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Christmas Eve Lasagna

Christmas Eve Lasagna: A Festive Family Feast to Savor

This Christmas Eve Lasagna combines rich layers of bolognese and creamy pesto ricotta, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 12 hours
Total Time 13 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 15 slices
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Bolognese Sauce
  • 1 lb Ground Beef can substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option
  • 1 lb Ground Pork
  • 28 oz San Marzano Tomatoes essential for authentic flavor
  • 0.5 cup White Wine can replace with broth for a non-alcoholic option
  • to taste Kosher Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
For the Pesto Ricotta
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese no direct substitutes
  • 0.5 cup Basil Pesto store-bought or homemade
  • 1 Eggs important for binding
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese can substitute with Pecorino Romano
For the Lasagna
  • 12 oz Lasagna Noodles no-boil noodles can streamline cooking

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • 9x13 baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and pork, cooking until browned, about 8–10 minutes. Pour in white wine, allowing it to simmer for 2–3 minutes before adding San Marzano tomatoes and seasonings. Reduce heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened and fragrant.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, basil pesto, beaten egg, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth, season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of bolognese sauce, layer lasagna noodles, followed by half of the pesto ricotta mixture. Repeat layers, finishing with bolognese and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
  4. Cover the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or up to 3 days.
  5. Remove plastic wrap and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 1 hour, uncover for the last 10 minutes to achieve a golden crust.
  6. Allow the lasagna to cool for 15–20 minutes before slicing into portions.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Allowing the lasagna to rest enhances flavor. Use no-boil noodles for convenience and consider cheese variations for added richness.

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