Authentic homemade oven-baked beef lasagne recipe

Homemade beef lasagne is one of those comforting dishes that warms the heart and brings the whole family together around the table. Between the slow-cooked Bolognese sauce , the creamy béchamel, and the golden melted cheese, every bite is a burst of flavour.

In this article, we offer you a detailed oven-baked lasagne recipe , easy to follow yet worthy of the finest Italian trattorias. It has been designed so you achieve a generous, indulgent, and perfectly gratinated dish that will truly impress your guests.

And to ensure your lasagne turns out perfectly, nothing beats an enamelled cast iron roasting dish : cast iron distributes heat evenly, the layers cook uniformly, and serving at the table is stylish thanks to its colourful enamel.

Ingredients (serves 6 to 8)

For the Bolognese sauce

• 600g minced beef

• 150g pancetta or smoked bacon lardons

• 1 yellow onion

• 2 garlic cloves

• 2 carrots

• 2 celery sticks

• 800g tinned chopped tomatoes

• 100ml full-bodied red wine (optional but recommended)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp

  teaspoon of dried basil

• Salt, pepper

For the béchamel sauce

• 70g butter

• 70g plain flour

• 750ml whole milk

• 1 pinch of grated nutmeg

• Salt, pepper

For assembling

• 12 to 14 lasagne sheets (preferably fresh, otherwise pre-cooked dried)

• 150g grated Parmesan cheese

• 200g grated mozzarella or Emmental cheese

• A drizzle of olive oil

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Preparation steps

1.Prepare the Bolognese sauce

1. Finely chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.

2. In a cast iron casserole dish, heat the olive oil and fry the pancetta. Then add the vegetables and gently soften.

3. Add the minced beef and brown for a few minutes.

4. Deglaze with red wine, then add the chopped tomatoes, oregano, and basil.

5. Simmer on a low heat for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Make a smooth béchamel sauce

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan.

2. Add the flour and mix vigorously (you will get a roux).

3. Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps.

4. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

5. Allow to thicken until you have a smooth, velvety sauce.

3. Assemble the lasagne

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C.

2. In the enameled cast iron roasting dish, start with a thin layer of béchamel.

3. Add the first layer of pasta sheets.

4. Cover with Bolognese sauce, then a little béchamel, and sprinkle with Parmesan.

5. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with béchamel and grated cheese.

6. Drizzle a little olive oil on top for a perfect golden crust.

4. Baking

• Bake for 35 to 40 minutes at 190°C.

• For an even more golden gratin, place under the grill for 3 minutes at the end of cooking.

• Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing: your portions will hold together better.

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Tips for perfect lasagne

• Use fresh minced beef for a richer texture.

• Prepare the bolognese sauce the day before: the flavours will be intensified.

• Alternate mozzarella and parmesan for a balance of melt and gratin.

• The resting time after baking is essential for a clean and delicious result.

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Why cook your lasagne in an enamelled cast iron dish?

The success of your lasagne also depends on the dish you choose.A cast iron roasting dish with enamel coating:

• distributes heat evenly for perfect cooking of every layer,

• retains heat for longer once out of the oven,

• features a colourful and stylish enamel finish, allowing you to serve straight to the table without decanting.

👉 Discover Mamie Cocottes enamelled cast iron roasting dishes

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FAQ – Your frequently asked questions about homemade lasagne

Can I prepare lasagne in advance?
Yes! You can assemble it a few hours ahead and keep it in the fridge. Just allow a little extra cooking time.

Can I freeze lasagne?
Absolutely. Whether cooked or uncooked, it freezes very well.For better results, freeze after cooking.

Do you need to pre-cook lasagne sheets?
If they are fresh or pre-cooked, no. If they are classic dried sheets, a quick dip in boiling water will prevent them from staying firm.

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Conclusion

Homemade beef lasagne is a generous, sociable and timeless dish. By following this step-by-step recipe, you will achieve a meltingly tender and delicious result that will delight the whole family.

And to elevate this culinary experience, cooking in a Mamie Cocottes enamelled cast iron roasting dish makes all the difference: even heat distribution, elegant presentation and unmatched durability.

👉 Discover Mamie Cocottes enamelled cast iron roasting dishes