Name: Lasagna al Forno Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 1 h 45 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon olive oil; 1 Tablespoon garlic, minced fresh (3 to 5 cloves); ½ Cup carrot, chopped fine; ½ Cup celery, chopped fine; 1 Cup white onion, chopped fine (about ½ a large onion); 1 Pound ground beef, lean; 1 Cup red wine; 15 Ounces tomato sauce; 28 Ounces crushed tomatoes, canned; 3 Tablespoons tomato paste (45 ml); 2 Teaspoons Italian seasoning, dried; 3 Cups beef stock; 2 bay leaves; 1 Teaspoon salt; 1 Teaspoon black pepper; 4 Tablespoons butter; 4 Tablespoons all purpose flour; 3 Cups whole milk; 1/8 Teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ Cup parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 9 Ounce lasagna sheets, oven-ready (15 to 17 sheets); ½ Cup parmesan cheese, fresh grated, for topping; Basil or parsley, chopped fresh, optional garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 31 reviews

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If you’re craving a dish that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas and ends with a warm, comforting meal, this Lasagna al Forno Recipe is absolutely what you need. It’s a classic Italian masterpiece that layers rich, savory meat sauce with creamy béchamel and tender pasta sheets, baked to bubbly perfection. Lasagna al Forno Recipe is not just a dish; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings families and friends together around the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows many ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. There is a white plate with two types of ground meat, one reddish and one lighter pink, placed side by side. Around it are several small white bowls and clear glass bowls holding finely chopped white onions, diced orange carrots, and chopped green celery. Small white dishes contain minced garlic, dried herbs, black pepper, salt, bay leaves, and a small amount of ground spice. Two cans are open with one filled with a red sauce. A white rectangular dish holds a stack of pale yellow pasta sheets. There is a small white dish with a square piece of butter, a clear glass full of shredded cheese, and two clear measuring cups, one filled with a dark liquid and one with a creamy white liquid. A small glass cup contains olive oil, and another small white bowl has a reddish paste. The salt and pepper shakers are placed next to the shredded cheese. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients for this Lasagna al Forno Recipe is delightfully straightforward. Each component is simple yet essential, contributing vibrant flavors, richness, and that perfect texture contrast that makes every bite memorable.

Olive oil: Provides a fruity base for sautéing garlic and vegetables, boosting the depth of your meat sauce.
Fresh garlic (3 to 5 cloves, minced): Adds fragrant warmth that infuses every layer.
Carrot (½ cup, finely chopped): Brings subtle sweetness and texture to balance the savory meat.
Celery (½ cup, finely chopped): Offers a mild, aromatic crunch that rounds out the sauce.
White onion (1 cup, finely chopped): Builds savory sweetness and an essential flavor base.
Lean ground beef (1 pound): The hearty star of the meat sauce, grounding the dish with rich protein.
Red wine (1 cup): Adds acidity and complexity that elevate the tomato sauce beautifully.
Tomato sauce (15 ounces): Creates a smooth, tangy foundation for the sauce.
Canned crushed tomatoes (28 ounces): Provides fresh, vibrant tomato flavor and a slightly chunky texture.
Tomato paste (3 tablespoons): Intensifies the tomato richness with concentrated flavor.
Italian seasoning (2 teaspoons, dried): A fragrant mix that perfectly spices the sauce with classic herbs.
Beef stock (3 cups): Enriches the sauce with deep, meaty notes and moisture.
Bay leaves (2): Impart subtle herbal undertones while simmering.
Salt and black pepper (1 teaspoon each): Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors into harmony.
Butter (4 tablespoons): The base for the creamy béchamel sauce, adding lusciousness.
All-purpose flour (4 tablespoons): Thickens the béchamel to a perfect velvety consistency.
Whole milk (3 cups): Provides richness and creaminess to the sauce’s texture.
Ground nutmeg (1/8 teaspoon): Offers a whisper of warm spice that subtly lifts the béchamel.
Parmesan cheese (¼ cup grated plus ½ cup for topping): Adds savory, salty notes and a golden crust on the finished lasagna.
Lasagna sheets (9 ounces, oven-ready): Convenient and tender layers hold everything together flawlessly.
Fresh basil or parsley (optional garnish): A burst of color and fresh herbaceous brightness on the final plate.

How to Make Lasagna al Forno Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

Start by heating olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic, finely chopped carrot, celery, and onion until they soften and their aromas fill the kitchen. Add the lean ground beef, stirring as it browns evenly, breaking it apart so it’s nice and crumbly. Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly, boosting the depth of flavor. Stir in the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, beef stock, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring it all to a gentle simmer, letting it cook uncovered for at least 45 minutes until thickened and wonderfully flavorful.

Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce

While the meat sauce simmers, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux and cook it gently for a couple of minutes without browning. Gradually add whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps and create a creamy, smooth béchamel. Sprinkle in the ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper, stirring to incorporate their subtle warmth. Finally, blend in the grated parmesan cheese which enriches the sauce and adds a lovely umami depth.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna al Forno Recipe

In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Then place a layer of oven-ready lasagna sheets. Over the pasta, add a generous layer of meat sauce followed by a layer of béchamel sauce. Repeat the layering process until all sauces and pasta are used, finishing with a final layer of béchamel. Sprinkle the top evenly with fresh grated parmesan cheese to create a golden, bubbling crust.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the lasagna with foil to keep moisture in and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and bubbling. Let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting, so each slice holds its layers perfectly.

How to Serve Lasagna al Forno Recipe

A white baking dish holds nine square pieces of lasagna with visible layers. The bottom layer is soft pasta sheets, topped with a rich dark red meat sauce mixed with browned beef and tomato, then a creamy white melted cheese layer with some fresh green basil leaves scattered on top. The top cheese layer is bubbly and slightly browned with extra shredded cheese sprinkled over. A black spatula lifts one piece showing the same layers clearly. The dish is on a white marbled surface with a round white plate holding three forks and small bowls filled with grated cheese and red sauce nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly chopped basil or parsley sprinkled over each serving will add a vibrant pop of color and a fresh herbal note that perfectly balances the richness of the lasagna. A light dusting of extra parmesan right at the table is also a nice touch for cheese lovers.

Side Dishes

To complement the hearty Lasagna al Forno Recipe, consider a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. A warm slice of crusty Italian bread is fantastic for mopping up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a lovely dinner party, serve individual portions in small cast iron skillets or ramekins. Layering the lasagna slightly thinner for these personal dishes ensures everyone gets a perfectly cooked share of all the delicious textures and flavors. Pair with a light Italian red wine to complete the experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Lasagna al Forno Recipe leftovers keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out. Leftovers often taste even better the next day, once the flavors have fully melded.

Freezing

You can freeze the lasagna either before or after baking. Wrap the assembled but uncooked dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking or reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to keep the moisture intact. For quicker reheating, microwave slices on medium power, covering loosely to avoid splattering, but expect the texture to be a bit different than fresh-baked.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for the meat sauce?

Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional and provides great flavor, you can use ground pork, veal, turkey, or a mix depending on your preference for richness or leanness.

Do I have to make the béchamel sauce from scratch?

Making béchamel from scratch adds that authentic creamy texture which really elevates the Lasagna al Forno Recipe. However, you can substitute with a good quality prepared white sauce if you’re short on time, though homemade is recommended.

Can I prepare the sauces in advance?

Yes! Both the meat sauce and béchamel can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. This actually allows the flavors to develop even more deeply, making the final assembly easier and the end result tastier.

What type of wine pairs best with Lasagna al Forno Recipe?

Look for medium-bodied Italian reds like Chianti or Sangiovese. Their acidity and fruity notes cut through the richness of the cheese and meat beautifully.

Is it necessary to let the lasagna rest before serving?

Resting allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut clean slices that hold together. It also gives the flavors a chance to meld, resulting in a more harmonious dish.

Final Thoughts

Trying the Lasagna al Forno Recipe really is like inviting a little piece of Italy into your home. The combination of rich meat sauce, silky béchamel, and perfectly baked pasta layers creates a comforting meal that you’ll want to make again and again. Gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and embrace the joy of homemade Italian cooking – this recipe promises a rewarding and delicious experience every single time.

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Lasagna al Forno Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need