Classic Béchamel Lasagna

There’s something profoundly comforting about a warm, bubbling plate of Classic Béchamel Lasagna. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that wraps you in layers of creamy goodness, meaty richness, and gooey, melty cheese. I remember my first lasagna, made gingerly under my grandmother’s watchful eye. She would lovingly layer each component, her hands dancing like a maestro orchestrating a symphony, and I was the eager audience. Little did I know then that this dish would become my go-to recipe for family gatherings and cozy nights in. There’s magic in those layers, and I can’t wait to share my secrets with you.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Imagine it: you pull a perfectly baked lasagna from the oven, its aroma enveloping you like a warm embrace. The crispy top gives way to luscious, creamy layers, each bite bursting with flavor, as if they were all meant to be together in harmony. What makes this recipe special, you ask? It’s the balance! The rich, savory embrace of Bolognese meets the silky smoothness of Béchamel, creating a delightful contrast that’s simply unforgettable. This isn’t just lasagna; it’s an adventure for your palate.

And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a dish you can prepare ahead of time? It checks off every box for a home cook—easy to make, beautifully impressive, and the leftovers (if there are any) taste even better the next day. Trust me, this is why you should be cooking this recipe tonight. It’s more than just filling your belly; it’s about sharing love, laughter, and perhaps a bit of wine with your loved ones.

Key ingredients overview

To craft this lasagna masterpiece, gather these essential ingredients:

• Lasagna Noodles: These will be your building blocks. Choose quality noodles, ideally the no-boil kind, which are convenient and soak up all that delicious sauce!

• Béchamel Sauce: This white sauce is rich and creamy, adding velvety texture to your dish. It’s surprisingly easy to make—milk, butter, flour, and a touch of nutmeg work wonders together.

• Bolognese Sauce: A flavorful meat sauce usually comprising ground beef and tomatoes. You can swap in turkey for a leaner option or make it vegetarian with mushrooms and lentils for a hearty alternative.

• Mozzarella Cheese: The classic melter and gooey goodness in lasagna. Fresh mozzarella will add a delightful chewiness.

• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle some aged Parm on top for a nutty finish that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

• Salt, Pepper, and Olive Oil: Basic, but don’t underestimate their significance! They will elevate every layer, bringing depth and brightness to the dish.

Step-by-step instructions overview

Creating this decadent Classic Béchamel Lasagna is a true delight, and fear not! I’ll guide you through every step.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s good and hot when your lasagna is ready to bake.

2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them and lay them flat on a clean towel to prevent sticking.

3. Prepare your baking dish by spreading a layer of Bolognese sauce at the bottom. This will help the noodles not to stick!

4. Layer the lasagna noodles over the Bolognese sauce. Don’t be shy; a little overlap is perfectly fine.

5. Spoon a layer of Béchamel sauce on top. This creamy goodness is what dreams are made of!

6. Repeat the layering process: Bolognese, noodles, Béchamel, until all your ingredients are beautifully stacked. End with a lovely layer of Béchamel, inviting creamy decadence.

7. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously on top; this will create a delicious golden crust.

8. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. A dash of salt enhances flavor, while the olive oil adds richness.

9. Bake in your preheated oven for 30-40 minutes until the top is bubbly and slightly charred, announcing its readiness to serve.

10. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This is essential for neat portions and also allows those flavors to mingle just a bit longer before you dive in!

Best way to enjoy it

Lasagna is perfect on its own, but don’t hesitate to add a fresh salad on the side—a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette would brighten everything up. Perhaps some crusty garlic bread to soak up those delicious sauce remnants? And if you’re feeling a bit Italian, a glass of Chianti or a crisp Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully.

How to store and freeze

Leftovers? Yes, please! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, lasagna freezes incredibly well! Just wrap well in plastic wrap and foil before sliding it into the freezer. It’ll keep for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Helpful cooking tips

• Make the sauces ahead: Preparing the Bolognese and Béchamel sauces a day in advance will save time and deepen flavors.
• Use a deep baking dish: This allows you to stack layers generously and ensures a beautiful presentation.
• Don’t be afraid to taste as you go. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference; cooking is all about personal touch!

Creative Twists

Lasagna is incredibly forgiving—consider adding fresh vegetables like spinach or roasted zucchini for a pop of color and nutrition. Want to spice things up? Toss in some cooked sausage or a bit of chili flakes for a kick. Vegan? Substitute dairy with plant-based alternatives and legumes for heartiness!

Ingredients List

• Lasagna noodles
• Béchamel sauce
• Bolognese sauce
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt
• Pepper
• Olive oil

Directions to follow

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to the package instructions.
3. Spread Bolognese sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
4. Layer noodles over the sauce.
5. Add Béchamel sauce on top of the noodles.
6. Repeat layering (Bolognese, noodles, Béchamel) until all ingredients are used, finishing with Béchamel.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
8. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
9. Bake for 30-40 minutes until bubbly and slightly charred.
10. Cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve.

Common questions

• Can I make this lasagna ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Can it be frozen? Yes, it freezes wonderfully! Just make sure to wrap it well.
• What if I’m vegetarian? Swap meat for vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or lentils—delicious and satisfying!
• How can I make this lower calorie? Use whole grain noodles, lean meat, and replace heavy cream in the Béchamel with milk alternatives.
• What to serve it with? A side salad and some crusty bread are perfect companions!

Classic Béchamel Lasagna isn’t just a dinner; it’s a cherished tradition that warms the heart. As you gather loved ones around the table to share this wondrous dish, remember the importance of creating memories in the kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own—add your personal flair, and please share your experiences! You are now officially a part of this mouthwatering story!

Print Recipe

0 Add to Favorites

Classic Béchamel Lasagna

Cooking Method: Baking Courses: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course Recipe Keys: C Comfort Food Dairy F Family Friendly Freezer Meals Non Vegetarian

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 40 mins Rest Time 10 mins Total Time 1 hr 20 mins

Cooking Temp: 375  F Servings: 8 Estimated Cost: $ 15 Calories: 600

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

A warm, bubbly plate of classic lasagna featuring layers of creamy béchamel sauce, savory bolognese, and gooey mozzarella.

Key Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Main Ingredients

• 12 sheets Lasagna noodles (No-boil kind preferred.)
• 2 cups Béchamel sauce (Homemade is best.)
• 2 cups Bolognese sauce (A flavorful meat sauce.)
• 2 cups Mozzarella cheese (Fresh mozzarella works best.)
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese (Aged for best flavor.)
• 1 tsp Salt (For seasoning.)
• 1 tsp Pepper (Freshly ground preferred.)
• 2 tbsp Olive oil (For drizzling on top.)

Cooking Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the Oven

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Mark as complete

2. Cook Noodles

   Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and lay them flat on a clean towel.
   Mark as complete

3. Prepare Baking Dish

   Spread a layer of Bolognese sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
   This helps the noodles not to stick.
   Mark as complete

4. Layer Ingredients

   Layer the lasagna noodles over the Bolognese sauce, then spoon a layer of Béchamel sauce on top. Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with Béchamel.
   Mark as complete

5. Add Cheese

   Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously on top.
   Mark as complete

6. Season and Bake

   Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 30-40 minutes until bubbly and slightly charred.
   Mark as complete

7. Rest and Serve

   Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
   This helps the layers set.
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

---

Amount Per Serving

Calories 600kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 33g51%

Saturated Fat 17g85%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 80mg27%

Sodium 700mg30%

Potassium 500mg15%

Total Carbohydrate 48g16%

Dietary Fiber 3g12%

Sugars 5g

Protein 30g60%

---

Vitamin A 800 IU

Vitamin C 2 mg

Calcium 400 mg

Iron 2.5 mg

Vitamin D 0 IU

Vitamin E 1 IU

Vitamin K 6 mcg

Thiamin 0.5 mg

Riboflavin 0.4 mg

Niacin 2 mg

Vitamin B6 0.2 mg

Folate 70 mcg

Vitamin B12 1.5 mcg

Pantothenic Acid 0.5 mg

Phosphorus 350 mg

Magnesium 30 mg

Zinc 3 mg

Selenium 15 mcg

Copper 0.1 mg

Manganese 0.2 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Make sauces ahead for deeper flavors and consider adding veggies for extra nutrition.

Keywords: lasagna, béchamel, bolognese, cheese, pasta