Classic Lasagna Bolognese

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Classic Lasagna Bolognese.

1. Step 1

   Begin by warming olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a spacious Dutch oven over medium heat.

2. Step 2

   Introduce the diced pancetta and sauté until it achieves a delightful golden brown, which should take around eight minutes.

3. Step 3

   Next, add the chopped celery, carrots, and onion to the pot.

4. Step 4

   Stir occasionally, allowing the vegetables to soften beautifully for about fifteen minutes.

5. Step 5

   Incorporate the coarsely ground chuck and pork shoulder, seasoning generously with salt and pepper.

6. Step 6

   Cook until the meat is uniformly browned, approximately twenty minutes.

7. Step 7

   Pour in the dry white wine, letting it simmer until the alcohol evaporates, which should take about five minutes.

8. Step 8

   Now, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and if desired, a touch of sugar.

9. Step 9

   Bring this rich mixture to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat, cover, and let the Bolognese sauce bubble away for three and a half hours, stirring occasionally and skimming off any excess fat.

10. Step 10

    If the sauce appears too dry, gradually add beef broth, a quarter cup at a time.

11. Step 11

    Once the simmering is complete, blend in the heavy cream and half a cup of milk.

12. Step 12

    Cover and let it cook on very low heat for an additional thirty minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a harmonious blend.

13. Step 13

    Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan, melt five tablespoons of butter over medium heat.

14. Step 14

    Stir in flour to create a smooth paste, cooking until it turns a lovely golden sandy hue, about seven minutes.

15. Step 15

    Gradually whisk in four cups of milk, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.

16. Step 16

    Reduce the heat to medium-low and add a bay leaf.

17. Step 17

    Continue simmering, stirring occasionally, until the béchamel sauce thickens and becomes velvety smooth, which should take around ten minutes.

18. Step 18

    Season with salt and a hint of nutmeg, then remove the bay leaf.

19. Step 19

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.

20. Step 20

    Spread a quarter cup of béchamel sauce across the bottom of the dish.

21. Step 21

    Lay a lasagna sheet on top, pricking it in several spots with a paring knife.

22. Step 22

    Layer with half a cup of béchamel sauce, half a cup of Bolognese sauce, and a sprinkle of a quarter cup of Parmesan cheese.

23. Step 23

    Repeat this delightful layering process seven times with the remaining ingredients.

24. Step 24

    Once assembled, cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and place it on a rimmed baking sheet.

25. Step 25

    Bake in the preheated oven until it bubbles enticingly, about twenty-five minutes.

26. Step 26

    Remove the foil and continue baking until the cheese turns a beautiful golden brown, which should take an additional twenty minutes.

27. Step 27

    Allow the lasagna to cool for about fifteen minutes before serving, letting the flavors settle and the anticipation build.

28. Step 28

    Enjoy this comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any table.