Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz / 400g)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 12-15 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Sauté chopped onion until translucent.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
  4. Add ground meat; brown until fully cooked.
  5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.
  6. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  7. Whisk in flour; cook for 2 minutes until golden.
  8. Gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
  9. Cook until thickened; season with nutmeg and salt.
  10. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  11. Spread a layer of meat sauce at the bottom of the baking dish.
  12. Layer noodles, followed by béchamel, meat sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Repeat layers.
  13. Finish with a final layer of béchamel and cheeses on top.
  14. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  15. Remove foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  16. Let rest for 20 minutes before slicing and serving.