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Festive Lasagna Bolognese

Festive Lasagna Bolognese: A Hearty Holiday Showstopper

This Festive Lasagna Bolognese is a hearty holiday dish packed with rich flavors and creamy layers, perfect for family gatherings.
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Resting Time 12 hours
Total Time 16 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Bolognese Sauce
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound ground pork can be omitted
  • 2 cans San Marzano tomatoes
  • 1 cup white wine vegetable broth can substitute
  • 1 cup heavy cream half-and-half can be a lighter option
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese Pecorino Romano works well as a substitute
For the Ricotta Mixture
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese cottage cheese can be a lower-fat alternative
  • ½ cup basil pesto consider spinach as an alternative
For the Lasagna Assembly
  • 12 noodles lasagna noodles no-boil noodles can simplify preparation

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • large baking dish
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and ground pork for about 10 minutes until fully cooked. Add the San Marzano tomatoes, white wine, and your favorite seasonings. Stir to combine, then let the sauce simmer on low heat for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and deepens in color.
  2. While the bolognese sauce simmers, mix the ricotta cheese, basil pesto, beaten egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Blend together until smooth and creamy, ensuring the ingredients are well incorporated. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a large baking dish by spooning a little bolognese sauce onto the bottom. Start layering with bolognese sauce, followed by lasagna noodles, dollops of pesto ricotta, and repeat until all ingredients are used. Finish with a generous layer of bolognese on top.
  4. Once assembled, cover the lasagna dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight.
  5. After resting, uncover the lasagna and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour, covered with foil to retain moisture, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  6. Once done, remove from the oven and let the lasagna rest for 15 to 20 minutes before serving warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 8mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, refrigerate overnight to enhance flavor and achieve clean, appealing slices when serving.

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