Lasagna is one of those comforting dishes that never fails to impress. Jamie Oliver’s take on this beloved Italian classic is a delicious blend of layers filled with rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and gooey cheese. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, and believe me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked.
Imagine serving a piping hot dish of lasagna straight from the oven, the cheese bubbling and golden brown on top. Each slice reveals hearty layers and incredible flavors, making it a meal that’s bound to be a hit at your dinner table. This recipe not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart with its incredible taste.
This Jamie Oliver lasagna recipe is straightforward and packed with flavor, making it suitable for both novice and experienced cooks alike. You’ll love how satisfying it is to create such a classic dish from scratch.
Delicious Layered Lasagna with Meat and Cheese
Lasagna is a true comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction with each bite. This classic dish is a feast for both the eyes and the palate, making it a perfect centerpiece for family gatherings or a quiet dinner at home.
The secret to this lasagna’s flavor lies in its rich meat sauce, made from ground beef and fresh tomatoes, which pairs beautifully with the creamy béchamel sauce. When combined and baked, these layers create a harmonious blend that is utterly irresistible.
Preparing the Meat Sauce
To achieve a deep and savory flavor, start with browning the ground beef in a large pot. Adding finely chopped onions and minced garlic will enhance the aroma and richness of the sauce.
As the mixture simmers, the tomatoes and herbs meld together, forming a hearty sauce that will be the backbone of the lasagna. Allowing it to simmer for about 30 minutes will deepen the flavors, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.
Making the Creamy Béchamel
The béchamel sauce adds a luxurious creaminess to the dish. Begin by creating a roux with melted butter and flour, whisking in the milk gradually until the mixture thickens. This step is key for obtaining that velvety texture.
Finishing the béchamel with grated Parmesan cheese infuses it with a nutty flavor that perfectly complements the rich meat sauce. This creamy layer is what makes each slice of lasagna a delight to savor.
Layering the Lasagna
Layering is where the magic happens! In a baking dish, start with a generous layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of béchamel, then the lasagna sheets, and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat this process, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
For the final touch, top off with béchamel and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, which will create a golden, bubbly crust when baked. The anticipation builds as you prepare to bake this delightful creation.
Baking to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and cover your lasagna with aluminum foil for the initial baking period. This ensures the layers cook thoroughly and lock in moisture.
After about 30 minutes, removing the foil allows the top to brown beautifully. An additional 15-20 minutes of baking will yield a lasagna that’s bubbling and golden, making it hard to resist!
Serving and Enjoying
Once baked, let the lasagna sit for a few moments before slicing. This resting period allows the layers to set, making serving easier.
Garnishing with fresh basil leaves not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that enhances the overall flavor. Enjoy your slice of lasagna, knowing that each bite is a warm embrace of comfort and deliciousness.
Delicious Layered Lasagna with Meat and Cheese
This lasagna features a rich meat sauce made with ground beef and tomatoes, layered with a creamy béchamel sauce and topped with plenty of melted cheese. The dish is hearty, indulgent, and bursting with flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Ingredients
- 400g lasagna sheets
- 500g ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 800g canned chopped tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 50g butter
- 50g plain flour
- 600ml milk
- 100g grated Parmesan cheese
- 200g mozzarella cheese, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: In a large pot, heat some olive oil and brown the ground beef. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Make the Béchamel Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until thickened. Season with salt and stir in half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Layer the Lasagna: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a baking dish, start with a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of béchamel, a layer of lasagna sheets, and a layer of mozzarella. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with béchamel and a sprinkle of remaining Parmesan on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Serve: Allow the lasagna to sit for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 6 portions
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g