Craving Lasagna? Here’s the Foolproof Recipe to Make Beef Lasagna with White Sauce at Home

Indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic lasagna, reimagined with a velvety white sauce. This step-by-step guide will empower you to craft a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your dinner guests.

Ingredients:

For the Beef Sauce:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the White Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Lasagna:

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

Making the Beef Sauce:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until thickened.

Making the White Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

Assembling the Lasagna:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread 1 cup of the beef sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Top with 4 lasagna noodles.
4. Spread with 1/2 of the remaining beef sauce.
5. Top with 1/2 of the white sauce.
6. Repeat layers.
7. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.

Baking the Lasagna:

1. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for a Perfect Lasagna:

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the noodles. They should be al dente when you add them to the lasagna.
• Let the lasagna rest before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauces.

Variations:

• Add vegetables to the beef sauce, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Use a different type of cheese, such as ricotta or cottage cheese, in the white sauce.
• Make a vegetarian lasagna by using vegetable broth instead of beef broth and replacing the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.

Final Thoughts:

With this detailed guide, you can now master the art of crafting a mouthwatering beef lasagna with white sauce. From the hearty beef sauce to the creamy white sauce, every layer of this classic dish will tantalize your taste buds. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave your family and friends craving for more.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I make the lasagna ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Q: What can I do if I don’t have a lasagna baking dish?
A: You can use a large rectangular baking dish or even a 9×13 inch cake pan.

Q: Can I freeze the lasagna?
A: Yes, you can freeze the lasagna for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.