Classic Beef Lasagna

A hearty, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Layers of rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese make this lasagna an irresistible crowd-pleaser!

Prep Time: 30 mins

Cook Time: 45 mins

Total Time: 1 hour 15 mins

Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

Meat Sauce:

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 700 g ground beef (or beef/pork mix)

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 3 tomatoes, chopped

• 300 g tomato sauce

• Salt, black pepper, and paprika (to taste)

• Vegetable oil (for cooking)

Béchamel Sauce:

• 50 g butter

• 60 g flour

• 600 ml milk

• Salt and nutmeg (to taste)

Lasagna Assembly:

• 200 g lasagna sheets

• 200 g grated mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:

• Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent.

• Add garlic and cook until fragrant.

• Brown the ground meat, breaking it apart as it cooks.

• Stir in celery, tomatoes, and seasonings.

• Pour in tomato sauce and simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.

2. Make the Béchamel Sauce:

• Melt butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour to form a roux.

• Gradually add milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

• Season with salt and nutmeg. Cook until thickened.

3. Assemble the Lasagna:

• Preheat oven to 180°C (355°F).

• In a baking dish, layer:

  • Meat sauce

  • Lasagna sheets

  • Béchamel sauce

  • Mozzarella cheese

• Repeat layers, finishing with béchamel and a generous cheese topping.

4. Bake:

• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

• Uncover and bake for 10 more minutes until golden and bubbly.

• Let rest 5-10 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread.

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor.

Tips & Variations

✔ Enhance flavor with a mix of beef and pork.
✔ Let lasagna rest before cutting for cleaner slices.
✔ Gluten-free? Use GF lasagna sheets and flour.
✔ Vegetarian? Swap meat for lentils or mushrooms.

Storage

• Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in oven or microwave.

Why You’ll Love This Lasagna

❤ Comforting – The ultimate family-friendly meal.
❤ Rich & cheesy – Layers of savory meat and creamy béchamel.
❤ Great for meal prep – Assemble ahead and bake when ready!

Enjoy this classic, delicious lasagna—perfect for any occasion! Bon appétit!