Lasagne Bolognese

Here’s a classic Lasagne Bolognese recipe that’s rich, hearty, and perfect for a comforting meal:

Lasagne Bolognese

Ingredients:

For the Bolognese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion (finely chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 carrot (finely diced)
• 1 celery stalk (finely diced)
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 lb (450 g) ground pork
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 12-15 lasagna noodles (uncooked or no-boil)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Make the Bolognese Sauce:
   • In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the ground beef and ground pork. Cook until browned, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef or chicken broth, and red wine (if using).
   • Add the dried basil, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
   • Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Remove the bay leaf before using.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux (paste), being careful not to let it brown.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens and is smooth.
   • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Lasagne:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Spread a thin layer of Bolognese sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. You can overlap them slightly.
   • Spread a layer of cheese sauce over the noodles, followed by a layer of Bolognese sauce.
   • Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of cheese sauce on top.
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
4. Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
   • Let the lasagne rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow it to set.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot with a side salad and garlic bread.

Enjoy your homemade Lasagne Bolognese!