Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Ragu Bolognese
- In a large pot over medium heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sauté 2 chopped onions until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add 2 lbs of ground beef, breaking it up as it browns, then stir in 5 minced garlic cloves, and 3 beef bouillon cubes. Pour in ¾ cup of red wine, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced. Add 2 cans of canned tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons of dried oregano, 1 tablespoon of Italian mixed herbs, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ cup of water. Simmer this hearty sauce, covered, for 2 hours, then uncover and let it cook for another 30 minutes.
Béchamel Sauce
- While the ragu simmers, begin the béchamel sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in ¾ cup of all-purpose flour and a pinch of mustard powder, cooking for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant. Gradually whisk in 6 cups of milk, ensuring no lumps form, and continue whisking for 6-8 minutes until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat and set aside.
Lasagna Assembly
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF (180ºC). In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of the ragu bolognese on the bottom. Place a layer of dried lasagna sheets (enough to cover) followed by a generous portion of béchamel sauce. Repeat this layering process—ragu, noodles, béchamel—until you have utilized all ingredients, finishing with a layer of béchamel.
Bake
- Top the assembled lasagna with ½ cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack, ½ cup of mozzarella cheese, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. Allow the lasagna to sit for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving, letting the flavors meld perfectly.
Nutrition
Notes
For convenience, assemble your lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake for an additional 15 minutes if cold from the fridge. Enjoy customizing with veggies or alternative proteins for healthier versions.
