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Deconstructed Lasagna Recipe

Deconstructed lasagna is a contemporary twist on the classic Italian dish. Instead of layering ingredients in a baking dish, this version presents them separately, offering a playful and elegant presentation. This method not only speeds up the cooking process but also allows for creative plating and portion control. The familiar flavors of rich tomato sauce, creamy béchamel, and savory meat filling are all present, but arranged in a way that elevates the traditional comfort food into a sophisticated dish suitable for special occasions or dinner parties.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 people
Calories 316 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Colander
  • Plates for serving

Ingredients
  

Pasta

  • 8 lasagna noodles

Meat Sauce

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp dried basil
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Béchamel Sauce

  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1/4 tbsp nutmeg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Ricotta Mixture

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pasta

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Drain and set aside, drizzling with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Make the Meat Sauce

  • In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
  • Add the ground beef or sausage, cook until browned.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  • Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasional

Prepare the Béchamel Sauce

  • In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  • Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until smooth.
  • Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper

Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
  • Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Deconstructed Lasagna

  • Cut the lasagna noodles into squares or strips.
  • On each plate, place a few pieces of lasagna noodle.
  • Spoon some meat sauce over the noodles.
  • Add a dollop of the ricotta mixture.
  • Drizzle with béchamel sauce.
  • Garnish with fresh basil.

Notes

Tips

  • Cheese Variation: For a richer flavor, add a mix of cheeses such as provolone or gouda.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with a mix of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the meat sauce and cheese mixture in advance to save time on the day of cooking.
  • Customization: Adjust the layers and presentation to suit your style. You can also serve the components separately and let guests build their own lasagna plates.
Enjoy your modern twist on a classic favorite!