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Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce

Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce: Comforting Layers of Yum

This Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce combines layers of pasta, rich meat or vegetables, and creamy béchamel for a comforting meal.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • 1 lb Ground Pork Optional for extra richness; omit for vegetarian.
  • 28 oz Crushed Tomatoes Can substitute with tomato purée or fresh tomatoes.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Can use canola or vegetable oil.
  • 1 medium Onion Can substitute with shallots.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Or use garlic powder.
  • 1/2 cup Red Wine Optional; replace with broth for non-alcoholic.
  • 1 tsp Oregano Fresh can substitute dried if adjusted.
  • 1 tsp Basil Fresh can substitute dried if adjusted.
  • 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Adjust or omit according to taste.
  • Salt To taste.
  • Pepper To taste.
For the Béchamel Sauce
  • 4 tbsp Butter Can substitute with margarine.
  • 1/4 cup Flour Cornstarch can be a gluten-free alternative.
  • 3 cups Milk Dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk can be used.
  • 1/4 tsp Nutmeg Optional.
For the Assembly
  • 12 sheets Lasagna Noodles No-boil varieties can simplify prep.
  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Use vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Can substitute with nutritional yeast.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • medium saucepan
  • Large Pot
  • 9x13 inch baking dish

Method
 

Prepare Meat Sauce
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Sauté the diced onion for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, releasing its aroma. Add the ground beef and pork, browning for 7-10 minutes until fully cooked. Pour in crushed tomatoes and a splash of red wine, letting the sauce simmer on low for 30-40 minutes until thickened and flavors meld beautifully.
Make Béchamel Sauce
  1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, creating a roux, and cook for 1-2 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Gradually pour in warm milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats the back of the spoon. Finish with a pinch of salt and nutmeg, allowing the béchamel to sit while you prepare the lasagna noodles.
Cook Lasagna Noodles
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. If using traditional lasagna noodles, cook according to package instructions for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel so they don’t stick together while you assemble your Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce.
Assemble Lasagna
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking. Layer noodles over the sauce, followed by a generous spread of béchamel. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese, creating additional layers by repeating the process. Finish with a top layer of béchamel and a sprinkle of cheese for a bubbling, golden finish.
Bake
  1. Cover your assembled lasagna with foil to keep it moist, and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes until hot and bubbly. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the top is a beautiful golden brown, and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
Rest and Serve
  1. Once out of the oven, let the lasagna rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice. Serve with a side of garlic bread or salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 550mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Allow the lasagna to cool for 10-15 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices. If meat sauce is watery, simmer longer to thicken. Use a sharp knife for effortless slicing.

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