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Classic Lasagna with Béchamel

Classic Lasagna with Béchamel: A Comforting Family Favorite

Classic Lasagna with Béchamel is a comforting family favorite, featuring layers of pasta, savory ragu, and rich béchamel sauce.
Prep Time 50 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Ragu Sauce
  • 2 large Onions Any type like brown, white, or red works well.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Feel free to substitute with any cooking oil.
  • 2 lbs Ground Beef Ground turkey is a lighter alternative.
  • 5 cloves Garlic Minced; can substitute with garlic powder.
  • 3 cubes Beef Bouillon Use beef broth as a substitute if desired.
  • ¾ cup Red Wine Can be replaced with broth or vinegar for non-alcoholic.
  • 2 cans Crushed Tomatoes 28 oz each; fresh tomatoes can be used when in season.
  • 1 tablespoon Sugar Optional if you prefer a sweeter sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Soy sauce makes a great alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Dried Oregano Adjust quantity if using fresh herbs.
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Italian Mixed Herbs
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
  • ½ cup Water Broth can enhance the flavor if used instead.
For the Béchamel Sauce
  • 6 tablespoons Butter Creates a rich base for the béchamel.
  • ¾ cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour serves as a suitable replacement.
  • 1 pinch Mustard Powder Can be left out if unavailable.
  • 6 cups Milk Consider using nut milk for a dairy-free option.
For Assembly
  • 10 oz Dried Lasagna Sheets No-cook varieties save time.
  • ½ cup Shredded Cheddar/Monterey Jack Feel free to mix varieties.
  • ½ cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan
  • Finely Chopped Parsley/Basil For garnish; optional but recommended.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large skillet
  • Medium saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté 2 chopped onions until they are softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in 2 pounds of ground beef and cook until browned, approximately 8-10 minutes. Add 5 minced garlic cloves and 3 beef bouillon cubes, stirring until dissolved, followed by ¾ cup of red wine. Allow it to simmer for 3-4 minutes for the alcohol to cook off.
  2. Next, add 2 cans of crushed tomatoes, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons of dried oregano, 1 tablespoon of dried Italian mixed herbs, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ cup of water into the skillet. Mix well and bring the sauce to a gentle boil. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 2.5 hours on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld beautifully.
  3. As the ragu simmers, melt 6 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in ¾ cup of all-purpose flour and a pinch of mustard powder until bubbly, about 2 minutes. Gradually add 6 cups of milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens and bubbles gently, about 8-10 minutes. Season the béchamel with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring it's creamy and smooth.
  4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of ragu on the bottom to prevent sticking. Layer with 2-3 lasagna sheets, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce and a sprinkle of cheese. Repeat the layers, alternating between ragu, pasta, béchamel, and cheese, finishing with a generous topping of béchamel and a mix of shredded mozzarella, cheddar, Monterey Jack, and grated Parmesan.
  5. Once assembled, place the lasagna in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. After baking, allow it to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving, which helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, follow expert tips for simmering, béchamel consistency, and proper layering.

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