There’s something undeniably magical about Bolognese Lasagna with Mozzarella. The layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and gooey mozzarella cheese come together in a way that feels like a warm hug for your taste buds. If you’ve ever wanted to make a lasagna that’s hearty, flavorful, and impressively homemade, this recipe is your new best friend.
Honestly, I’ve made (and tasted) a ton of lasagnas in my time, but this one strikes the perfect balance—deep, savory Bolognese paired with that melty mozzarella goodness, and creamy béchamel that holds everything together like a dream. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself on a cozy night in, this dish delivers comfort and satisfaction in every forkful. Ready to master the art of this Italian classic? Let’s get cooking!
What Is Bolognese Lasagna with Mozzarella?
Bolognese Lasagna with Mozzarella is a traditional Italian baked dish made by layering sheets of pasta with a rich, slow-simmered meat sauce called Bolognese, creamy béchamel sauce, and generous amounts of mozzarella cheese. Unlike other lasagnas that rely solely on ricotta or parmesan, this version highlights mozzarella’s stretchy, gooey texture which perfectly complements the robust meat sauce.
- Bolognese sauce is made from ground meat, tomatoes, wine, and aromatic veggies, slowly cooked to develop a deep, complex flavor.
- Mozzarella cheese adds that luscious melt and slight sweetness.
- Béchamel sauce (white sauce) brings creaminess and binds the layers together.
This trifecta creates a mouthwatering balance of texture and taste.
Why You Should Make This Lasagna at Home
- It’s a classic comfort food that’s surprisingly straightforward to make.
- The rich meat sauce can be prepped ahead, making weeknight dinners easier.
- Using mozzarella gives a delightful cheesy pull that’s irresistible.
- It feeds a crowd, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
- You control the ingredients, making it healthier and fresher than store-bought versions.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Recipe
For the Bolognese Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or half beef, half pork for richer flavor)
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup dry red wine (optional but recommended)
- ½ cup whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or Italian seasoning
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lasagna Assembly:
- 9–12 lasagna noodles (fresh or no-boil)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bolognese Lasagna with Mozzarella
1. Make the Bolognese Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery and sauté until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Pour in the wine and let it reduce slightly. Add crushed tomatoes and milk, season with salt, pepper, and herbs. Simmer gently for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbling (this is your roux). Gradually add warm milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
3. Cook the Lasagna Noodles (If Not Using No-Boil)
Boil pasta sheets according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce. Layer noodles over the sauce. Spread a generous layer of Bolognese sauce, then a layer of béchamel, followed by shredded mozzarella. Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with béchamel and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake to Perfection
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Pro Tips for an Irresistible Lasagna
- Use a mix of beef and pork for a richer Bolognese.
- Let your Bolognese simmer low and slow for max flavor.
- Don’t skip the béchamel—it’s what makes the layers creamy and cohesive.
- Use fresh mozzarella if possible for a more authentic melt.
- Allow the lasagna to rest before serving to set the layers and avoid runny slices.
Nutritional Breakdown Per Serving (Approximate)
| Ingredient | Calories | Carbohydrates (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef (4 oz) | 290 | 0 | 22 | 23 |
| Lasagna Noodles (3 sheets) | 210 | 42 | 7 | 1 |
| Mozzarella Cheese (½ cup) | 160 | 1 | 12 | 11 |
| Parmesan Cheese (2 tbsp) | 44 | 0.9 | 4 | 3 |
| Béchamel Sauce (½ cup) | 120 | 10 | 4 | 7 |
| Tomato Sauce (½ cup) | 40 | 8 | 1 | 0 |
| Total per serving | 864 | 61.9 | 50 | 45 |
This classic lasagna packs protein and carbs with a rich fat content, making it a satisfying, hearty meal perfect for family dinners.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using watery tomato sauce—thicker sauce keeps your lasagna from becoming soggy.
- Overcooking noodles—al dente is the way to go.
- Skipping the béchamel or using too little—this sauce is key to creamy layers.
- Not letting the lasagna rest after baking—slices fall apart if served immediately.
FAQs About Bolognese Lasagna with Mozzarella
Q1: Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, or freeze it for longer storage.
Q2: Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?
A: Absolutely, though the flavor will be lighter and less rich.
Q3: What’s the best mozzarella to use?
A: Fresh mozzarella offers a creamier texture, but shredded low-moisture mozzarella works great too.
Q4: Do I have to use béchamel sauce?
A: You can skip it, but béchamel adds creaminess and balances the acidity of the tomato sauce beautifully.
Q5: Can I make a vegetarian version?
A: Try using lentils or mushrooms in place of meat to keep that hearty texture.
Why I Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
IMO, Bolognese Lasagna with Mozzarella is the ultimate comfort food that hits all the right notes—rich, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. It’s also surprisingly flexible; you can tweak the sauces or cheeses to suit your preferences and still end up with a dish that’s pure magic.
I love making it for Sunday dinners when family and friends come over. The smell alone fills the house with warmth and anticipation—plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day (if there are any left!).
Your Turn!
Feeling inspired to try this Bolognese Lasagna with Mozzarella recipe? Go ahead and make it your own. Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices or add your favorite veggies. And hey, if you give it a whirl, drop a comment or share your photos—let’s swap tips and celebrate great food together! 🍝🧀❤️
Additional Resources
- Want to learn more about authentic Bolognese sauce? Check out this guide from Eataly.
- Curious about making homemade béchamel? Here’s a step-by-step béchamel sauce tutorial.
Final Thoughts
Making Bolognese Lasagna with Mozzarella from scratch might sound intimidating, but with a little patience and love, it’s one of the most rewarding meals you can create. It’s rich, cheesy, and filled with layers of flavor that bring everyone to the table smiling.
So, roll up your sleeves, fire up that oven, and get ready to enjoy a classic Italian masterpiece in your own kitchen. Mangia! 😄🍽️
