The Ultimate Meat Lasagna Recipe

Steps

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1. 1
   In a large pot, sauté the onions with olive oil over medium-high heat until softened and starting to turn golden. Add the ground beef, garlic, salt, and spices. Mix well and cook for approximately 3 to 4 minutes until fully cooked.
   ▶ ≈1:10
2. 2
   Add the marinara sauce and stir well. Cover the pot and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Then add the fresh oregano and basil leaves, stir until well combined, and set aside.
   ▶ ≈3:28
3. 3
   Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Add salt and the lasagna noodles. Cook over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain and rinse under cold water, then arrange the noodles flat on a rectangular tray.
   ▶ ≈6:17
4. 4
   Prepare the béchamel sauce: In a medium pot, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the flour. Whisk until well combined and cook for about 1 minute. Slowly pour in the hot milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a boil and continue whisking for approximately 5 minutes until thickened. Turn off the heat and add salt, nutmeg, and black pepper. Mix well and set aside.
   ▶ ≈7:50
5. 5
   Assemble the lasagna: Spread 1 cup of meat sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9 × 13 inch (33 × 23 cm) baking dish. Top with 3 lasagna noodles, then spread 1 1/3 cups of meat sauce. Layer with 1 cup of béchamel sauce. Sprinkle with 1/3 of the shredded mozzarella (about 150 g), then 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan. Repeat until you have 3 layers.
   ▶ ≈10:51
6. 6
   Insert 6 toothpicks over the surface to keep the foil from sticking to the cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and broil until the cheese turns a light golden color. Remove from the oven and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
   ▶ ≈14:01