Imagine a warm, cheesy lasagna that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. This Greenwich style lasagna is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. With layers of rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and gooey mozzarella, it’s comfort food at its finest.
This recipe combines traditional Italian flavors with a touch of Greenwich charm. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and tastes, from the savory sausage to the soft pasta sheets. It’s a dish that brings everyone together at the table, creating moments worth savoring.
Layers of Flavor
This lasagna stands out with its beautifully crafted layers that combine to create a dish bursting with flavor. The rich meat sauce, made from seasoned ground beef and marinara, forms the hearty foundation of this recipe.
Each layer of pasta is interspersed with creamy béchamel sauce, which adds a velvety texture that perfectly complements the robust meat sauce. The gooey melted mozzarella on top ties everything together, creating a satisfying pull that any cheese lover will appreciate.
Preparation Essentials
Preparing this lasagna is a straightforward process that begins with boiling lasagna noodles until they’re al dente. The noodles serve as the backbone of the dish, providing structure and holding the layers together.
While the noodles are cooking, a flavorful meat sauce can be whipped up in a skillet, where chopped onions and minced garlic are sautéed before adding the ground beef or sausage. Simmering everything together allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
Béchamel Magic
A key component of this lasagna is the creamy béchamel sauce. This sauce not only adds richness but also balances the flavors of the meat and cheese. Preparing béchamel involves a simple roux of flour and butter, combined with milk to create a smooth, creamy texture.
This luscious sauce is then layered generously between the pasta sheets and meat sauce, ensuring that every bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. When baked, the béchamel bubbles and turns golden, forming a delightful crust on top.
The Baking Process
Once assembled, the lasagna is covered with foil and baked, allowing the flavors to meld further. After the initial baking time, the foil is removed to let the cheese on top become golden and bubbly.
This step is crucial for achieving that irresistible cheese crust that everyone loves. The contrast between the crispy top and the creamy layers below is a defining characteristic of a perfect lasagna.
Presents Perfectly
After baking, it’s important to let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve without falling apart. A sprinkle of fresh basil on top adds a pop of color and freshness, elevating the dish’s presentation.
Served hot from the oven, this lasagna is sure to impress. Pair it with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Creating a Cozy Atmosphere
Imagine serving this luscious lasagna in a rustic dish, surrounded by a cozy kitchen setting. The warmth from the oven fills the space with mouthwatering aromas, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
With utensils and fresh ingredients scattered around, the kitchen becomes a hub of activity and comfort. This setting not only enhances the dining experience but also encourages connections and conversation, making every meal memorable.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or sausage
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups béchamel sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Add the ground beef or sausage, cooking until browned. Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a large baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Place 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of béchamel and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6-8 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g