Marcella Hazan Lasagna Recipe

This is one lasagna that isn’t overloaded with cheese or heavy ingredients—Marcella Hazan keeps it true to its roots!

The béchamel is what sets it apart, giving it a soft, creamy texture without weighing everything down.

The sauce is the heart of it all, and slow cooking it brings out a richness you won’t get by rushing.

Fresh nutmeg in the béchamel makes a difference—you don’t notice it outright, but it brings warmth to the whole dish.

One of the best parts is the way the layers meld together after baking, creating something rich without being overwhelming!

How to Make Marcella Hazan Lasagna

Ingredients

• 9 sheets Lasagna Noodles
• 2 cups Bechamel Sauce
• 3 cups Bolognese Sauce
• 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Olive Oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil with olive oil.

Cook the lasagna noodles per package instructions, then drain and lay flat on a clean towel.

Step 2:

Butter the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish generously to prevent sticking.

Spread a thin layer of bechamel sauce on the bottom.

Step 3:

Add the first layer of noodles on top of the bechamel.

Then, add a layer of bolognese sauce followed by a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.

Step 4:

Repeat the layers: bechamel, noodles, bolognese, and Parmesan until you have three to four layers.

Top with the remaining bechamel and Parmesan.

Step 5:

Place small butter dots on the top for added richness.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing Your Cheese

Opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese, as it melts better and adds more flavor to your lasagna.

Cutting the Lasagna

When serving, allow the lasagna to sit for 15 minutes after baking so it can set and cut cleanly.

Sauce Consistency

Ensure both your bechamel and bolognese sauces are neither too thick nor too thin so they coat the noodles properly.

Using Fresh Ingredients

Fresh lasagna noodles can be used instead of dried ones for a more tender texture, though drying them is still fine.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover portions can be stored and tasted even better the next day as the flavors meld together in the fridge.

What to Serve with Marcella Hazan Lasagna

Fresh Green Salad

You can’t go wrong with a fresh green salad as a side dish for Marcella Hazan Lasagna.

A mix of crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy lasagna.

Drizzle with a light balsamic vinaigrette, and you’ve got a perfect pairing!

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a traditional accompaniment with lasagna, and it’s easy to see why.

The crispy, buttery bread infused with garlic flavor is fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

It’s simple to make at home and warms up beautifully in the oven.

Roasted Vegetables

If you’re looking for something a bit different, try serving roasted vegetables with your lasagna.

A mix of carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini tossed in a bit of olive oil and herbs makes for a colorful and flavorful side.

The roasting brings out the natural sweetness and adds a lovely caramelized touch.

Grilled Asparagus

Grilled asparagus is another unique yet complementary choice.

The slight char from the grill enhances the natural earthiness of the asparagus, adding depth to the meal.

A squeeze of lemon over the top before serving can add a fresh and zesty note.

Caprese Skewers

Caprese skewers are simple and add a burst of freshness.

Layered with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil leaves threaded on skewers, they are a quick and tasty option.

Drizzle them with a bit of balsamic glaze for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Variations and Substitutions

Lean Into Lighter Options

If you’re looking to reduce some calories or change things up a bit, using turkey or chicken instead of beef can make a wonderful difference.

Another way to lighten the lasagna is by incorporating zucchini or eggplant as noodle substitutes.

This gives a lovely texture without sacrificing flavor.

Mixing Up Cheese

Some folks love to use a combination of cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, and even a little gouda.

If you’re not a big fan of ricotta, swapping it with cottage cheese can also work quite nicely!

You can also experiment with different kinds of cheese to find what you enjoy the most.

Sauce Play

Instead of sticking to classic marinara, try using a white béchamel sauce for a creamy touch.

For a change in protein texture, Italian sausage adds a spicy and savory bite.

Adding veggies like spinach or mushrooms can make it more flavorful and colorful!

Mixing your own favorite elements can lead to fun and unique adaptations for you.

How to Store Leftover Marcella Hazan Lasagna

Storing your Marcella Hazan lasagna properly will help it stay fresh and delicious for your next meal!

When you have leftover lasagna, use an airtight container to keep it secure and prevent air from getting inside and drying it out in the fridge.

It can be refrigerated for up to five days, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy it again.

Freezing Lasagna

If you can’t finish it all within a few days, freezing is a great option to preserve your delicious dish.

Wrap the lasagna well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn.

Lasagna can be frozen for up to three months without losing its tantalizing taste.

Reusing Leftover Sauce

Any leftover meat sauce can be stored in the freezer for future meals, which makes it a quick go-to when you need a scrumptious sauce fast.

Store the sauce in smaller portions to make reheating more convenient at a later date.

By having the sauce ready, your next lasagna will be a breeze to prepare!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overloading with Cheese

You might be tempted to add that extra layer of cheese, but resist!

Too much cheese can overpower the delicate flavors of the Bolognese sauce and the béchamel.

Instead, try using just enough to keep the layers intact and flavorful.

Skipping Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients makes all the difference when preparing Marcella Hazan’s lasagna.

Avoid pre-packaged items whenever possible, especially for the Ragù and béchamel.

The effort you put into fresh tomatoes and homemade sauces will shine through in each bite.

Overcooking the Pasta

It’s important not to overcook the pasta before layering it in the lasagna.

The pasta continues to cook in the oven, so boiling it until just before al dente is key.

This way, you avoid ending up with mushy noodles in the final dish!