Classic Lasagna Bolognese

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce (Bolognese)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 500 g (1 lb) ground beef

• 250 g (½ lb) ground pork (optional, but adds richness)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 800 g (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1 cup beef broth or water

• 1 bay leaf

For the Cheese Layer

• 400 g (14 oz) ricotta cheese

• 1 large egg

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Other Ingredients

• Lasagna noodles (oven-ready or pre-boiled)

• 300 g (3 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese

• 100 g (1 cup) grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Make the Meat Sauce

• Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

• Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.

• Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

• Add ground beef and pork. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

• Season with salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and chili flakes.

• Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.

• Add crushed tomatoes, broth, and bay leaf.

• Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and rich.

• Remove bay leaf before assembling.

2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

• In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and black pepper.

• Mix until smooth and creamy.

3. Prepare the Noodles

• If using regular lasagna noodles, boil according to package instructions.

• Drain and lay flat to prevent sticking.

4. Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

In a baking dish:

1. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.

2. Add a layer of lasagna noodles.

3. Spread ricotta mixture evenly.

4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese.

5. Add a generous layer of meat sauce.

6. Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with meat sauce on top.

7. Sprinkle Parmesan and remaining mozzarella on the top layer.

5. Bake

• Cover loosely with foil.

• Bake for 30 minutes.

• Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned.

6. Rest and Serve

• Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

• Garnish with chopped parsley or basil.

• Serve hot.

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Tips for Perfect Lasagna

• Longer simmering = deeper flavor.

• Letting it rest helps clean slices.

• Using mixed meats makes the sauce richer and more authentic.