Classic Bolognese Lasagna is a beloved Italian dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. This layered pasta dish features rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for family gatherings, dinner parties, or a cozy night in.
Table of Contents
Why Make This Recipe
Making Classic Bolognese Lasagna is great for several reasons. First, it’s a crowd-pleaser that satisfies both adults and kids. Second, it’s a wonderful way to use up pasta and cheese. Finally, preparing this lasagna allows you to bring a piece of Italy into your kitchen, filling your home with delicious aromas and warmth.
How to Make Classic Bolognese Lasagna
Creating your own Classic Bolognese Lasagna at home is simple and rewarding. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can whip up this hearty dish that will impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom. Create a layer of noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta cheese over the noodles, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
- Repeat the layering with the remaining ingredients, ending with a layer of sauce and mozzarella on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Classic Bolognese Lasagna
Serve your Classic Bolognese Lasagna hot, straight from the oven. You can cut it into squares for easy servings. Pair it with a fresh green salad and some garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
How to Store Classic Bolognese Lasagna
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Classic Bolognese Lasagna will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it before baking; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months.
Tips to Make Classic Bolognese Lasagna
- Make your marinara sauce from scratch for a fresher taste.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving to make it easier to cut.
- Experiment with adding vegetables between layers, like spinach or zucchini, for extra nutrition.
Variation
For a meatier version, include ground beef or sausage in your sauce while cooking the onions. This addition gives the lasagna a heartier flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, you can use no-boil noodles for convenience. Just layer them directly into the sauce without pre-cooking.
2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply skip any meat in the sauce and load up on vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers instead.
3. Can I prepare the lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Classic Bolognese Lasagna
Ingredients
For the Sauce and Filling
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
For the Lasagna
- 12 pieces lasagna noodles Use regular or no-boil noodles
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Assembly
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
- Create a layer of noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta cheese over the noodles, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
- Repeat the layering with the remaining ingredients, ending with a layer of sauce and mozzarella on top.
Baking
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
