Gordon Ramsay Lasagna Recipe

If you're craving a hearty and delicious meal that brings everyone together, then this Gordon Ramsay-inspired lasagna recipe is exactly what you need. Known for his Michelin-starred restaurants and no-nonsense approach to cooking, Gordon Ramsay’s lasagna has become a sought-after dish for its rich flavors, perfectly cooked pasta, and savory sauce. In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to create a lasagna that’s bursting with flavor—step-by-step. So, grab your apron, because by the end of this guide, you'll have the ultimate lasagna recipe at your fingertips. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

What is Lasagna?

Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish made with layers of flat pasta, typically interspersed with rich fillings such as ground meat, tomato sauce, béchamel, and cheese. Originating from the region of Emilia-Romagna, lasagna has evolved over the centuries into various forms across the globe. Gordon Ramsay’s take on lasagna balances classic Italian traditions with a chef's modern twist. The result? A mouthwatering, perfectly layered lasagna that can turn any meal into a feast.

Ingredients List for Gordon Ramsay’s Lasagna

Before we dive into the steps, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to create this savory masterpiece. Here is the full ingredient list:

For the Meat Sauce (Ragù):

• 500g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for added flavor)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery sticks, diced
• 1 can (400g) of chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoon tomato paste
• 200ml red wine (optional, but highly recommended for depth of flavor)
• 200ml beef stock
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoon olive oil

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 50g butter
• 50g all-purpose flour
• 500ml whole milk
• Pinch of ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese

For the Lasagna Layers:

• 12 lasagna sheets (you can use store-bought or homemade if you’re feeling ambitious)
• 200g mozzarella cheese, grated
• 100g Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

If you want to tweak the traditional recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs, here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

• Vegetarian Lasagna: Swap out the ground meat for a mix of mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. You can still use the tomato sauce base and even add lentils for added texture.
• Gluten-Free Lasagna: Use gluten-free lasagna sheets and substitute the all-purpose flour in the béchamel with a gluten-free version.
• Cheese Lovers Lasagna: If you’re a cheese enthusiast, add ricotta or cottage cheese between the layers for a creamier texture.
• Dairy-Free Lasagna: For those who are lactose intolerant, you can use dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives like almond milk and vegan cheese.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to start cooking! This lasagna recipe is broken down into manageable steps, so even if you're a beginner, you can achieve that restaurant-quality flavor.

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

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce (Ragù)

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Add the ground beef (or beef and pork mixture) to the pan and brown the meat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
3. Once the meat is browned, pour in the red wine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the alcohol has evaporated and the wine has reduced.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, canned tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Pour in the beef stock, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. The sauce should thicken as it cooks.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste and set the sauce aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce

1. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes to create a roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
4. Add a pinch of ground nutmeg, salt, pepper, and the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted into the sauce. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a large baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom.
3. Place a layer of lasagna sheets on top of the sauce. (Tip: Do not overlap the sheets, as they’ll expand while cooking.)
4. Add a layer of béchamel sauce over the lasagna sheets, followed by a generous sprinkle of grated mozzarella cheese.
5. Repeat the layers: meat sauce, lasagna sheets, béchamel, and mozzarella, until you’ve used up all your ingredients. End with a final layer of béchamel and mozzarella cheese.
6. Sprinkle the top with the grated Parmesan cheese for a golden, crispy finish.

Step 4: Bake the Lasagna

1. Cover the lasagna with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
3. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before cutting into it to allow the layers to set.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the pasta sheets: If you’re using store-bought sheets that require boiling, make sure not to overcook them. They’ll continue to cook in the oven, and you want them to hold up the layers, not become mushy.
2. Skipping the resting time: It’s tempting to dig into the lasagna right away, but allowing it to rest for 10 minutes helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice.
3. Not seasoning enough: Make sure to season each layer, from the meat sauce to the béchamel. Lasagna should be flavorful throughout.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Lasagna is a dish that’s all about comfort, but it doesn’t hurt to make it look just as delicious as it tastes. Here are some serving and presentation tips:

How to Serve Gordon Ramsay’s Lasagna

• Family Style: Serve the lasagna directly from the baking dish at the table. Cut it into large squares and let everyone help themselves.
• Individual Portions: For a more refined presentation, cut the lasagna into perfect squares using a sharp knife. Use a spatula to transfer the piece to individual plates without breaking the layers.
• With a Side Salad: Pair your lasagna with a light, crisp green salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The acidity of the salad will help cut through the richness of the lasagna.

Presentation Ideas for Gordon Ramsay’s Lasagna

• Garnish with Fresh Basil: A few fresh basil leaves on top add a pop of color and freshness.
• Parmesan Dusting: Just before serving, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan on top for an extra cheesy touch.
• Serve in a Cast Iron Dish: Present the lasagna in a rustic cast-iron dish for a homestyle, yet chic presentation.

Gordon Ramsay’s Lasagna Recipe Tips

• Double the Recipe: Lasagna freezes beautifully, so consider doubling the recipe and saving one for a rainy day. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake until heated through.
• Make It Ahead: Lasagna can be made a day in advance. Just assemble and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it.
• Use Fresh Pasta: If you have the time, making your own fresh pasta sheets will elevate the dish even further. Fresh pasta absorbs the sauce better and has a wonderful texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I freeze lasagna?
A: Yes! Lasagna freezes very well. You can freeze it baked or unbaked. To freeze unbaked lasagna, assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely before wrapping and freezing.

Q: How long can lasagna be stored in the fridge?
A: Lasagna can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.

Q: Can I use pre-made pasta sauce instead of making my own?
A: While you can use pre-made pasta sauce for convenience, making your own sauce adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. If you do use pre-made sauce, try to choose a high-quality option and simmer it with additional herbs and spices.

Q: Can I make lasagna without béchamel sauce?
A: Yes, although béchamel adds a creamy texture and richness to the dish. If you prefer to skip it, you can substitute it with ricotta or just add extra cheese between the layers.

Conclusion

Gordon Ramsay’s lasagna is a show-stopping dish that can be the centerpiece of any dinner table. With its layers of flavorful meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melty cheese, this lasagna is bound to impress. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try some of the suggested variations, this lasagna will quickly become a family favorite. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get cooking!

Print