Lasagna from Nonna

Maria, my Italian wife, loves cooking. This authentic Italian lasagna recipe is one of her recipes that I love eating.

Scroll down to below the recipe for our lasagna FAQ section

Authentic Lasagna dish

I've just spent hours at the table with Maria, her mamma, and the rest of the family, enjoying this dish and a little more wine than I should have. They say the way to a person's heart is through their stomach, and this dish proves that to be true.

Why not make it for you and your loved ones this Sunday?

It's the perfect way to gather around the table and create lasting memories. The aroma of the lasagna in the oven will fill your home with warmth and anticipation. And as you savor each tender bite, you'll feel a connection to the rich culinary traditions of Italy.

So grab a bottle of your favorite white wine, gather the ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a meal that will transport you to a world of flavors. Whether you're a seasoned cook or only right at the beginning of your culinary journey, this recipe will definitely impress your guests and have them longing for their next invitation to lunch or dinner. 

Buon Appetito!

Which is the best authentic Italian cookbook?

Having lived in Italy for over ten years, and with Maria being Italian and a great cook, many of my family and friends in the USA, Australia, and the UK ask me for advice as to which Italian cookbooks give you a real "taste" of Italy. Finally I have the answer for you—just click here.

Ingredients

The Lasagna

  • 8 oz.(225 to 230 grams) lasagna sheets (fresh egg pasta is best if you can get it)
  • 1 can (16 oz.) whole peeled tomatoes, chopped up
  • 1 stick of celery, finely chopped
  • 1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 lb. lean ground beef
  • Black pepper and a pinch of salt
  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh basil to finish
  • The Bechamel Sauce

    • 4 cups milk
    • ½ cup butter
    • ⅔ cup flour
    • A pinch of salt, pepper, and nutmeg

    Cooking Instructions

    Bechamel Sauce

    1. Warm the milk gently—don’t let it boil. 
    2. In a separate pan, melt the butter, then whisk in the flour until smooth. 
    3. Slowly pour in the warm milk, whisking continuously until it turns smooth and creamy.
    4. Add salt, pepper, and just a whisper of nutmeg.
    5. Set aside.

    Making your Lasagna

    1. In a large pan, cook the chopped onion in olive oil for a few minutes.
    2. Add the celery, then the ground beef with a little salt and pepper. 
    3. Once the beef is browned, pour in the wine and let it reduce. 
    4. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and let the whole thing simmer on low for at least 35–40 minutes. The longer you leave it, the richer the flavor.

    Assembly time:

    1. Grease a 9x12" baking dish. 
    2. Start with a thin layer of béchamel, then meat sauce, then pasta, then Parmesan.
    3. Repeat, layering it up like that until you’ve used everything.
    4. End with a final layer of béchamel and a good sprinkle of Parmesan.

    Bake at 400°F (about 200°C) for 30 minutes. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving, then garnish with fresh basil.


    Questions about Lasagna

    Question: Is the recipe the traditional lasagne recipe?

    Answer: Lasagna is a beloved Italian dish with a rich history that dates back centuries. It is believed to have originated in the region of Emilia-Romagna in Northern Italy, where it was traditionally made with layers of fresh egg pasta sheets, meat sauce, and béchamel sauce. 

    Our recipe captures the essence of authentic lasagna by using traditional ingredients and techniques. The use of fresh egg pasta sheets, rather than dried ones adds a delicate texture and authentic flavor to the dish. The combination of ground beef, tomatoes, onions, and celery in the meat sauce creates a hearty and savory filling.

    Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, known as the "king of Italian cheeses," brings a rich and nutty flavor to the dish, while the dry white wine adds depth and complexity to the sauce. The use of olive oil as a cooking fat not only enhances the flavors but also reflects the Mediterranean influence in Italian cuisine.

    By following this recipe, you are embracing the authentic preparation methods and ingredients that have been passed down through generations. Each layer of pasta, sauce, and cheese comes together to create a harmonious and comforting dish that has stood the test of time.

    Remember, though, that while authenticity is important to many, lasagna can also be a versatile dish that allows for personal preferences and adaptations. So feel free to experiment and make it your own while still staying true to the essence of this beloved Italian classic.

    Question: How important is the béchamel sauce in lasagne?

    Answer: Béchamel sauce is a crucial element in authentic lasagne. It provides a smooth and velvety texture between the layers of pasta and meat sauce, adding richness and depth to the dish.

    Question: Is it lasagna or lasagne? What is the difference?

    Answer: The difference between "lasagna" and "lasagne" lies in their usage and spelling. Both terms refer to the same dish, but they are used in different contexts.

    "Lasagna" is the singular form of the word and is commonly used in American English. It refers to a single piece or serving of the dish. For example, if you order one portion of lasagna at a restaurant, you would use the term "lasagna."

    "On the other hand, "lasagne" is the plural form of the word and is commonly used in British English and in Italian. It refers to multiple layers or sheets of pasta used in the dish. When you are talking about the dish as a whole or when referring to multiple servings or pieces, you would use the term "lasagne."

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