Authentic Italian Beef Lasagna Recipe – Like an Italian!
If you're looking for the ultimate homemade beef lasagna that’s packed with rich flavors and creamy goodness, this authentic Italian recipe is just what you need. Inspired by Vincenzo’s Plate, this dish highlights traditional techniques, quality ingredients, and the importance of patience in cooking. Let’s dive into making a mouthwatering Italian beef lasagna that’s cheesy, hearty, and absolutely irresistible!
Why This Recipe is Special
Uses fresh lasagna sheets for an authentic texture.
Features a slow-cooked beef and pork sauce for deep flavors.
Includes a homemade béchamel sauce for creaminess.
Made with three types of cheese for the perfect balance.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the Meat Sauce:
500g beef (or a mix of veal and pork), ground
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
1/2 cup red wine
2 cups homemade tomato sauce (or canned crushed tomatoes)
Salt & pepper, to taste
For the Béchamel Sauce:
50g butter
50g flour
500ml milk
Pinch of nutmeg
Salt, to taste
For Assembly:
Fresh lasagna sheets
100g provolone cheese, sliced
100g buffalo mozzarella, shredded
50g pecorino or parmesan cheese, grated
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce
1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrot, and celery to create a flavorful soffritto. Cook until soft.
3. Add ground beef (or a mix of veal and pork) and cook until browned.
4. Pour in red wine and let it evaporate, infusing the meat with rich flavor.
5. Stir in tomato sauce, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for at least 2 hours to develop deep flavors.
2. Make the Béchamel Sauce
1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add flour and stir continuously until smooth.
3. Gradually whisk in warm milk, ensuring no lumps form.
4. Add a pinch of nutmeg and a little salt for flavor. Cook until thick and creamy.
3. Assemble the Lasagna
1. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
2. Place a layer of fresh lasagna sheets on top.
3. Add another layer of meat sauce, béchamel, and cheese (provolone, mozzarella, and pecorino/parmesan).
4. Repeat the process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a cheese topping.
4. Bake to Perfection
1. Cover with foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil, sprinkle extra parmesan or pecorino, and bake uncovered for 10 minutes until golden brown.
3. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Final Thoughts
This authentic Italian beef lasagna is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. The slow-cooked sauce, fresh pasta, and perfect blend of cheeses make it a standout dish. Take your time, enjoy the process, and treat yourself to a true Italian classic.
Buon Appetito!
Let me know if you’d like me to add anything!
