The aroma of bubbling cheese, rich beef, and creamy white sauce wafts through the air, wrapping everyone in a cozy embrace. Each layer of this Cheesy Beef Lasagna with White Sauce tells a delicious story, bringing together flavors that dance on your palate and warm your heart.
a family gathering where laughter fills the room and plates are overflowing. This lasagna becomes the star of the show, evoking memories that linger long after the last forkful is gone. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, this dish promises to elevate any occasion with its comforting flavors and delightful textures.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cheesy beef lasagna is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
- The creamy white sauce adds a luxurious touch that will impress your guests.
- Its vibrant layers make it not only delicious but also visually appealing on any dining table.
- Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies for added versatility.
Ingredients for Cheesy Beef Lasagna with White Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a flavorful filling without excess grease; aim for about 1 pound.
- Lasagna Noodles: Opt for no-boil noodles to save time; they cook perfectly in the oven.
- Ricotta Cheese: A crucial layer that adds creaminess; choose whole milk ricotta for the best texture.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella brings gooey goodness; use at least 2 cups for ample cheesiness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds depth of flavor; sprinkle generously between layers.
For the White Sauce:
- Butter: About 4 tablespoons for a rich base; don’t skimp on quality here.
- All-Purpose Flour: You’ll need half a cup to thicken your sauce beautifully.
- Milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess; use about 3 cups for that dreamy consistency.
- Garlic Powder: Just a teaspoon adds fantastic flavor without overwhelming the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cheesy Beef Lasagna with White Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all ingredients and get ready to assemble this masterpiece.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary, then season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Make the White Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in flour and cook for about one minute until bubbly. Gradually whisk in milk and continue cooking until thickened. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom. Layer noodles, followed by half of the ground beef mixture, ricotta cheese dollops, mozzarella cheese, and more sauce. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
Step 5: Top It Off
Finish with remaining mozzarella and grated parmesan on top. Cover with foil and bake for about half an hour.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Remove foil and bake an additional ten minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Transfer to plates and enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table!
You Must Know
- This cheesy beef lasagna with white sauce is more than just delicious; it’s a crowd-pleaser that dazzles at any gathering.
- You can personalize this dish to suit your taste and impress dinner guests with its creamy layers of goodness.
- Perfect for family nights or casual get-togethers.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef in a skillet while boiling the pasta. Once cooked, whip up the white sauce, and layer everything together for optimal flavors and textures.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms. Experiment with spices like Italian seasoning or even a sprinkle of nutmeg for an unexpected twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until bubbly, or microwave individual portions for quick meals.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect lasagna, ensure your noodles are al dente before layering them.
- Allow the dish to rest after baking for better slicing.
- For extra creaminess, add ricotta cheese to your white sauce.
Sometimes, I still remember the first time I made this cheesy beef lasagna. My friends devoured it so quickly that I barely had time to take a picture!
FAQs:
What type of cheese is best for Cheesy Beef Lasagna with White Sauce?
For a rich and creamy flavor, consider using a combination of mozzarella and ricotta cheese. Mozzarella provides that gooey stretchiness, while ricotta adds a smooth texture. You can also sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top for an additional layer of flavor and a golden finish. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or Monterey Jack to suit your taste preferences.
How do I make the white sauce for Cheesy Beef Lasagna?
To create a delicious white sauce, start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in all-purpose flour until it forms a paste, then gradually add milk while stirring continuously. Cook until the sauce thickens, and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg for added flavor. This creamy sauce will complement the beef layers perfectly and bring your lasagna to life.
Can I make Cheesy Beef Lasagna with White Sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap after assembly, and freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then cook as directed.
What can I serve with Cheesy Beef Lasagna?
Cheesy Beef Lasagna pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread. A simple arugula salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice offers a nice contrast to the richness of the lasagna. For bread lovers, warm garlic breadsticks are a perfect side dish. These accompaniments enhance your meal without overshadowing the main dish’s flavors.
Conclusion for Cheesy Beef Lasagna with White Sauce:
In summary, Cheesy Beef Lasagna with White Sauce is an indulgent dish that combines savory beef and rich cheeses under a creamy layer of white sauce. Using quality ingredients enhances flavor and texture, making this recipe perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Preparing it ahead of time allows convenience without sacrificing taste. Enjoy this delightful lasagna alongside salads or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Cheesy Beef Lasagna with White Sauce
Cheesy Beef Lasagna with White Sauce is a comforting dish that brings together layers of rich, seasoned ground beef, creamy white sauce, and gooey cheeses. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this lasagna is easy to prepare and will impress your guests. Each slice offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more.
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 9 no-boil lasagna noodles
- 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and gather all ingredients.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and season with salt and pepper.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a paste, then gradually whisk in milk until thickened. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of white sauce. Layer with noodles, half of the beef mixture, ricotta dollops, mozzarella cheese, and more sauce. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 90mg