Description
Indulge in layers of rich, meaty sauce, creamy béchamel, and gooey cheese with this Quick and Easy Lasagna (Lazanya). Perfect for busy nights or special gatherings, this comforting classic is as flavorful as it is simple to prepare. Whether you’re making it for your family or impressing guests, this lasagna is a guaranteed hit!
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon mixed fresh herbs (basil, thyme, parsley, rosemary) or 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1 kg ground meat (beef or mutton)
- 800 grams chopped tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup water
For the Béchamel Sauce (White Sauce):
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons flour
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 3 cups cold milk
Additional Ingredients:
- Lasagna sheets (no-boil or regular)
- 200 grams shredded cheddar cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
Prepare the Meat Sauce:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes, or until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, mixed fresh herbs (or dried Italian seasoning), chili flakes, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the ground meat to the skillet. Cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour, whisking constantly to create a smooth paste (roux). Cook for 1-2 minutes without browning.
- Gradually whisk in the cold milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to whisk over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
- Season with a pinch of nutmeg and salt. Stir well and remove from heat.
Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place a layer of lasagna sheets over the sauce.
- Add a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the béchamel.
- Repeat the layers, ending with a final layer of béchamel sauce on top.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top layer.
Bake the Lasagna:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serve:
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve hot and enjoy this rich and satisfying dish!
Notes
- Use no-boil lasagna sheets to save time.
- Add a layer of ricotta cheese for extra creaminess.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian