Ingredients:
For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground pork
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preparing the Bolognese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Add the ground beef and pork to the pot. Cook the meat until it browns, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in the chopped carrot and celery, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef or chicken broth, and red wine (if using). Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the Bolognese sauce cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavors will become. You can let it simmer for up to 1-2 hours if you have the time.
- Assembling the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the Bolognese sauce to coat the bottom.
- Place three cooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, covering the bottom of the dish.
- Spread half of the ricotta cheese over the noodles, followed by a layer of the Bolognese sauce, then a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Add another layer of three lasagna noodles and repeat the process of adding ricotta cheese, Bolognese sauce, and the two types of shredded cheese.
- Finish the lasagna with the final layer of three lasagna noodles. Spread the remaining Bolognese sauce over the top layer, and generously sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Baking the Lasagna:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure it doesn’t touch the cheese on top.
- Bake the lasagna in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese on top turns golden brown.
- Serving the Lasagna:
- Once the lasagna is out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This allows the layers to set.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, before serving.
Enjoy your scrumptious Lasagna Bolognese! It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or any special occasion. Buon appetito! #LasagnaBolognese #ItalianCuisine #HomemadePasta