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If you’ve ever dreamed of savoring a plate of lasagna straight out of a cozy Italian trattoria, you’re in the right place. This authentic Mediterranean Italian lasagna recipe brings the rich, hearty flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. Layers of perfectly seasoned meat sauce, creamy ricotta, silky bechamel, and melted mozzarella make this a dish worth every second of prep time.
It might seem a bit tricky to make, but trust me — every step is worth it, and the process itself is part of the joy. But about the real reward? That first delicious bite. This lasagna is perfect for gathering around with family or friends, so get ready to soak in all the love and appreciation that will come your way after that first mouthful because they’ll fall in love with you!
You don’t have to be an Italian to make it! Just follow this simple guide, and you’ll have a lasagna so good that you’ll want to make it every week.
Mediterranean Italian Lasagna Ingredients
For the best traditional Italian lasagna recipe, we need to create 4 repeating layers: a layer of creamy béchamel sauce, a layer of lasagna sheets, a layer of rich meat sauce, and a single layer of ricotta cheese right in the middle for that perfect creamy touch.
For the Meat Sauce:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 300g (or more) ground beef
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp thyme
- 2 cups tomato paste
For the Bechamel Sauce:
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 1.5 liters milk (use more if you want a thinner sauce)
- A pinch of salt, black pepper
For the Cheese:
- 400g ricotta cheese (the secret to a creamy, slightly sweet layer)
- 300g mozzarella cheese, shredded
For the Lasagna sheets :
- You’ll need 15 sheets of no-boil lasagna (but double-check the package to see if boiling is required).
I use 5 sheets per layer for a pan size of 23 cm x 33 cm.
How to make Authentic Italian lasagne Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Rich Meat Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Sauté the onions until soft and slightly golden.
- Add the green bell pepper and minced garlic, stirring for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Season with salt, black pepper, chili flakes, basil, and thyme. Stir well to infuse the flavors.
- Pour in the tomato paste, mix well, and let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Bechamel Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Layer the Lasagna Like an Italian Chef
Now for the fun part—assembling the layers!
- First layer: Spread a thin layer of bechamel sauce at the bottom of your baking dish.
- Second layer: Place a layer of lasagna sheets on top.
- Third layer: Spoon over a generous amount of the rich meat sauce.
- Fourth layer: Add another layer of lasagna sheets.
- Fifth layer: Spread a layer of bechamel sauce.
- Sixth layer: Crumble a generous layer of ricotta cheese—this adds a creamy, slightly sweet flavor that takes the lasagna to another level!
- Seventh layer: Add another layer of lasagna sheets.
- Eighth layer: More meat sauce.
- Ninth layer: A final layer of bechamel sauce.
- Tenth layer: Sprinkle the entire top with mozzarella cheese for that perfectly golden, gooey crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the cheese from burning and to lock in all that saucy goodness, ensuring every bite stays moist and delicious.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 45-60 minutes.
- To check for doneness, insert a knife—if the pasta feels soft, it’s ready!
- Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to turn golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Let it Rest (Patience!)
Resist the urge to dig in right away! Let the lasagna sit for at least 15 minutes before cutting. This helps the layers set so you get those perfect, picture-worthy slices.
And Buon Appetito! 🇮🇹
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Italian Lasagna
- Rich & Authentic: Inspired by traditional Italian recipes, this dish is packed with classic Mediterranean flavors.
- Perfectly Layered: The combination of ricotta, bechamel, and meat sauce creates an unbeatable balance of creamy, savory, and cheesy goodness.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, holiday meal, or meal prep for the week, lasagna never disappoints!
Common Questions About Mediterranean Italian Lasagna
What does lasagna mean in Italian?
The word ‘lasagna’ has intriguing origins. In ancient Rome, it meant ‘container’ in Latin. Some believe it stems from the Greek ‘laganon,’ referring to flat pasta sheets. Today, ‘lagana’ in Greek still describes a thin, unleavened bread baked for Clean Monday.
What is Italian lasagna made of?
Traditional Italian lasagna consists of thin pasta sheets, slow-cooked meat sauce, béchamel sauce, ricotta cheese, and plenty of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s baked until bubbly and golden, creating the ultimate comfort food experience.
What type of cheese is traditionally used in Italian lasagna?
Authentic Italian lasagna usually features ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. While the mix can vary by region, mozzarella is always a must!
Why is lasagna popular in Italy?
Lasagna is a classic Italian comfort food that’s been around for centuries. Its popularity comes from its versatility—it can be made with different ingredients like meat, vegetables, or seafood—and its ability to feed a crowd. It’s also deeply rooted in Italian culture and is often served during family gatherings and celebrations.