Simple Lasagna Recipe for the Holidays

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The end of the year is the perfect time to gather family and friends around delicious and unforgettable dishes.

THE lasagna, with its irresistible combination of stuffed layers, sauce and grated cheese, is a sure choice to delight all palates.

Even for those who don't have much experience in the kitchen, preparing a lasagna can be simpler than it seems.

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With the right ingredients and a practical step-by-step guide, you'll be ready to surprise your guests at Christmas or New Year's Eve with a dish that is a symbol of comfort and celebration.

Read on to find out how to prepare the Simple and Tasty Lasagna Recipe that will shine on your party table. Take advantage of exclusive tips to make it even more special!

Ingredients

For the Lasagna:

  • 500 g of lasagna pasta (pre-cooked or traditional);
  • 700 g ground beef (or shredded chicken for variation);
  • 1 large onion, chopped;
  • 2 cloves of minced garlic;
  • 3 tablespoons of olive oil;
  • 1 can of tomato sauce (approximately 340 g);
  • 1 box of cream;
  • 300 g sliced mozzarella cheese;
  • 100 g of grated parmesan cheese;
  • Salt and black pepper to taste;
  • Chopped chives to finish (optional).

For the White Sauce (optional):

  • Salt to taste.
  • 2 tablespoons of butter;
  • 2 tablespoons of wheat flour;
  • 500 ml of milk;
  • Nutmeg to taste;

Step by step

1. Prepare the Filling:

  1. In a pan, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until lightly golden.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook until golden brown.
  3. Add the tomato sauce, adjust the salt and black pepper, and let it cook on low heat for 10 minutes. Set aside.

2. Prepare the White Sauce (optional):

  1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add the wheat flour and mix well until a homogeneous paste forms.
  3. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
  4. Season with salt and nutmeg. Cook until the sauce thickens. Set aside.

3. Assembling the Lasagna:

  1. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
  2. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles.
  3. Top with a layer of meat sauce, followed by mozzarella cheese.
  4. Repeat the process until the baking dish is full, finishing with a layer of grated Parmesan cheese.
  5. If using white sauce, alternate between layers of meat sauce.

4. Finalization:

  • Remove the aluminum foil and let it brown for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is golden.
  • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place in a preheated oven at 180°C for 30 minutes.

Practical Tips

  1. Use pre-cooked lasagna noodles to save time.
  2. Add vegetables like zucchini or spinach between the layers to make the dish more nutritious.
  3. Prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator to make it quicker on the day of the party.
  4. Replace the cream with ricotta or cottage cheese to vary the texture and flavor.
  5. Freeze individual portions of lasagna for easy post-party meals.

Recipe Variations

  • Vegetarian Lasagna: Replace the meat with grilled mushrooms, zucchini and eggplant.
  • Chicken Lasagna: Use shredded chicken seasoned with herbs and creamed corn.
  • Gluten Free Lasagna: Choose rice or cassava pasta and make sure all ingredients are gluten-free.
  • Cheese Lasagna: Opt for a combination of cheeses like gorgonzola, provolone and parmesan.
  • Light Lasagna: Use turkey breast, whole-wheat pasta, and lower-fat sauces.


How to make a simple and delicious lasagna?

To prepare a simple and delicious lasagna, you will need lasagna noodles, Bolognese sauce, white sauce (béchamel), mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese. Make alternating layers of sauce, noodles and cheeses, finishing with parmesan cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.

What's the secret to a perfect lasagna?

The secret to a perfect lasagna lies in the quality of the ingredients and proper assembly. Use well-seasoned sauces, fresh or good-quality pasta, and cheeses that melt well. Let the lasagna rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven to make it easier to cut and to enhance the flavors.

Can I freeze lasagna before baking?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna and freeze it before baking. Be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, remove it from the freezer and place it in the preheated oven, increasing the baking time to ensure it heats through.

How to prevent lasagna from becoming watery?

To prevent your lasagna from becoming watery, drain ingredients with a high water content, such as vegetables and meats, thoroughly. Cook sauces until they reach a thicker consistency and avoid adding too much liquid. Also, let the lasagna rest for a few minutes after baking so that the liquids can be reabsorbed.

How to make white sauce for lasagna?

To make the white sauce (béchamel), melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan, add 2 tablespoons of wheat flour and cook for a few minutes. Gradually add 500 ml of milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Season with salt, pepper and nutmeg to taste.

How to assemble lasagna correctly?

To assemble the lasagna, start with a layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish, followed by a layer of pasta. Add the filling (such as Bolognese sauce), then cheese, and repeat the layers until you reach the desired height. Finish with sauce and cheese on top to brown.

Now that you have the complete guide to preparing a simple and tasty lasagna, it's time to get your hands dirty!

This versatile dish is not just a meal, but also an opportunity to create unforgettable memories with the people you love.

Perfect for the end of year festivities, lasagna brings a special touch of comfort and celebration to your table.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cook, this step-by-step guide is designed to ensure your success.

Adjust the recipe to your taste, explore the suggested variations and experiment with new ingredients that match your creativity.

Gather the family, share unique moments and let lasagna shine as the star of the occasion.

After you try it, don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family — and maybe inspire them to make their own version of this classic and delicious recipe.

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