This Lasagna Bolognese is absolutely droolworthy! Homemade bolognese and bechamel sauces make this a lasagna you’ll never forget!
Folks. This Lasagna Bolognese. It’s amazing!
If you’re a regular follower of the blog, you know me pretty well by now right? Obviously, I love everything I share with you guys here at the BHK or I wouldn’t be sharing it, but seldom do I say it’s the best thing I’ve ever made.
Well, today I’m breaking tradition, because this Lasagna Bolognese is the BEST!
The Best Lasagna Bolognese Recipe
My love for bolognese sauce runs deep. It has always been one of my favorite comfort foods.
On the site, I’ve shared my Bucatini Bolognese and my Bolognese Bake, both total hits with my family and friends.
Bolognese Sauce Ingredients
- olive oil
- onions
- carrots
- celery
- garlic cloves
- pancetta
- meatloaf mix
- ground pork
- whole milk
- crushed tomatoes
- chicken stock
- white wine
- tomato paste
- salt and pepper
Bechamel Sauce Ingredients
- milk
- unsalted butter
- all-purpose flour
- kosher salt
- pepper
- nutmeg
Lasagna Ingredients
- fresh lasagna sheets
- shredded mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- unsalted butter
- fresh parsley
Do This If You Don’t Like Ricotta Cheese
When it comes to lasagna, for some crazy reason both my boys have an aversion to ricotta cheese, so I never make homemade lasagna with ricotta.
I make mine with a rich and creamy bechamel sauce. And I up the flavor by using my homemade bolognese instead of tomato sauce.
I use my regular recipe for bolognese sauce with a few minor tweaks. Take it from me, once you try lasagna this way, you’ll NEVER, ever turn back.
I’m not gonna lie, making homemade lasagna is somewhat labor intensive. There are a few steps that must be taken before it all comes so beautifully and deliciously together.
It’s perfect for feeding a crowd too. Enjoy!
A Few Cook’s Notes
What’s great about this recipe is that it can be made in advance. I make the bolognese sauce a day or two ahead of time so all the flavors meld together.
And you can assemble the lasagna in the morning, cover it with foil and place in the refrigerator before you’re ready to bake it.
More Italian Recipes to Enjoy
Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Italian Sausage Broccoli Rabe Onions and Peppers
Lasagna Bolognese
Print Recipe Pin RecipeIngredients
Bolognese Sauce:
- 3 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups onions, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cup carrots, finely chopped
- 2 cups celery, finely chopped
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 ounces pancetta, finely chopped
- 1 pound meatloaf mix, beef/pork/veal
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken stock
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 6 oz. can tomato paste
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1 tsp. ground pepper
Bechamel Sauce:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup one stick unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- 1/8 tsp. nutmeg
Lasagna:
- 1 lb. fresh lasagna sheets
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 Tbsp. unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- Garnish: 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped, if desired
Instructions
Bolognese Sauce:
- Heat oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add onions, carrots, celery and garlic. Saute for about 10 minutes until vegetables begin to brown.
- Increase the heat to high and add the pancetta. Saute for 3 minutes. Add the meatloaf mix and the ground pork and continue to cook until meat is no longer pink, breaking up meat with a fork.
- Add the milk and cook, stirring often until most of the milk is cooked down, about 15 minutes.
- Add the tomatoes, chicken stock and white wine. Reduce heat to medium low and simmer for 1 hour, uncovered, stirring occasionally.
- Add the tomato paste and mix until incorporated. Continue to cook for 20 more minutes. Season with the salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
Bechamel Sauce:
- Add the milk to a medium saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. In another saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 1 minute, whisking often.
- Slowly whisk in the milk a ladle at a time. Increase the heat to medium low and simmer, whisking often until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 5 minutes. Add salt, pepper and nutmeg.
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Spray a large deep 13x9 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Assembling the Lasagna:
- Spread about 3/4 cup bolognese in bottom of dish. Top with lasagna sheets overlapping slightly. I used O'Sole Mio fresh lasagna sheets from my grocery's refrigerated section. The sheets are about 5x9 inches. For each layer of pasta I used three sheets. Two full sheets, and then I cut another sheet into two pieces to cover the additional space.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of the parmesan and 3/4 cup of the shredded mozzarella. Top with about 2 cups of the bolognese, spreading with a rubber spatula, then 1 cup of the bechamel, also spreading with the rubber spatula to the edges.
- Repeat pasta, parm, mozzarella, bolognese, bechamel two more times.
- Finish with a layer of pasta, the remaining bechamel, and then the remaining bolognese. I like to place a few scoops of the bolognese randomly on top of the bechamel and then just slightly spread.
- Then sprinkle remaining shredded mozzarella, also in random clumps here and there on top, then a sprinkle of the remaining parm. Dot the top of the lasagna with the small cubes of butter.
- Cover with foil and place baking dish on a large baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes covered, then remove the foil and continue to bake for 15 minutes uncovered until lightly browned and until the sauce is bubbly. Let stand for 10 minutes, then sprinkle with parsley, if desired.
- Cut into squares and serve immediately.
Notes
- Make the bolognese sauce a day or two ahead of time so all the flavors meld together.
- Assemble the lasagna in the morning, cover it with foil and place in the refrigerator before you're ready to bake it.
- Use homemade bolognese instead of tomato sauce for the richer taste.
- This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd too.
Dawn - Girl Heart Food
I believe you, I believe you! I mean, everything you make looks absolutely delicious, but this is seriously making me want to jump right through my screen, lol. I could do some serious damage to this pan of lasagna, my friend ;) Pinned! Have a great weekend! XO
Mary Ann
My husband Tom LOVES this lasagna Dawn! It really is so delicious with my homemade bolognese sauce and bechamel! Thanks for pinning! Have an awesome weekend!
Lucy
Can you add a layer of ricotta cheese to this
Mary Ann
Hi Lucy. I substituted the bechamel sauce for the ricotta. I don’t think you’ll miss the ricotta. The bechamel totally makes this dish!
Cheyanne @ No Spoon Necessary
Holy smokes, Mare!!! This isn’t your average lasagna for sure! This is just EPIC!! I haven’t had breakfast yet, and now I’m craving this hearty deliciousness! Seriously, send napkins, because I’m drooling like a rabid dog! Pinning to try! Cheers!! xo
Mary Ann
I don’t make it that often, but when I do I wonder why?! It’s sooooo good Chey! Thanks for pinning love!
Jennifer @ Seasons and Suppers
Lasagna perfection! Love a bechamel lasagna. Will be making this one soon :)
Mary Ann
Oh, I’m so happy Jennifer! You are going to LOVE it!
Kelsie | the itsy-bitsy kitchen
I can’t remember the last time I made (or ate) lasagna, which is terrible because it’s one of my favorite meals. Your idea of making this for Valentine’s Day is perfect. . .but I might make it this weekend too. You know, just to practice :).
Mary Ann
Practice make perfect Kelsie! Enjoy!
annie@ciaochowbambina
A definite labor of love! And you have done many an Italian grandmother proud!! <3
Mary Ann
Thanks Annie!
Leigh Ann
Wow this really is epic lasagna! I would love to have this for dinner tonight!
Mary Ann
Wish we were neighbors Leigh Ann! I’d share!
Tanya
Mary Ann,
Thank you so much for posting this delicious lasagna recipe! I am so excited to share this with my family!
Mary Ann
You’re so welcome Tanya! I guarantee it’ll be a hit! Tell everyone to bring their appetite. This is one comforting and hearty dish! Happy weekend! XO
Deepika|TheLoveOfCakes
It looks and sounds so delicious! I can see it’s a bit of extra effort, but those pictures make me believe it’s worth it!! I love a good lasagna and it doesn’t get better than this!
Mary Ann
It takes a bit of extra effort but it definitely is so worth it Deepika!
Gerlinde@Sunnycovechef
Mary Ann you can read my mind, my brother and his wife are here and they are good eaters. This lasagna is perfect for them. It looks delicious.
Mary Ann
Oh, they’ll just love it Gerlinde! Worth the effort! Enjoy and have fun!
Debs
Absolutely love this Mary Ann. I’m a huge lasagna fan, but my husband hates cheese so I’ll get this all to myself! Gorgeous!
Mary Ann
Enjoy Debs! It’s going to require extra work at the gym, but soooo worth it!
Debs
That’s okay. The gym and I have been strangers for quite some time now!
Mary Ann
Lol!
Traci | Vanilla And Bean
lol!!! :D
Kevin | Kevin Is Cooking
Do you deliver?
Mary Ann
Lol! Wouldn’t it be great if we were neighbors Kevin?!
Marissa
This lasagna looks absolutely divine! And though it does take some effort (totally worth it!), using fresh pasta sheets is a nice way to skip a step while actually adding to the flavor!
Mary Ann
Yes, using the fresh pasta sheets was a time saver Marissa!
Tieghan Gerard
This looks so delicious and I love bolognese sauce!! Just perfect for Valentine’s Day dinner!
Mary Ann
Me too Tieghan, and I agree. My husband Tom would love it if I made this again for Valentine’s Day!
Sarah Fennel
Oh YUM. I think I need this ASAP.
Mary Ann
You do Sarah! Swap you some for some of your brownies??
Asha Shivakumar
That looks so so good and I’m sure my boys will love it with bechamel. That top is simply so tempting. Love it my dear.
Mary Ann
Thanks Asha! My boys love this one!
Jennifer Farley
A lovely lasagna recipe!
Mary Ann
Thanks Jennifer!
Gina @Running to the Kitchen
This looks so incredibly comforting! I would totally love it!
Mary Ann
It’s the most comforting dish Gina! Perfect for the winter!
Alida | Simply Delicious
It’s a classic for a reason and your version looks amazing!
Mary Ann
Thanks Alida!
Katherine | Love In My Oven
Ok, now I know exactly where to go the next time I want to blow my husband’s socks off!! This lasagna looks just plain epic!! I usually do use ricotta cheese, but I’m no stranger to béchamel so I just know we’d all LOVE this. Mmm!
Mary Ann
I know you and the hubs will love it Katherine!
Traci | Vanilla And Bean
I find there are recipes that are just worth all the effort to make it happen and this one looks over the top incredible! I get what your boys mean about ricotta. I used to not be a fan, and only like it in some lasagna recipes (and other dips). But my mouth is totally watering over that Bechamel sauce! Come to mamma!!! I gotta get on board for V day! Well done my dear!
Mary Ann
Thanks Traci! I don’t mind ricotta, but the bechamel is amazing! It does take some extra time to put a good lasagna together, but it’s always so worth it. Happy weekend!
naomi
This looks so incredible, MaryAnn. This may just have to make an appearance next to some nachos for Super Bowl!
Mary Ann
I guarantee it will be a hit Naomi!
Matt Robinson
Absolutely love this, so comforting and makes for the perfect weeknight meal
Mary Ann
Thanks Matt! Great as leftovers too!
Laura | Tutti Dolci
This looks incredible (and absolutely the best!) – such a perfect comfort meal!
Mary Ann
Thanks Laura! It was worth every single calorie. Sometimes we have to treat ourselves!
Kathy @ Beyond the Chicken Coop
I saw this come up on my facebook feed and I instantly said “YUM!” I love lasagna and this looks amazing! Such wonderful comfort food that is loved by all!
Mary Ann
I agree! It’s one of my all time fave comfort foods Kathy!
Lindsay Cotter
This is the ultimate comfort food dinner! I’m sure this is on repeat!!
Mary Ann
Thanks Lindsay!
Chris Scheuer
This is spectaccular Mary Ann and you took such beautiful images. It has definitely made my mouth water and crave lasagna!
Mary Ann
Thanks Chris! We really enjoy this lasagna!
Matt
Great Recipe! This truly is a labor of love. I love how it’s all fresh from scratch recipes (no powdered/dried spices), I bet this has such a depth of flavor! Looks like it takes time to get to the end result but wowza I bet its awesome! Thanks for sharing :)
Mary Ann
Thanks Matt! I don’t mind the time that goes into this one, because it’s such a treat! And the leftovers are amazing!
Geraldine | Green Valley Kitchen
Drool worthy is right, Mary Ann – when I saw this on IG it was a show stopper! Such great pictures! And I don’t mind a labor intensive recipe now and then – especially on a lazy sunday – it’s a good way to spend the day!
Mary Ann
Awww, thanks so much Geraldine! It’s fun to make this one on the weekend. Keeps me busy, and makes Tom happy when I serve it up!
Emily
Indeed, Mary Anne, this looks like the very best lasagna. :) I bet the fresh lasagna with your wonderful sounding bolognese makes this worth every bit of prep time. And I spy the most adorable little mouse salt shaker! Where did you find something so cute?!
Mary Ann
Worth every minute Emily! I got that so long ago, I’m not even sure where I got it! Thanks so much Emily.
Carla Simpatia
I did it yesterday and my family loved it, thank you for sharing this wonderful recipe.
Mary Ann
I’m sooooo excited you all enjoyed it Carla!! Thanks for taking the time to stop by and leave a comment!
Hilary
Where can you find fresh lasagna sheets? I can’t wait to try this
Mary Ann
Hi Hilary. They’re in the refrigerated section of the supermarket with the refrigerated tortellini and other pastas. You’re going to LOVE this. It takes time, but it’s so worth it! Enjoy!
Jonathan Gustafson
I know this has been up for a few years but this has become my go-to for lasagna. Few things I did was added minced garlic to the butter in the béchamel sauce. Let it Sautee for a few minutes and really gives the sauce some garlic flavor. Next I add an extra pound of meat and boost the liquids a bit. I like a really saucey lasagna myself. Last I add in Fontana cheese. Turns out amazing.
Mary Ann
Hi Jonathan! I’m so happy you enjoy this recipe! And I love your change ups. This recipe takes time, but it’s so worth it. I don’t think I’ve ever served it to anyone who hasn’t loved it. Thanks so much for taking the time to drop a comment and for following along here at the BHK. Have a very Happy Holiday!
Helena
I’ve got to admit – I have been making lasagna so often that I had to stop at some point. But your recipe made me excited about making it again – so delicious!
Mary Ann
This one is a labor of love, but soooo worth it! My boys don’t love ricotta, so they love the bechamel substitute!
Coleen
What exactly is the meatloaf mix. What does it consist of?
Mary Ann
Hi Colleen. Meatloaf mix can be found at your market and it’s a combination of ground beef, pork and veal.