How to make authentic Italian lasagna with meat and bechamel sauce 🍅🧀

📜 Dish Overview
Lasagna is characterized by its diverse layers and harmonious flavors, making it ideal as a main course for parties or family dinners. This recipe is based on a well-seasoned meat sauce, a smooth béchamel sauce, and melted cheese, which gives it an irresistible taste.

👩‍🍳 Ingredients
🍝 Lasagna Layers:
12 Lasagna Sheets (Prepared or Boiled, Depending on the Type)
Grated Mozzarella Cheese (About 1 1/2 Cups)
🥩 Meat Sauce:
½ kg Ground Beef
1 Onion, Chopped
2 Cloves Garlic, Crushed
1 Grated Carrot (Optional)
1 Teaspoon Sugar
2 Cups Tomato Sauce
2 Tablespoons Tomato Paste
Seasonings: Salt, Black Pepper, Oregano, Basil, Paprika
🥄 Béchamel Sauce:
4 Tablespoons Butter
4 Tablespoons Flour
4 Cups Milk
Nutmeg, Salt, White Pepper
½ Cup Parmesan Cheese or Cream (Optional)

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🥄 Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C.
Cover the tray with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the top is golden brown.

Prepare the Meat Sauce:
Heat the oil in a pan, add the onion, and sauté until wilted.
Add the garlic and grated carrot, then the meat and sauté until cooked through.
Add the tomato paste, sauce, sugar, and spices, and cook until the sauce thickens.

Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
Melt the butter, then add the flour and stir until it changes color slightly.
Gradually add the milk, stirring continuously.
Add the nutmeg, salt, and white pepper, and let the mixture boil and thicken.
(Optional) Add cheese or cream for added flavor.

Assemble:
In a baking dish, place a layer of Béchamel sauce.
Add the lasagna sheets, then a layer of meat sauce, then a layer of Béchamel.
Repeat the layers until finished, finishing with a layer of Béchamel.
Lastly Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top.

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❓Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken instead of meat?
Yes, you can use ground chicken, following the same steps.

Do I need to boil the lasagna sheets?
Some varieties do not require boiling (the package says “no boil”). Check the instructions.

Can I freeze lasagna?
Yes, it can be frozen before or after baking, provided it is tightly wrapped.

📝 Conclusion
Lasagna is a complete dish that combines authentic Italian flavor and ease of preparation. Try this recipe in your kitchen and share it with your family. It’s guaranteed to be a success and delicious for every occasion! 🇮🇹💛