World’s Best Lasagna Recipe

Welcome to the World’s Best Lasagna Recipe

Get ready to experience the best lasagna ever! This recipe features layers of rich meat sauce and creamy Parmesan white sauce, topped with just the right amount of mozzarella cheese. No ricotta needed here. This classic dish is a timeless favorite, bringing together family and friends for a cozy meal. It’s like a warm hug in pasta form!

My mom’s lasagna has become legendary in our family. She perfected it through years of tweaks and tips from her Italian friends in New York City. The result? A dish that guarantees seconds, thirds, and requests for leftovers! Just look at that cheese!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and flavorful meat sauce that’s simmered to perfection.
• Creamy béchamel sauce that adds a luxurious texture without ricotta.
• Melty mozzarella that creates a delightful cheesy top layer.
• A comforting classic that brings everyone together at the table.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot
• Whisk
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon
• Oven

Ingredients

Meat Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 ounces (700 grams) ground beef mince
• 10 ounces (300 grams) ground pork mince (or additional beef)
• 24 ounces (700 grams) Passata
• 14 ounces (410 grams) crushed tomatoes
• 3 heaped tablespoons tomato paste (garlic and herbs flavored)
• 2 beef or vegetable bouillon cubes, crushed
• 1 teaspoon each dried oregano and basil
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (if desired)
• Salt and pepper to taste

White Sauce (Béchamel):

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 1/2 cups milk
• 1 cup fresh shredded Parmesan

Lasagna:

• 13 ounces (375 grams) fresh lasagna sheets*
• 17 ounces (500 grams) fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Meat Sauce:

• Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and carrot, cooking for 8-10 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Add beef and pork, cooking until browned while breaking it up with a spoon.
• Pour in Passata, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, crushed bouillon, and dried herbs. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar if needed. Cover and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until sauce thickens and meat is tender.
• Adjust seasoning to taste.

Parmesan White Sauce:

• Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Remove from heat; add flour and whisk for about 30 seconds until blended.
• Return pot to stove on low heat and slowly whisk in 1 cup milk until combined. Continue adding milk in increments, whisking well after each addition until smooth.
• Increase heat to medium, cooking until sauce thickens (about 6-7 minutes) and coats the back of a spoon.
• Add Parmesan, remove from heat, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until cheese melts.

To Assemble:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Spread 1 cup meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with lasagna sheets, trimming to fit if necessary. Layer with 2 cups meat sauce, 1 cup white sauce, and half the mozzarella. Repeat layers, reserving remaining mozzarella for the top.
• Top with remaining meat and white sauce, finishing with mozzarella. Bake for 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
• Garnish with parsley and let stand for 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• For a smoother white sauce, ensure the milk is added gradually while whisking continuously.
• Allow the lasagna to rest before serving, as this helps the layers set.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with a mixture of mushrooms and lentils.
• Add a pinch of nutmeg to the béchamel for extra flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories, protein, fats, and other nutrients will vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used. Always aim for balance in your diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready to serve.

Can I freeze the lasagna?

Absolutely! You can freeze it either before or after baking. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

Indulge in the world’s best lasagna by giving this recipe a try. It’s a guaranteed hit that will have everyone coming back for more. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you add. Enjoy your meal!