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2. Make the Béchamel Sauce
- Melt the Butter: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the Flour: Once the butter has melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Whisk in the Milk: Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Season: Stir in salt, nutmeg (optional), and Parmesan cheese. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Lasagna Noodles
- Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay the noodles flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent them from sticking together.
4. Assemble the Lasagna
- Layering: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce, a generous portion of meat sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers: noodles, béchamel sauce, meat sauce, and mozzarella, until you have used up all the ingredients. End with a final layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
- For extra creaminess, you can add ricotta cheese between the layers of meat sauce and mozzarella.
5. Bake the Lasagna
- Cover and Bake: Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish Baking: After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. If you want an extra crispy top, you can broil the lasagna for 2-3 minutes at the end.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes for cleaner cuts.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and serve with a side salad or garlic bread.
Tips for Perfect Lasagna
- Make-Ahead: Lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and can save you time on busy days.
- Freezing: If you have leftovers or want to make lasagna in advance, freeze it after baking. Wrap tightly in foil and store it for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheese can elevate your lasagna, giving it a richer flavor.
- Customizations: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the meat sauce or swap the minced meat for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein for a lighter version.
Why You Should Try Homemade Lasagna with Minced Meat
There’s nothing quite like a hearty, comforting homemade lasagna. The combination of a savory meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese is simply unbeatable. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy family dinner, Homemade Lasagna with Minced Meat is a dish that brings everyone together. Plus, it’s a great way to feed a crowd and enjoy leftovers for days to come.
This classic recipe is bound to become a family favorite, so give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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