
Lasagna Bolognese is a warm, rich dish that brings comfort to any table. This layered pasta bake combines a slow-cooked meat sauce and a creamy béchamel for a deep, satisfying taste. The sauce fills the house with savory aroma while the oven melts cheese into a bubbly gold top. This recipe uses common pantry items and easy steps so cooks of all levels can make it. You will brown beef, stir tomatoes, and simmer to build flavor. Then you will layer noodles, sauce, and béchamel before baking until hot and fragrant. The dish holds well for family meals, and it makes good leftovers for the next day. Serve it with a simple green salad and a crusty loaf to soak up the sauce. Whether you cook for a weeknight or a small gathering, this lasagna offers a confident meal that feels homemade. The method is clear and steady, and the result is a plate that pleases slow cooks and quick cooks alike. The dish grows richer when made the day before, which helps the flavors come together well. It warms hearts and brings home joy.
Why You’ll Love This Lasagna Bolognese
This lasagna blends deep meat sauce and creamy white sauce for a full, warm taste. Layers of pasta lock in sauce so each bite stays rich. Cheese melts and browns into a golden top that people love. The recipe uses clear steps so you can cook it without stress. You can make the sauce ahead and save time on the day you bake. Leftovers taste even better after a night in the fridge. It feeds a family and works well for small groups. This dish feels like a special home meal that is not hard to make. Try it soon.
How to Make Lasagna Bolognese
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups Bolognese sauce
- 2 cups béchamel sauce
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, cook until browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of Bolognese sauce, followed by a layer of noodles, then a layer of béchamel sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with béchamel on top.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.
How to Serve Lasagna Bolognese
Serve slices hot with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Let each portion rest so the layers hold together when you cut. Use a wide spatula to lift pieces cleanly. Add fresh basil on top for color and a little fresh flavor.

How to Store Lasagna Bolognese
Cool the lasagna to room temperature before storing. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil or move portions to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or microwave single servings until heated through.
Tips for the Best Lasagna Bolognese
- Use a good, slow-simmered Bolognese for deeper flavor.
- Don’t overcook the noodles; they should hold shape for layering.
- Let the lasagna rest after baking so slices stay neat.
- Use fresh grated Parmesan for better melt and taste.
- If the top browns too fast, cover with foil and finish baking.
Recipe Variations (if any)
- Add vegetables like chopped mushrooms or diced carrots to the sauce for more texture.
- Swap part of the ground beef with ground turkey if you want a lighter version.
- Use whole wheat lasagna noodles for a heartier feel.
- Add a layer of spinach between the sauce and béchamel for more greens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make the lasagna a day ahead?
A: Yes. Make it, cool, then cover and chill. Bake the next day. Flavors often improve after resting.
Q: Can I freeze the lasagna?
A: Yes. Cool fully, wrap well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
Q: How do I reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or microwave single portions until warmed through.
Q: Can I use no-boil noodles?
A: Yes. Follow package directions and ensure you have enough sauce to cook the noodles.
Conclusion
For a classic home-style take and more tips on technique, see this detailed guide at smitten kitchen lasagna bolognese. If you want another full recipe to compare methods, try The Ultimate Homemade Lasagna Recipe | Maple + Mango.
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Lasagna Bolognese
A warm, rich layered pasta bake combining slow-cooked meat sauce and creamy béchamel for a comforting dish.
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups Bolognese sauce
- 2 cups béchamel sauce
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, cook until browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of Bolognese sauce, followed by a layer of noodles, then a layer of béchamel sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with béchamel on top.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.
Notes
For best results, let the lasagna rest after baking so slices stay neat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: None
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
