Gordon Ramsay Lasagna Recipe

Craving a lasagna that’s rich, comforting, and packed with bold flavors? This Gordon Ramsay-inspired Lasagna recipe is the perfect solution! Known for his expertise in Italian cuisine, Gordon Ramsay’s version of this classic dish takes the traditional layers of pasta, meaty ragu, béchamel sauce, and cheese, and elevates them with simple but refined techniques. This lasagna is perfect for a family dinner or when you want to impress guests with a delicious, hearty meal. Follow along for step-by-step instructions, tips, and substitutions to make this Gordon Ramsay lasagna at home.

What Makes Gordon Ramsay’s Lasagna Special?

Gordon Ramsay’s lasagna recipe differs slightly from traditional Italian lasagna by adding more depth of flavor to the meat sauce (ragu) and using a creamy béchamel to layer between the pasta sheets. His version often includes a mix of beef and pork, rich tomato sauce, fresh herbs, and a hint of red wine, adding boldness and complexity. The dish is topped with Parmesan and mozzarella for that classic, cheesy lasagna finish.

Ingredients List for Gordon Ramsay’s Lasagna

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to recreate this lasagna masterpiece. Feel free to adjust quantities based on personal taste or availability.

For the Meat Sauce (Ragu):

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, finely diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 1 cup red wine (optional, for richness)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk (warm)
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Lasagna Layers:

• 12 lasagna sheets (fresh or pre-cooked dry)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing pasta sheets)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

Protein Variations:

• Pork and Beef: You can use a mix of ground pork and beef for extra flavor. Pork adds a slight sweetness and richness to the meat sauce.
• Ground Turkey: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian: Replace the meat with finely chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a vegetarian lasagna. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Cheese Variations:

• Ricotta: You can layer ricotta cheese in the lasagna if you prefer a creamier texture. Simply mix it with a bit of Parmesan, salt, and pepper before layering.
• Gruyere: For a slightly nuttier flavor, swap some of the mozzarella with Gruyere or even fontina cheese.

Sauce Variations:

• Bolognese Sauce: Gordon Ramsay often suggests using a slow-cooked bolognese sauce (meat-based) in his lasagna, where the meat is simmered for 2-3 hours for maximum flavor.
• Alfredo Lasagna: Try using a white Alfredo sauce instead of the tomato-based ragu for a decadent, creamy lasagna variation.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to make your Gordon Ramsay-inspired lasagna.

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce (Ragu)

1.1 Sauté the Vegetables

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and slightly golden.

1.2 Brown the Meat

Add the ground beef (or pork/beef mix) to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Break the meat apart with a spoon and cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.

1.3 Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

1.4 Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the red wine and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the alcohol evaporates and the liquid reduces slightly.

1.5 Add Tomatoes, Herbs, and Broth

Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce should thicken and develop rich flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce

2.1 Make a Roux

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour to create a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the roux is golden but not browned.

2.2 Add Warm Milk

Slowly whisk in the warm milk, continuing to stir as the sauce begins to thicken. Add a pinch of nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

2.3 Simmer the Béchamel

Continue whisking until the béchamel sauce is smooth and creamy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna

3.1 Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

3.2 Layer the Lasagna

In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce (ragu) on the bottom. Place a layer of lasagna sheets over the sauce. Spoon another layer of the meat sauce over the pasta, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce. Sprinkle a small amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Repeat the layers—pasta, ragu, béchamel, and cheese—until you run out of ingredients, ending with a final layer of béchamel and cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake the Lasagna

Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil (to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly) and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve warm.

How to Cook Gordon Ramsay’s Lasagna: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Cook the Meat Sauce: Sauté vegetables, brown the meat, and simmer the sauce with tomatoes and herbs.
2. Prepare the Béchamel: Make a roux, whisk in warm milk, and cook until creamy.
3. Layer the Lasagna: Layer pasta, meat sauce, béchamel, and cheese.
4. Bake: Bake the lasagna covered with foil, then uncover for the last few minutes to brown the cheese.
5. Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest before slicing, then serve with fresh basil.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Undercooking the Ragu: Simmer the meat sauce long enough (at least 30 minutes) to fully develop the flavors. Rushing this step can lead to a less flavorful lasagna.
• Too Much Liquid in the Sauce: Make sure your sauce thickens properly before layering to avoid a watery lasagna. If necessary, let it simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid.
• Not Using Enough Sauce: Be generous with both the meat sauce and béchamel when layering. Too little sauce can result in dry lasagna.
• Skipping the Resting Step: Allowing the lasagna to rest after baking is crucial for the layers to set and the lasagna to slice neatly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Lasagna

Serve the lasagna family-style by cutting it into squares and placing it on a large serving dish. Pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You can also offer freshly grated Parmesan at the table for guests to sprinkle on top.

Presentation Ideas for Lasagna

• Garnish Generously: Add fresh basil or parsley leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve with a Side of Sauce: Reserve a bit of the meat sauce to drizzle on top of the lasagna slices before serving.
• Crusty Garlic Bread: Offer slices of warm garlic bread or focaccia alongside the lasagna.

Gordon Ramsay’s Lasagna Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the lasagna up to 24 hours ahead of time. Assemble the lasagna, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and bake as directed.
• Freezing: Lasagna freezes very well. Assemble the lasagna but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Leftovers: Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use ricotta cheese in this lasagna?

Yes, while Gordon Ramsay's lasagna recipe typically uses béchamel, you can add ricotta cheese for a creamier texture. Mix it with Parmesan and season it before layering.

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake it when ready. It’s a great make-ahead dish for busy days or when hosting guests.

Can I freeze this lasagna?

Yes, lasagna freezes well. You can freeze it unbaked or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Can I make this lasagna gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free lasagna sheets and substitute gluten-free flour in the béchamel sauce to make the dish gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Gordon Ramsay-inspired Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, packed with rich flavors and hearty ingredients. Whether you're feeding a family or entertaining guests, this lasagna recipe is sure to impress. With layers of savory meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and gooey cheese, it’s a dish that brings people together. Follow the step-by-step instructions and enjoy the perfect lasagna every time!

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