Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meat Sauce

• Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until soft (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
• Add ground beef and pork. Break it up with your spoon. Cook until browned and no pink remains. Drain the fat if needed.
• Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. It should be thick and rich.

Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce

• In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes.
• Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer until the sauce thickens (around 5–7 minutes).
• Season with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and white pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

• If using regular noodles, cook them in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and lay flat on a clean towel so they don’t stick. If using oven-ready noodles, no need to pre-cook.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large baking dish:
• Spread a spoonful of meat sauce on the bottom.
• Add a layer of noodles.
• Spread some béchamel sauce.
• Add meat sauce.
• Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Repeat until you run out of everything. End with sauce and cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake It

• Cover the dish with foil (spray it so it doesn’t stick to the cheese). Bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for another 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
• Let it rest for at least 15 minutes before cutting. Yes, it’s hard to wait. But totally worth it.