Name: Festive Lasagna Bolognese with Basil Pesto Ricotta Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h 55 min
Total time: 3 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Nonstick cooking spray; One 13.2-ounce box DeLallo No-Boil Lasagna noodles; 24 ounces shredded low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella cheese (about 6 cups); 12 ounces Italian cheese blend, such as asiago, parmesan, etc. (about 3 cups); 2 large carrots, roughly chopped; 1 stalk celery, roughly chopped; 1 large yellow onion, roughly chopped; 6 cloves garlic; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; One 6-ounce can tomato paste; 1 cup medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti; 3–4 sprigs fresh rosemary; 10–12 sprigs fresh thyme; 2 bay leaves; Optional: 1 parmesan rind; One 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes; 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water; ½ cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated parmesan; Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season; 15 ounces ricotta cheese, whole milk or part-skim as desired; One 6.3-ounce jar DeLallo Simply Basil Pesto; 2 large eggs; ½ cup grated parmesan; Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 88 reviews

If you’re looking to impress friends and family with a dish bursting with rich flavors and festive flair, this Festive Lasagna Bolognese with Basil Pesto Ricotta Recipe is an absolute showstopper. Layered with a hearty, slow-simmered Bolognese sauce, creamy basil pesto-infused ricotta, and a melty blend of cheeses, this lasagna is all about comfort elevated to a celebration-worthy level. Whether you’re gathering for a holiday, a special occasion, or simply to enjoy a comforting meal, this recipe combines classic Italian techniques with vibrant twists that make every bite memorable and joyful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white pot filled with thick meat sauce that is rich red with chunks and a wooden spoon resting inside. Next to the pot, there are several long, flat, yellow lasagna sheets with ruffled edges arranged horizontally on a white marbled surface. To the upper right, a clear glass bowl holds a creamy light green mixture with a smooth, swirled texture. Below it, another clear bowl contains finely shredded white cheese. The white marbled surface contrasts with the colors of the ingredients, making them stand out clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients for this Festive Lasagna Bolognese with Basil Pesto Ricotta Recipe is simpler than you might think. Each element is carefully chosen to create a harmonious blend of tastes and textures—from the fresh herbs in the Bolognese to the creamy, slightly tangy punch of pesto in the ricotta.

Nonstick cooking spray: Essential for greasing your baking dish and preventing the lasagna from sticking.
13.2-ounce box DeLallo No-Boil Lasagna: These sheets save time with no pre-cooking required yet absorb sauce beautifully.
Best-Ever Bolognese Sauce ingredients: Carrots, celery, yellow onion, garlic, olive oil, ground beef, tomato paste, red wine, fresh rosemary, thyme, bay leaves, optional parmesan rind, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, kosher salt, and ground black pepper—each adds layers of richness and depth.
Basil pesto ricotta components: Ricotta cheese, DeLallo Simply Basil Pesto, eggs, parmesan, kosher salt, and ground black pepper—combines creaminess with herbaceous brightness.
24 ounces shredded low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella cheese: Provides that irresistible golden melt.
12 ounces Italian cheese blend (asiago, parmesan, etc.): Adds complexity and a savory finish to every layer.

How to Make Festive Lasagna Bolognese with Basil Pesto Ricotta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Best-Ever Bolognese Sauce

Start by chopping carrots, celery, onion, and garlic roughly, as these will form the aromatic base of your sauce. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then cook the ground beef until browned but still juicy. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté until softened. Stir in tomato paste, allowing it to caramelize slightly for added depth, then pour in the red wine and let it reduce to concentrate the flavors. Add fresh rosemary, thyme, bay leaves, and for an umami boost, toss in the optional parmesan rind. Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, and let it simmer gently for at least an hour. Finish by stirring in heavy cream for a velvety finish and grated parmesan. This slow simmer builds the heart and soul of your lasagna.

Step 2: Make the Basil Pesto Ricotta Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with the jar of basil pesto. Whisk in eggs to help bind the mixture, then add grated parmesan followed by seasoning with salt and pepper. This mixture brings a refreshing herbal lift and creamy contrast to the rich Bolognese layers, making each forkful sing with freshness and texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven and prepare your baking dish with a light coating of nonstick cooking spray. Start with a thin layer of Bolognese sauce at the bottom to prevent sticking. Layer no-boil lasagna sheets over the sauce, then spread a generous amount of the basil pesto ricotta mixture evenly. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Italian cheese blend. Repeat these layers, finishing with a topping of sauce and cheese to create that irresistibly golden crust. Layering properly ensures every slice has a perfect balance of sauce, cheese, and pasta.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the lasagna with foil to keep it moist, then bake in a preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 15 minutes to allow the cheese to bubble and brown beautifully. Let the lasagna rest briefly after baking to ease slicing and allow the flavors to meld spectacularly, elevating this dish from amazing to unforgettable.

How to Serve Festive Lasagna Bolognese with Basil Pesto Ricotta Recipe

The image shows a rectangular metal baking tray filled with a layered dish that appears to have three main layers: the bottom layer is a rich red tomato sauce with some visible texture, the middle layer is thick and green, likely a pesto or spinach-based mix, and the top layer is melted white cheese that covers the entire surface unevenly with some golden brown spots where it bubbled and browned. Scattered on top of the cheese are small green herb leaves and red chili flakes adding color contrast. One corner has a square piece removed, revealing the thick layers inside. The tray sits on a white marbled surface with some fresh herbs and small bowls partly visible around it. The scene includes a black and white checkered cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing your Festive Lasagna Bolognese with Basil Pesto Ricotta Recipe can add a lovely final touch. Scatter a handful of fresh basil leaves or finely chopped parsley over the top for vibrant color and a fresh aroma. A light dusting of extra parmesan right before serving gives it that authentic Italian flair.

Side Dishes

Pairing this hearty lasagna with crisp salads, such as a simple arugula with lemon vinaigrette, balances the richness wonderfully. Roasted seasonal vegetables or garlic bread also complement the layers with crunchy texture and flavor contrast, enhancing the meal without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving this lasagna in individual ramekins for a stylish, personalized touch at your table. Alternatively, slice it into squares and stack for towering portions that showcase the striking layers. Whether family-style or plated elegantly, this festive dish shines in any presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Festive Lasagna Bolognese with Basil Pesto Ricotta Recipe keeps beautifully covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its fresh flavors and creamy textures, making for easy reheats that taste just as delightful as the first serving.

Freezing

Freeze portions in airtight containers or tightly wrapped foil for up to 2 months. Freezing is a fantastic way to prepare the dish in advance and enjoy homemade lasagna anytime without sacrificing quality. Just be sure to label and date your servings for convenience.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen lasagna overnight in the fridge if possible. Warm individual slices in the oven at 350°F until heated through and bubbly, or microwave covered in short bursts to maintain moisture without drying. Reheating gently ensures every layer stays creamy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of meat for the Bolognese sauce?

Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional and hearty, you can substitute ground pork, veal, turkey, or a combination of meats to customize the flavor and texture to your liking.

Is it necessary to use no-boil lasagna sheets?

No-boil sheets simplify the process, but you can definitely use regular lasagna noodles. Just remember to boil them according to package instructions before assembling your lasagna.

Can I make the basil pesto ricotta from scratch?

You sure can! Homemade basil pesto adds an extra fresh and vibrant flavor. Blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan, and olive oil to your preferred consistency and mix it into the ricotta for a personalized twist.

What can I do if I don’t have red wine for the sauce?

If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with additional chicken broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar to maintain acidity and depth. Just keep in mind that wine adds a unique richness that’s tough to replicate exactly.

How long can I keep the assembled lasagna before baking?

You can assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it an excellent dish to prepare in advance for gatherings or busy days.

Final Thoughts

This Festive Lasagna Bolognese with Basil Pesto Ricotta Recipe is genuinely one of those dishes that brings warmth, joy, and a sense of celebration right to your dining table. With every layer offering a new, delightful flavor and texture, it’s easy to see why this recipe stands out as a beloved favorite. Don’t hesitate to make it your own and share it with the people you love—it’s a true crowd-pleaser you’ll return to again and again.

Festive Lasagna Bolognese with Basil Pesto Ricotta Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Festive Lasagna Bolognese with Basil Pesto Ricotta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Best-Ever Bolognese Sauce