Giada Lasagna Recipe

When I think of classic Italian comfort food, Giada’s lasagna recipe always comes to mind! It’s so approachable and delish!

Her recipe layers rich flavors. a creamy bechamel sauce and depth added from a blend of cheeses and succulent meat.

A little secret for achieving the perfect texture is letting your lasagna rest for a few minutes after baking, allowing the layers to set beautifully.

Let’s get cookin’!

How to Make Giada Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients

• 10 sheets Lasagna Noodles
• 5 tbsp Butter (unsalted)
• 1/2 cup All-purpose Flour
• 4 cups Whole Milk
• 1/2 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 2 cups Marinara Sauce
• 1 cup Ricotta Cheese
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Heat a large pot of water, adding a pinch of salt.

Cook the lasagna noodles until al dente.

Drain and set aside.

Step 2:

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Whisk in the flour to form a roux.

Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously until it thickens.

This is your bechamel sauce.

Step 3:

Spread a ladle of marinara sauce across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Layer with a few lasagna noodles.

Add a layer of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of mozzarella.

Step 4:

Repeat layering with noodles, bechamel, and marinara sauce.

Top it off with remaining mozzarella and parmesan.

Step 5:

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Remove the foil, then bake another 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Perfect Noodles

Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles only until they are al dente, since they will continue cooking in the oven.

Bechamel Consistency

If the bechamel sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a splash more milk until it’s just right.

Cheese Options

Feel free to switch things up by using a mix of cheeses, like adding some asiago for an extra kick.

What to Serve with Giada Lasagna Recipe

Garlic Bread

Oh, you can’t go wrong with the traditional option of garlic bread!

The crispy golden crust with a buttery garlic spread pairs wonderfully with the rich and cheesy layers of lasagna.

Serve warm from the oven for the best experience.

Caesar Salad

You’ll love the way a Caesar salad adds a fresh and crisp contrast to the richness of lasagna.

Romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons come together to create this classic side.

It’s a refreshing companion that enhances every bite of the lasagna.

Pan-Fried Polenta

Why not try something a little different with your lasagna night?

Pan-fried polenta adds an intriguing texture and flavor.

Start with store-bought polenta, bread it with an egg wash, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan, then pan-fry until golden brown.

Serve alongside your lasagna for a unique twist!

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

For a nutritious and slightly unexpected side, consider roasted Brussels sprouts!

Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until they’re tender and caramelized.

Their earthy flavor complements the savory lasagna beautifully and adds a bit of crunch too.

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus brings a lil’ smokiness to your lasagna meal.

Simply grill the spears with olive oil, salt, and lemon juice for a fresh and slightly charred taste.

It’s a wonderful way to surprise your taste buds on lasagna night!

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with this classic recipe to suit your preferences!

Meat Options

If you’re not a fan of beef, consider using ground turkey or chicken as an alternative protein source.

For a vegetarian twist, skip the meat altogether and add extra layers of your favorite vegetables.

Cheese Varieties

Not a fan of ricotta? Use cottage cheese for a similar texture with a slightly different flavor profile.

Add some mozzarella or parmesan on top for an extra cheesy experience.

Noodle Choices

You can substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free or whole-grain versions if dietary needs require.

For an unconventional spin, try using zucchini slices instead of pasta.

How to Store Leftover Giada Lasagna Recipe

After preparing a delicious lasagna, you might have some leftovers to save for later!

Refrigeration

You should always store leftover lasagna in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

It’s crucial to refrigerate the lasagna within two hours to keep it safe for up to four days.

Freezing Leftovers

Freezing is a great option if you want to keep the deliciousness going even longer.

Wrap the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container.

This method preserves the dish for up to three months in the freezer.

Portion Control

Cutting the lasagna into individual portions can make reheating much more convenient!

It’s best to wrap each piece separately, so you can grab and reheat only what you need.

This technique minimizes waste and maintains the quality of the lasagna.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Starting with Sauce

When making lasagna, starting with sauce at the bottom of your dish helps prevent sticking.

This foundational technique makes layers easy to work with, avoiding dry noodles.

Forgetting to Season

Ensure every layer of your lasagna is seasoned well, including meat, cheese, and sauce.

Seasoning each element ensures a flavorful and cohesive dish that won’t taste bland.

Misjudging Baking Time

Baking time can make or break a lasagna.

Overcooking can dry out your dish, while undercooking leaves the noodles chewy.

Check periodically for that golden bubbly top!