Classic lasagna recipe

Few dishes say comfort food quite like a classic lasagna recipe. With its rich layers of savory meat sauce, velvety béchamel, and gooey, golden cheese, this Italian classic is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavor and tradition. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd, planning a cozy family dinner, or looking to impress with a homemade favorite, this lasagna recipe delivers every time.

Made with simple, wholesome ingredients and baked to bubbling perfection, it’s a dish that brings people together and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Whether it’s your first time making lasagna or you’re perfecting your signature version of a classic lasagna recipe, this step-by-step guide will lead you to a hearty, satisfying result that everyone will love.

🍽️ Servings

6–8 people

⏱️ Prep Time

30 minutes
⏱️ Cook Time
1 hour (plus 15 minutes rest)

🧾 Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 500g (1 lb) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 800g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of sugar (optional)

For the Béchamel Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk (warm)
  • Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg

Other:

  • 250g (9 oz) lasagna noodles (no-boil or pre-cooked if needed)
  • 300g (10 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 100g (3.5 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated

🍳 Instructions

1. Make the Meat Sauce

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic, cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add ground meat, cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon.
  5. Mix in tomato paste, then add crushed tomatoes, herbs, salt, and pepper.
  6. Let simmer for 20–30 minutes. Add sugar if the sauce tastes too acidic.

2. Make the Béchamel Sauce

  1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Stir in flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in warm milk to avoid lumps.
  4. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Set aside.

3. Assemble the Lasagna

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce from your classic lasagna recipe.
  3. Layer noodles over the sauce.
  4. Add a layer of béchamel, then sprinkle with mozzarella.
  5. Repeat layers (sauce → noodles → béchamel → cheese) until ingredients are used up.
  6. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

4. Bake

  1. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  2. Remove foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
  3. Let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. This classic lasagna recipe is ready to be enjoyed.

🥗 Serving Suggestions

Pair this classic lasagna recipe with garlic bread, green salad, and a glass of red wine for a perfect meal.

Ready for an adventure?

Want to know more about culinary adventures in Europe? Read all about it in our ultimate culinary travel guide.

Posted

in

by

Yoasie

Tags: