place in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) and bake for 30–40 minutes until bubbling and golden. Test the pasta’s tenderness by piercing with a toothpick or knife.
  • Rest and serve: Let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a fresh green salad and crusty baguette.
Keyword casserole, easy, ground beef, pasta, tasty