A warm and comforting Italian-inspired baked pasta dish, this Festive Lasagna Bolognese brings together layers of tender noodles, rich tomato meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese — perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it delivers classic lasagna flavor with less effort thanks to no-boil noodles and a simple yet hearty sauce. The combination of carrots, celery, and onion adds depth and sweetness, while the creamy béchamel and gooey cheese make every bite indulgent and satisfying. It’s elegant enough for guests yet simple enough for a cozy weeknight meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Non-stick cooking spray
• 1 (13.2-oz) box no-boil lasagna noodles
• 2 large carrots, roughly chopped
• 1 stalk celery, roughly chopped
• 1 large yellow onion, roughly chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or substitute ground turkey or lamb)
• 1 (28-oz) can crushed tomatoes (about 794 g)
• 1 (15-oz) can tomato sauce (about 425 g)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (200 g)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (100 g)
• 2 cups béchamel sauce

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the carrots, celery, and onion until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Stir in the ground beef, season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil, and cook until browned.
6. Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes to thicken.
7. Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the prepared dish.
8. Place a layer of no-boil lasagna noodles on top.
9. Add a layer of sauce, then spread a portion of béchamel, and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
10. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and cheese on top.
11. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
12. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8 servings.
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Rest time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Replace the meat with a mix of mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach.
• Lighter version: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Extra creamy: Mix ricotta cheese into the béchamel for added richness.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Loaded veggie: Include layers of roasted bell peppers or eggplant for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap portions tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or microwave in short intervals until hot.

FAQs

Can I use regular lasagna noodles instead of no-boil noodles?

Yes. Cook them according to package directions before assembling the lasagna.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble it a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

What can I use instead of béchamel sauce?

You can use a mix of ricotta and cream for a quick substitute.

How do I prevent my lasagna from becoming watery?

Simmer the sauce until thick and allow the baked lasagna to rest before slicing.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free lasagna noodles and gluten-free flour for the béchamel.

How can I make it vegetarian?

Skip the meat and use lentils or sautéed vegetables as the filling.

What cheeses can I use instead of mozzarella and Parmesan?

Try provolone, fontina, or Asiago for different flavor profiles.

Can I freeze the lasagna before baking?

Yes. Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze unbaked. Thaw overnight before baking.

How can I make the sauce richer in flavor?

Add a splash of milk, a pinch of sugar, or a spoon of tomato paste while simmering.

How long should I let the lasagna rest before serving?

Let it rest for about 10 minutes so the layers set and it slices cleanly.

Conclusion

This Festive Lasagna Bolognese is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory layers that create a comforting meal for any celebration. Whether served at a dinner party or a cozy weekend meal, it’s guaranteed to be a delicious centerpiece that everyone will love.

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