Lasagna Parmesan
A hearty layered Italian dish with rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and Parmesan cheese, perfect for family dinners and gatherings with comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and diced onion in a skillet.
- Stir in tomato sauce, salt, and pepper; simmer to make the meat sauce.
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; drain.
- Prepare béchamel sauce: melt margarine in a saucepan, stir in flour and nutmeg, gradually add milk, and cook until thickened.
- Layer cooked noodles, meat sauce, béchamel, and Parmesan cheese in a baking dish.
- Repeat layers as desired, ending with a top layer of béchamel and Parmesan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or Italian herbs like oregano and basil to the meat sauce. If you're short on time, you can substitute the egg noodles with no-boil lasagna sheets. Using pre-shredded Parmesan can save time but may not melt as smoothly as fresh. For a lighter version, try using ground turkey instead of beef.
Serving Suggestions
This Lasagna Parmesan pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread. For a comforting meal, consider serving it alongside Pia'S Italian Country Beans for added flavor and nutrition. A glass of red wine can complement the dish nicely, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lasagna Parmesan contains roughly 505 calories, with 12g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value) and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1273mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it well with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for the margarine in the béchamel sauce?
If you prefer not to use margarine, you can easily substitute it with unsalted butter or olive oil. Both options will provide a delicious flavor to the béchamel sauce, making it creamy and rich. Just keep in mind that using butter will add a slightly different taste.
Can I freeze the leftover lasagna?
Absolutely! You can freeze leftover lasagna for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil or placing it in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned earlier.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).