19 Authentic Italian Lasagna Recipe From Scratch Unleash Your Inner Chef!
Published on: Mar 15, 2024
When it comes to Italian cuisine, one dish that stands out above the rest is undoubtedly lasagna. This beloved comfort food has been a staple in Italian households for centuries, with each family boasting their own unique recipe. While there are countless variations of this hearty dish, today I'll be sharing with you an authentic Italian lasagna recipe from scratch that is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to embark on a culinary journey as we uncover the secrets to creating the perfect lasagna.
Before we dive into the recipe, let's take a look at the key ingredients that make up this authentic Italian lasagna. First and foremost, the star of the show - fresh pasta sheets. While it may be tempting to use store-bought lasagna noodles, trust me when I say that nothing beats the taste and texture of homemade pasta. Next, we have the meat sauce, which consists of ground beef, onions, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices. For the bechamel sauce, you'll need butter, flour, milk, and a hint of nutmeg for that extra touch of flavor. Finally, the dish is completed with parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves.
Preparation
The key to making a delicious lasagna is all in the preparation. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven is heating up, you can start preparing the meat sauce. In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once fully cooked, add in the onions, garlic, and your choice of herbs and spices. I recommend using a combination of oregano, basil, and thyme for that authentic Italian flavor. Let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Assembling the Lasagna
Now comes the fun part – assembling the lasagna. Start by spreading a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Next, place a layer of fresh pasta sheets on top of the sauce, followed by a layer of bechamel sauce. Repeat this process until you have used up all the ingredients, making sure to end with a layer of bechamel sauce on top.
Baking and Serving
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle a generous amount of parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese on top. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Once done, let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness.
Now that you have the perfect authentic Italian lasagna recipe in your hands, go ahead and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. One bite of this delicious dish and they'll be begging you for the recipe. Buon appetito!