Ultimate Classic Beef Lasagna with Creamy White Sauce

Classic Beef Lasagna Recipe

Experience the rich, comforting layers of classic Beef Lasagna with this easy-to-follow recipe that combines hearty beef bolognese sauce, creamy white sauce, and gooey cheese into a delectable dish perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Beef Bolognese Sauce:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 jar (about 2 cups) store-bought or homemade bolognese sauce
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: chili sauce for extra heat

For the White Sauce:

• 100ml vegetable oil
• 100g all-purpose flour
• 250ml full cream milk
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)

For Assembly:

• 9-12 lasagna sheets, depending on your dish size
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 cup sliced smoked beef or sausage (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beef Bolognese Sauce:

   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
   • Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until fully browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat if needed.
   • Stir in the bolognese sauce. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of chili sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors. Set aside.

2. Prepare the White Sauce:

   • In a saucepan, heat 100ml of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, whisk in the flour, cooking for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Do not let it brown.
   • Gradually add the full cream milk to the roux, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
   • Stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of ground nutmeg if desired. Allow the sauce to cook until it begins to bubble. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Lasagna:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Line a baking dish with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Spread a layer of white sauce on the bottom of the dish.
   • Place a layer of lasagna sheets over the sauce. Follow with a layer of beef bolognese sauce and then a layer of white sauce. Optionally, add a layer of sliced smoked beef or sausage for extra flavor.
   • Repeat the layering process until you use up all the ingredients, ending with a final layer of white sauce. Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella cheese and dried oregano.

4. Bake the Lasagna:

   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Serve:

   • Allow the lasagna to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the layers to set and makes serving easier. Enjoy your classic Beef Lasagna with a side salad or garlic bread!

This Beef Lasagna combines savory, cheesy layers with a rich and flavorful bolognese sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners and special gatherings alike.