Lasagna Recipe

 The world's best lasagna is a timeless classic that combines layers of rich, savory meat sauce, creamy béchamel sauce, tender pasta, and melted cheese. This recipe will guide you through the process of making this delectable dish. Please note that it may take some time and effort, but the end result is well worth it!

Ingredients:

For the Meat Sauce:

- 1 pound (450g) ground beef

- 1/2 pound (225g) ground pork

- 1 onion, finely chopped

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes

- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce

- 2 tablespoons tomato paste

- 2 teaspoons olive oil

- 1 teaspoon dried basil

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1/2 teaspoon sugar

- Salt and pepper to taste

For the Béchamel Sauce:

- 4 cups whole milk

- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

- Salt and pepper to taste

Other Ingredients:

- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions

- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

- 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese

- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:

   a. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until they become translucent.

   b. Add the ground beef and pork to the pan and cook until they brown, breaking the meat into small pieces as it cooks.

   c. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, basil, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors will meld.

2. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:

   a. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

   b. Stir in the flour to create a roux. Cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly until it becomes light golden in color.

   c. Gradually whisk in the milk to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the sauce thickens.

   d. Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Lasagna:

   a. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

   b. In a large baking dish, ladle a small amount of the meat sauce to lightly coat the bottom.

   c. Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce.

   d. Spread a portion of the meat sauce over the noodles, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.

   e. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.

4. Bake the Lasagna:

   a. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.

   b. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.

5. Let it Rest:

   Allow the lasagna to rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will help the layers set and make it easier to serve.

6. Garnish and Serve:

   Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Slice, serve, and enjoy your world's best lasagna!

This lasagna recipe is a labor of love but produces a truly amazing and delicious result that's perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.