Name: Homemade Authentic Italian Lasagna to Warm Your Heart
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 135 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Use salted butter if not available); 1 Carrot (Diced); 1 Red Onion (Finely chopped); 1 pound Ground Pork (Can substitute with beef or a mix); 1 cup Full-bodied Dry Red Wine (Or broth for a non-alcoholic version); 2 cans Canned Whole Peeled Tomatoes (Can substitute with fresh tomatoes when in season); 2 cups 00' Soft Wheat Flour (Can substitute with all-purpose flour); 2 Whole Eggs (Plus 2 egg yolks); ½ teaspoon Fine Sea Salt; Semolina Flour Semolina Flour (For dusting); 3 cups Whole Milk (Low-fat can be used); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter; ⅓ cup All-Purpose Flour (Acts as a thickening agent); 1 pinch Ground Nutmeg (Can be replaced with white pepper); 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Can substitute with Pecorino Romano)

As I stirred the bubbling pot of homemade bolognese on a chilly Sunday afternoon, the intoxicating aroma drew my kids into the kitchen, ready for their favorite treat: Authentic Italian Lasagna. This layered masterpiece, brimming with rich flavors and creamy béchamel nestled between homemade pasta sheets, is much more than just a meal—it’s a delightful experience worth sharing. Not only is this dish a testament to traditional Italian cooking, but it also brings the family together, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or comforting nights in. Plus, with the satisfaction of crafting it from scratch, you’ll find there’s a joy in making something so delicious that can elevate any dinner table. Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and indulge in a culinary adventure?

Why is Homemade Lasagna So Special?

Authenticity: This recipe captures the essence of traditional Italian cuisine, making every bite a celebration of heritage.

Layered Perfection: Each layer of rich bolognese and creamy béchamel creates a delightful experience that tantalizes the taste buds.

Family-Friendly: It’s a dish that brings everyone together, sparking joy and laughter around the dinner table.

Homemade Goodness: Crafting pasta and sauces from scratch adds a personal touch, ensuring a fresh and flavorful result that store-bought can’t compete with.

Versatility: Feel free to customize by swapping proteins or adding veggies, as seen in recipes like the Mexican Lasagna Twist.

Dive into this heartwarming dish and discover why it’s a beloved classic!

Authentic Italian Lasagna Ingredients

For the Bolognese Sauce

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to both the bolognese and béchamel sauces; use salted butter if not available, adjusting the salt in your recipe.
Carrots – Serve as a natural sweetness base for the bolognese; can replace with other aromatic vegetables if desired.
Red Onion – Provides depth of flavor in the bolognese; shallots can also be a great alternative.
Ground Pork – The primary protein that gives a deep flavor to the bolognese; try ground beef or a mix for a different taste.
Full-bodied Dry Red Wine – Enhances the flavor of the bolognese sauce; broth can be used for a non-alcoholic option, but the flavor will differ.
Canned Whole Peeled Tomatoes – Form the base of the bolognese; fresh tomatoes work in season but canned yield consistent flavor.

For the Pasta Sheets

00′ Soft Wheat Flour – Essential for the homemade pasta, providing the right structure; all-purpose flour can substitute but may yield a denser texture.
Whole Eggs and Egg Yolks – Contribute richness and elasticity to the pasta; you can use extra whole eggs if you’re short on yolks.
Fine Sea Salt – Enhances flavor in your pasta dough; no direct substitutes are needed.
Semolina Flour – Used for dusting and preventing sticking; essential for achieving the perfect pasta texture.

For the Béchamel Sauce

Whole Milk – Critical for a creamy béchamel; low-fat milk can be used, just expect a lighter texture.
Heavy Cream – Adds extra creaminess to your béchamel; omitting this will result in a thinner sauce.
All-Purpose Flour – Acts as a thickening agent; no substitutions are needed unless for gluten allergies.
Ground Nutmeg – Adds warmth to the béchamel; can be replaced with white pepper if desired.

For the Final Layers

Parmesan Cheese – Provides a salty depth and richness; substitute with Pecorino Romano for a different flavor profile.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Authentic Italian Lasagna

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfectly cooked and bubbling lasagna at the end of your culinary adventure. As the oven warms, gather your baking dishes and ensure you have a sturdy wooden spoon for stirring your sauces throughout the process.

Step 2: Prepare the Bolognese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped red onion and diced carrots, cooking for about 5–7 minutes until softened. Next, stir in 1 pound of ground pork, cooking until browned. Deglaze the pan with 1 cup of full-bodied red wine, letting it simmer until reduced by half. Finally, add 2 cans of crushed tomatoes, reduce the heat, and let the sauce simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens.

Step 3: Make Pasta Sheets
While your bolognese sauce is simmering, prepare your pasta for the lasagna. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of 00′ soft wheat flour and ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt. Make a well in the center and crack in 2 whole eggs along with 2 egg yolks. Mix until a dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth. Roll the dough into thin sheets, about 1 mm thick, using a pasta machine and dust with semolina flour to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Create the Béchamel Sauce
To make the béchamel sauce, heat 3 cups of whole milk in a saucepan over medium heat, whisking in a pinch of ground nutmeg. In another skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter, then whisk in 1/3 cup of all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes until golden. Gradually pour in the hot milk, stirring continuously until thickened, approximately 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Layer the Lasagna
Now, assemble your authentic Italian lasagna! Start by spreading ½ cup of béchamel sauce across the bottom of two 9-inch baking dishes. Layer your homemade pasta sheets over the sauce, followed by a generous portion of bolognese, another layer of béchamel, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Repeat this process for two more layers, finishing with a layer of pasta topped with the remaining béchamel and parmesan.

Step 6: Bake the Lasagna
Cover each baking dish with aluminum foil and place them in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully. After this time, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15–20 minutes until the lasagna is bubbly and golden brown on top, creating a gorgeous crust that entices the senses.

Step 7: Let it Rest
Once out of the oven, allow your authentic Italian lasagna to rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the layers set beautifully, making serving effortless and the presentation stunning. Enjoy the warmth and aromas that fill your kitchen, perfect for a heartwarming meal to share with family and friends.

Make Ahead Options

These Authentic Italian Lasagna layers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance and simply refrigerate it, tightly covered, to preserve freshness. Prepare the bolognese and béchamel sauces, make the pasta sheets, and layer them in your baking dishes, but wait to sprinkle the parmesan until just before baking. When you’re ready to serve, preheat the oven and bake for about 45-60 minutes (adding about 10-15 minutes if cooking straight from the fridge). This way, you’ll enjoy the same restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making dinnertime a breeze on busy nights!

What to Serve with Authentic Italian Lasagna

To elevate your meal experience alongside this hearty, layered delight, consider these complementary dishes and beverages that will warm your heart and complete your table.

Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery slices infused with garlic essence are perfect for mopping up creamy béchamel and savory sauce.
Mixed Green Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a zingy vinaigrette add a bright contrast to the richness of the lasagna, balancing flavors beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: Tossed in olive oil and seasoned with herbs, colorful roasted veggies provide a delightful crunch and natural sweetness alongside each bite.
Bruschetta: Crispy bread topped with marinated tomatoes and basil offers a refreshing bite that enhances the Italian flavors of your meal.
Tiramisu: End on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, featuring coffee-soaked layers and mascarpone cream that perfectly complements the hearty lasagna.
Chianti Wine: A glass of this full-bodied red wine pairs beautifully, enhancing the robust flavors of the bolognese and adding a touch of Italian tradition to your dining experience.

Indulging in these delightful sides will not only round out your feast but also create a memorable culinary adventure for your family.

Expert Tips for Authentic Italian Lasagna

Pasta Sheet Thickness: Aim for about 1 mm thickness with your pasta. Too thick, and your lasagna may be gummy; too thin could lead to breakage.
Simmer the Bolognese: Allow your bolognese to simmer for at least 30 minutes. This deepens flavors and ensures a rich taste in your authentic Italian lasagna.
Béchamel Consistency: Whisk continuously while making béchamel to avoid lumps. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk to adjust.
Layering Technique: Ensure each layer is adequately covered with sauce. This prevents dry pasta layers and keeps everything moist and delicious.
Resting Time: Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape and makes serving easier.

How to Store and Freeze Authentic Italian Lasagna

Fridge: Store baked lasagna in an airtight container for up to 6 days. Alternatively, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
Freezer: You can freeze assembled, uncooked lasagna for up to 3 months. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat frozen lasagna, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes or until warmed through. For baked leftovers, microwave in slices or warm in the oven until heated completely.
Make-Ahead Tip: Lasagna can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated until ready to bake, saving you time on busy days while ensuring a delightful homemade dish.

Authentic Italian Lasagna Variations

Feel free to explore new flavors and textures by customizing your lasagna masterpiece!

Ground Meat Swap: Use ground beef or a mix of meats to alter the flavor profile. Mixing different meats can create a richer taste, adding variety to your dish.
Vegetarian Option: Replace all meat with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or grilled zucchini for a delicious veggie lasagna. This twist keeps the comfort without the meat, making it a favorite for non-meat eaters.
Cheesy Addition: Incorporate low-moisture mozzarella along with parmesan for a stretchy, gooey texture. This little change can truly transform your lasagna into a cheese lover’s dream!
Herbed Twist: Add fresh basil or oregano to the bolognese sauce for an extra burst of flavor. The freshness of herbs creates an aromatic experience that elevates the entire dish.
Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes into your bolognese for a touch of heat. If you enjoy a bit of spice, this simple addition can take your lasagna to a new level of enjoyment!
Creamy Upgrade: Swap half of the whole milk in the béchamel for heavy cream for even more indulgence. The richness of cream gives a luxurious feel that’ll make each bite irresistible!
Nut-Free Version: For a nut-free béchamel, simply omit the nutmeg and use white pepper for seasoning. It maintains the flavor without compromising on the creamy experience.
Fusion Flavor: Try a twist on Italian with a dash of taco seasoning in your bolognese for a fun take, inspired by the flavors of the Italian Beef Sandwich. Who says lasagna can’t have a playful side?

Explore these variations for your own personalized version of authentic Italian lasagna, and delight your family with something new!

Authentic Italian Lasagna Recipe FAQs

What type of tomatoes should I use for the Bolognese sauce?
Using canned whole peeled tomatoes is ideal for making a consistent and flavorful Bolognese sauce. Fresh tomatoes can be substituted during their peak season, but the flavor from canned tomatoes provides a reliable base for year-round cooking.

How long can I store my baked lasagna in the fridge?
Baked lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 6 days. Make sure it’s properly covered to maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors from your refrigerator.

Can I freeze my lasagna, and how?
Absolutely! You can freeze assembled, uncooked lasagna for up to 3 months. Simply wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. To bake, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

What if my Béchamel sauce turns lumpy?
If your Béchamel sauce turns lumpy, don’t worry! You can whisk vigorously to break down the lumps. If it’s too thick, gradually add more warm milk while whisking until you reach your desired consistency. Continuous whisking while cooking helps prevent this issue.

Are there any dietary tips for this lasagna?
If you have dietary restrictions, such as gluten sensitivity, consider using gluten-free pasta sheets and flour for your sauces. For dairy-free options, substitute whole milk and cream with plant-based alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream, adjusting the quantities for desired richness. Just keep in mind that flavors might vary slightly!

What do I do if my lasagna appears too dry after baking?
To avoid dry lasagna, ensure that every layer of pasta is properly covered with sauce. If your lasagna seems dry post-baking, a drizzle of olive oil or a spoonful of sauce can help add moisture before serving. Enjoy every cheesy bite!