Love Italian: Easy Lasagne Recipe

 

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to the classic Italian favourite of lasagne. This hearty dish is made up of layers of rich beef mince, tender lasagne sheets and a creamy sauce made from a blend of cheese, milk and butter. The combination of these ingredients creates a flavourful and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a comforting dinner after a long day at work or a dish to share with friends and family, lasagne is sure to hit the spot. So why not indulge in this delicious and timeless dish today?

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 tsp garlic purée 
• 500g beef mince
• 1 tbsp tomato purée
• 400g tin chopped tomatoes
• 200ml beef stock
• 200ml red wine
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 10 lasagne sheets
• 50g Parmesan, grated
• 160g mozzarella, shredded

For the white sauce

• 50g butter
• 50g plain flour
• 500ml semi-skimmed milk

Method

1. In a generously sized pan, gently warm the olive oil over low heat. Sauté the onion, carrot, and garlic for approximately 5 minutes, or until they have softened. Increase the heat to medium and add the minced meat, frying until it turns a beautiful golden hue. 
2. Next, turn up the heat and pour in the wine, allowing it to bubble and reduce. Stir in the tomato purée, chopped tomatoes, and stock, followed by the Worcestershire sauce. 
3. Allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 15 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced to your liking. 
4. Finally, season to your taste.
5. While you wait, prepare the white sauce. Begin by melting the butter in a small saucepan over low heat, then add the flour and whisk until fully combined. Allow it to cook on low for 1-2 minutes. 
6. Next, remove the pan from the heat and gradually whisk in the milk until a smooth and loose sauce is formed. Season to taste. 
7. Return the pan to a gentle heat and continue whisking constantly until the sauce thickens to perfection.
8. To cook, preheat your oven to gas mark 6, 200°C, or fan 180°C. 
9. Next, layer your lasagne in a baking dish, starting with a third of the meat sauce, followed by a layer of pasta, and then a layer of white sauce. Repeat this process twice more. 
10. Once you have layered your lasagne, sprinkle Parmesan and mozzarella on top. 
11. Bake in the oven for 40-45 minutes until the dish is piping hot, crispy, and bubbling on top. 
12. Serve immediately for maximum enjoyment.

Published with permission from our friends at VUUWS Magazine