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Christmas Eve Lasagna

Delicious Christmas Eve Lasagna to Wow Your Holiday Guests

This Christmas Eve Lasagna blends traditional flavors with a festive twist, perfect for impressing holiday guests.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Resting Time 12 hours
Total Time 14 hours
Servings: 15 slices
Course: Casserole
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Bolognese Sauce
  • 1 pound ground beef or pork or ground turkey for a lighter option
  • 28 ounces San Marzano tomatoes canned diced tomatoes can work in a pinch
  • 1 cup red wine or beef broth for an alcohol-free option
  • ½ cup heavy cream can swap for half-and-half
For the Pesto Ricotta
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese cottage cheese can be used for a lower-fat alternative
  • 1 cup basil pesto store-bought version works
For Assembly
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese Pecorino Romano can offer a more pronounced flavor
  • 12 sheets lasagna noodles no-boil noodles save time, traditional boiled works great too

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Aluminum Foil

Method
 

Instructions
  1. In a large pot over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef or pork, stirring frequently for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked. Add 28 ounces of San Marzano tomatoes, 1 cup of red wine, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low for 90 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 15 ounces of ricotta cheese with 1 cup of basil pesto and ½ cup of heavy cream. Whisk in one beaten egg and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  3. Spread a thin layer of the bolognese sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Lay down a first layer of lasagna noodles, then add a layer of pesto ricotta, followed by more bolognese sauce. Repeat layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with bolognese sauce and Parmesan cheese on top.
  4. Cover the assembled lasagna tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 12 hours to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the foil and bake uncovered for 60 minutes. For a golden top, broil in the last 10 minutes.
  6. Once baked, let the lasagna rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Make ahead and refrigerate or freeze for convenience. Enjoy the layered deliciousness!

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