Jamie Oliver Lasagne Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Lasagne is a comforting and classic Italian dish that brings together layers of rich, meaty ragu, creamy béchamel sauce, and tender pasta sheets. This recipe offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures, making it a perfect dish for family dinners or special occasions. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a lasagne that’s both hearty and satisfying, with that signature Jamie Oliver twist.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

• Classic Comfort Food: Lasagne is a universally loved dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of a slow-cooked meat sauce and creamy béchamel ensures every bite is full of flavor.
• Perfect for Batch Cooking: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Impressive yet Simple: This dish is a showstopper but is straightforward enough for anyone to make.
• Family Favorite: A dish that both kids and adults will love.

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Chicken And Chorizo Risotto
• Jamie Oliver Chicken And Chorizo Stew
• Jamie Oliver Aubergine Lasagne

What is Jamie Oliver Lasagne?

Jamie Oliver’s Lasagne is a traditional Italian lasagne made with layers of slow-cooked meat ragu, creamy béchamel sauce, and pasta sheets, all topped with a generous amount of melted cheese. This version includes Jamie’s signature touches, such as the use of fresh herbs and a blend of ground meats for a richer flavor.

Jamie Oliver Lasagne Ingredients

For the Ragu (Meat Sauce):

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 2 celery sticks, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 500g (1 lb) ground beef
• 500g (1 lb) ground turkey pork
• 2 x 400g (14 oz) cans of chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 beef or vegetable stock cube
• 2 bay leaves
• Fresh thyme or rosemary, a few sprigs
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 75g (5 tablespoons) unsalted butter
• 75g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour
• 1 liter (4 cups) milk
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste

For the Lasagne:

• 300g (10 oz) lasagne sheets (fresh or dried)
• 150g (5 oz) grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 50g (1.75 oz) grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Lasagne

Step 1: Prepare the Ragu

• Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 10 minutes until the vegetables are softened and beginning to caramelize.
• Add Garlic and Meat: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then add the ground beef and pork, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the meat is browned all over.
• Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine (if using), stock cube, bay leaves, and fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook slowly for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce

• Make the Roux: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes until it forms a paste and starts to bubble slightly.
• Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring there are no lumps. Add the bay leaf and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
• Season the Sauce: Remove the bay leaf and season the béchamel sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagne

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Layer the Lasagne: In a large baking dish, start with a layer of ragu, followed by a layer of lasagne sheets. Spoon over some béchamel sauce, then repeat the layers until you’ve used up all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of béchamel sauce on top.
• Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated mozzarella or cheddar over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan.

Step 4: Bake the Lasagne

• Bake: Place the lasagne in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
• Rest: Allow the lasagne to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut.

Step 5: Serve

• Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Lasagne

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up the delicious ragu and béchamel sauce.
• Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the lasagne.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Lasagne

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil add a deeper flavor to the ragu.
• Let it Rest: Allow the lasagne to rest for 10 minutes after baking to make slicing easier and prevent the layers from sliding.
• Layer Evenly: Try to keep the layers as even as possible to ensure a balanced flavor in each bite.
• Freeze for Later: This lasagne freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep. Just be sure to wrap it tightly before freezing.

Variations of Jamie Oliver Lasagne

• Vegetarian Lasagne: Substitute the meat with vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and spinach for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Spinach and Ricotta Lasagne: Add layers of spinach and ricotta cheese between the lasagne sheets for a creamy, flavorful twist.
• White Sauce Lasagne: Use a white sauce with mushrooms and chicken instead of the traditional ragu for a lighter version.
• Seafood Lasagne: Replace the meat with a mix of seafood like shrimp, scallops, and fish, and use a creamy white sauce.

How to Store Leftovers from Jamie Oliver Lasagne

• Cool Completely: Allow the lasagne to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the lasagne tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How to Reheat Leftovers from Jamie Oliver Lasagne

Oven Reheating:

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Place the lasagne in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil.
• Reheat for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

Microwave Reheating:

• For a quicker option, reheat individual portions in the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 550 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 800mg

FAQs

Can I make Jamie Oliver’s lasagne ahead of time?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s lasagne can be made ahead of time. You can assemble the lasagne, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.

What is the best way to prevent lasagne from being watery?

To prevent lasagne from being watery, make sure to simmer the ragu sauce until it’s thick and well-reduced. Additionally, allow the lasagne to rest for about 10 minutes after baking to let the layers set, which helps prevent excess liquid from pooling.

Can I freeze Jamie Oliver’s lasagne?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s lasagne freezes well. You can freeze it either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely, then wrap and freeze. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Lasagne is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich layers of meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and tender pasta, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Enjoy the hearty flavors and the comforting warmth of this classic dish!

More Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Chicken Thighs
• Jamie Oliver Vegetarian Lasagne Recipe
• Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Chicken Lemon

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