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Lasagna Bolognese

Irresistible Lasagna Bolognese for Cozy Family Nights

This Lasagna Bolognese is a comforting dish filled with layers of noodles, slow-cooked meat sauce, and creamy cheeses, perfect for family nights.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Provides richness and moisture for a delightful sauce.
  • 1 large onion (chopped) Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 1 large carrot (peeled and finely chopped) Enhances sweetness and texture.
  • 2 stalks celery (finely chopped) Contributes to the mirepoix base.
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced) Introduces aromatic, savory notes.
  • 2 lb ground beef The main protein; consider mixing in Italian sausage.
  • 0.5 cup dry white wine Balances flavors with acidity.
  • 2 cans (28 oz) crushed tomatoes Forms the base of the meat sauce.
  • 0.25 cup tomato paste Intensifies tomato flavor.
  • 1 cup low-sodium beef or chicken broth Adds moisture and flavor.
  • 1 bay leaf Infuses aromatic flavor.
  • 1 cup whole milk Adds creaminess.
  • kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper Essential for seasoning.
For the Lasagna
  • 1 lb lasagna noodles The backbone of the dish.
  • 3 cups ricotta cheese Provides creaminess.
  • 1 large egg (beaten) Binds the ricotta mixture.
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (divided) Enhances flavor.
  • 1.5 teaspoons dried oregano Introduces Italian herbs.
  • 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Adds a hint of heat.
  • 1 lb fresh mozzarella (sliced) Melts beautifully.
  • fresh parsley (for garnish) Adds color and freshness.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing bowl
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Colander
  • aluminum foil

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion, finely chopped carrot, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. Add 2 pounds of ground beef, breaking it apart until browned, about 6 minutes; drain excess fat.
  4. Pour in ½ cup of dry white wine and cook until nearly evaporated, approximately 3 minutes.
  5. Stir in 2 cans of crushed tomatoes, ¼ cup of tomato paste, 1 cup of low-sodium beef broth, and a bay leaf.
  6. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 1.5 hours.
  7. Stir in 1 cup of whole milk and let simmer for another 15 minutes.
  8. While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 1 pound of lasagna noodles according to package directions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  9. In a mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of ricotta cheese with 1 beaten large egg, ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1.5 teaspoons of dried oregano, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  10. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of Bolognese on the bottom. Layer the cooked noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, sliced fresh mozzarella, and more Bolognese sauce. Repeat the process and finish with Bolognese and remaining Parmesan on top.
  11. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  12. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Allow the Bolognese sauce to simmer for at least 1.5 hours for deep, rich flavors. You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance.

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