Delicious Lasagna Recipe from Good Housekeeping Online

The world of culinary arts never ceases to amaze with its blend of tradition, creativity, and indulgence, and one dish that perfectly encapsulates all these elements is lasagna. Originating from Italy, lasagna has transcended its borders to become a beloved meal around the globe. This article takes you on a culinary journey through an enticing and authentic lasagna recipe, tailored for those eager to bring the comfort of this iconic dish into their homes. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this Delicious Lasagna Recipe from Good Housekeeping Online will guide you through every step with ease.

Ingredients

To prepare an exquisite lasagna, you’ll need:

• Pasta: 1 pound lasagna noodles
• Béchamel Sauce:
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 tablespoons flour
  • 4 cups milk
  • Salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste
• Meat Sauce:
  • 1 pound ground beef or a mixture of beef and pork
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• Cheese:
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Extras: Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparing the Meat Sauce

Begin your lasagna journey by making the heart of the dish—the meat sauce:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef or beef-pork mixture, cooking until browned. Ensure to break up the meat as it cooks.
2. Add chopped onions and garlic, stirring frequently to cook until onions are soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer this concoction for at least 30 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Your meat sauce is now ready to be layered in your lasagna.

✅ Note: Simmering the sauce for a longer time (up to an hour) will deepen the flavors.

Béchamel Sauce

A silky béchamel sauce provides the creamy contrast to the robust meat sauce:

1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking until it’s lightly golden.
2. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat.
4. This sauce will make your lasagna irresistibly luxurious.

Assembling the Lasagna

With all components ready, assembling your lasagna is a straightforward affair:

1. Preheat your oven: to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of your 9x13 inch baking dish.
3. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping them to prevent gaps.
4. Spread a third of the ricotta cheese over the noodles, followed by a third of the meat sauce, a drizzle of béchamel sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of béchamel and a generous topping of shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

💡 Note: Covering the lasagna initially with foil helps to melt the cheese evenly without burning it, as well as ensuring the pasta cooks through.

Serving and Presentation

Lasagna is not just about taste; presentation plays a key role too:

• Resting: Allow the lasagna to cool and set for at least 15 minutes before cutting into it. This ensures clean slices.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil can add a pop of color and flavor.
• Portions: Cut the lasagna into squares or rectangles depending on the number of guests.

In essence, crafting a Delicious Lasagna is an art form—a celebration of flavors and textures, layered to create a harmonious dish that tantalizes your taste buds. This recipe from Good Housekeeping Online provides a roadmap for both the seasoned cook and the kitchen novice, ensuring that each slice of lasagna is a testament to the joy of Italian cuisine. With the creamy béchamel, the hearty meat sauce, and the perfectly cooked lasagna noodles, every bite is a tribute to tradition and innovation. As you embark on this culinary adventure, remember that the beauty of lasagna lies in its layers, much like the layers of experiences that enrich our lives.

Can I make lasagna ahead of time?

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Yes, you can prepare lasagna up to 2 days ahead. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. Let it come to room temperature before baking, or bake directly from the fridge, extending the baking time slightly.

How do you store leftover lasagna?

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Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

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Absolutely, no-boil lasagna noodles are designed to absorb the moisture from the sauces as they bake, so no pre-cooking is necessary. Just ensure there’s enough sauce to keep them hydrated.