A Timeless Italian Classic

A Timeless Italian Classic? That could only mean one thing: Lasagna — the ultimate comfort food and a rich symbol of Italian culinary heritage. Layered with tender pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy béchamel (or ricotta), and gooey melted cheese, it’s a dish that’s been loved across generations and borders.

🇮🇹 Timeless Italian Lasagna (Traditional Style)

🕒 Total Time: 2–2½ hours (mostly simmering + baking)

Serves: 8

🧾 Ingredients:

For the meat sauce (Ragù):

1 lb ground beef (or mix with pork or Italian sausage)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt & black pepper to taste
½ cup red wine (optional but adds depth)
Fresh basil (optional)

For the béchamel sauce (or use ricotta mixture):

4 tbsp butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk, warmed
Pinch of nutmeg
Salt to taste

For layering:

9–12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
2 cups shredded mozzarella
¾ cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano
Optional: 1½ cups ricotta (if skipping béchamel)

🔪 Instructions:

1. Make the meat sauce:

In a skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic; cook until soft.
Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, wine (if using), and seasonings.
Simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Make béchamel sauce (if using):

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a roux.
Slowly whisk in warm milk to avoid lumps.
Cook until thickened (5–7 minutes), then season with salt and nutmeg.

(If using ricotta: Mix ricotta with 1 egg, a pinch of salt, and some grated Parmesan.)

3. Pre-cook noodles (if needed):

Boil according to package instructions. Drain and toss with a little olive oil.

4. Assemble the lasagna:

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a 9×13 baking dish:
1. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce.
2. Add a layer of noodles.
3. Spoon over béchamel or ricotta.
4. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
6. Finish with sauce + cheese on top.

5. Bake:

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Uncover and bake another 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Let rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing — crucial for clean layers.

🍷 Serve With:

A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
Garlic bread or rustic Italian loaf
A glass of Chianti or Sangiovese

💡 Tips:

Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 2 days before baking.
Freeze: Freeze baked or unbaked lasagna — just thaw before baking or reheating.
Vegetarian twist: Use sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach instead of meat.