Learn How To Make The Perfect Beef Lasagna: Panlasang Pinoy Style!

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of a classic Italian dish with a Pinoy twist! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps of making a delectable beef lasagna panlasang pinoy that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Lasagna Noodles:

• 1 pound lasagna noodles
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

For the Beef Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

For the Cheese Filling:

• 1 pound ricotta cheese
• 1 pound mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lasagna Noodles

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions.
• Drain and sprinkle with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Beef Filling

• In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
• Add onion and garlic and cook until softened.
• Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
• Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until sauce has thickened.

Step 3: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce

• In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
• Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until sauce has thickened.
• Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

• Spread a thin layer of beef filling in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Top with a layer of lasagna noodles.
• Repeat layers of beef filling and noodles twice more.
• Spread the remaining beef filling over the top.
• Top with a layer of ricotta cheese.
• Spread the béchamel sauce over the ricotta cheese.
• Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

Step 5: Bake

• Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the lasagna noodles.
• Season the beef filling generously.
• Allow the lasagna to rest before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Variations

• Add chopped vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the beef filling.
• Use a different type of cheese for the filling, such as cheddar or provolone.
• Make a vegetarian version by replacing the ground beef with lentils or beans.

Troubleshooting

• If the lasagna is too dry, add more beef broth or milk.
• If the lasagna is too wet, cook it for a few minutes longer.
• If the cheese is not melting, increase the oven temperature slightly.

Ending on a Flavorful Note

With this step-by-step guide, you can now confidently create a beef lasagna panlasang pinoy that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the rich flavors and heartwarming comfort of this classic dish, infused with the unique touch of Filipino cuisine.

FAQ

Q: Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
A: Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles, but you may need to cook the lasagna for a few minutes longer.

Q: Can I make the lasagna ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Q: How do I reheat the lasagna?
A: You can reheat the lasagna in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or in the microwave on low power for 5-7 minutes per slice.