Ricotta Lasagna (Lasagne alla Ricotta)
Category: Main Dishes
Servings: 4
Lasagna alla ricotta is a delectable and creamy version of the classic Italian lasagna. With layers of smooth ricotta cheese and a rich béchamel sauce, this comforting dish is perfect for any occasion. It combines a delicate balance of flavors, from the mild creaminess of ricotta to the sharp, aromatic notes of Grana Padano and Pecorino cheeses. This dish is a great choice for both family meals and special gatherings, offering a satisfying taste without being overly heavy.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Egg Lasagna Sheets (Lasagne all’uovo) | 250g |
| White Pepper | To taste |
| Fresh Thyme | To taste |
| Nutmeg | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 30g |
| Grana Padano DOP (grated) | 50g |
| Ricotta Cheese (preferably cow’s milk) | 750g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 35g |
| Water | 75g |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
| Milk | 750g |
| All-Purpose Flour (00 flour) | 60g |
| Butter | 75g |
| Grana Padano DOP (grated) | 150g |
| Pecorino Cheese (grated) | 50g |
| Nutmeg | To taste |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Béchamel Sauce
Start by making the béchamel sauce, which will serve as the base of your lasagna. In a deep pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the flour to the pan and whisk together to form a smooth paste (roux). Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes until the roux becomes golden in color.
Slowly pour in the milk, which should be slightly warmed to avoid lumps. Continue whisking constantly to ensure the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg to enhance the flavor. Let the sauce cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens. Keep a close eye on it to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Once the béchamel has thickened, add in the grated Grana Padano cheese and whisk until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Transfer the béchamel to a large bowl, cover with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Preparing the Ricotta Cream
In a separate bowl, add the ricotta cheese. Drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil over the ricotta and mix to make it creamy and smooth. If you prefer, you can also blend the ricotta to achieve a finer texture. Add the ricotta mixture to the prepared béchamel sauce, stirring well to combine both elements into a smooth and creamy filling for your lasagna.
Step 3: Assembling the Lasagna
Now that the sauces are prepared, it’s time to assemble the lasagna. Grease a baking dish (approximately 30×20 cm) with a light drizzle of olive oil to prevent the lasagna from sticking. Begin by layering the lasagna sheets along the bottom of the dish, ensuring they fit snugly.
Next, spread a layer of the creamy ricotta and béchamel mixture over the lasagna sheets. Sprinkle a few fresh thyme leaves on top of the ricotta layer for an aromatic touch. Lightly grate some nutmeg over the surface for an additional layer of flavor.
Repeat the layering process. Place another layer of lasagna sheets on top, this time in the opposite direction to create a crisscross pattern. Continue alternating layers of lasagna sheets and the ricotta-béchamel mixture until you’ve built up about six layers. Make sure to end with a final layer of the ricotta and béchamel mixture at the top.
Step 4: Final Touches and Baking
For the final touch, sprinkle an abundant amount of grated Grana Padano over the top of the lasagna. Add a few more thyme leaves for decoration and season with freshly ground black pepper to taste. This will give the lasagna a beautiful, golden crust when baked.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the lasagna for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The lasagna should be heated through and have a lovely golden color.
Step 5: Serving
Once baked, allow the lasagna to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve. Serve warm, garnished with extra thyme leaves if desired. This lasagna pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and a glass of white wine.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 49g |
| Fat | 26g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
This Lasagna alla Ricotta recipe is a perfect dish for cheese lovers and anyone who enjoys the smooth, creamy textures of ricotta combined with rich, savory béchamel sauce. It’s an ideal choice for family meals, special occasions, or when you’re in the mood for a comforting, homemade dish. Enjoy the beautiful layers of flavor, and don’t forget to serve it with some fresh, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce!
