By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on August 11, 2023 | Last Updated on August 19, 2023
Lasagna is an Italian dish that’s been around for centuries and has gained immense popularity in the last few decades. It’s a classic comfort food that never fails to impress.
Whether you’re looking to surprise dinner guests or just make something delicious for your family, this dish is from world-renowned chef and restaurateur Lidia Bastianich and is sure to hit the spot.
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make an authentic lasagna that’s packed with flavor and bound to become a family favorite. From pre-cooking the noodles to creating the perfect sauce, find out how you can bring this classic Italian dish into your own kitchen!
What is Lidia Bastianich’s Lasagna ?
Lidia Bastianich is an award-winning chef, restaurateur, and television personality who has become one of the most celebrated Italian chefs in the United States. Her lasagna is as classic as it gets – made with fresh ingredients.
All of these ingredients come together to make a deliciously creamy and flavorful lasagna that’s sure to satisfy your craving. This is incredibly easy to follow, so even if you’re new to the kitchen you can whip up this classic Italian dish in just a few times!
And since it’s made with simple ingredients that can be found in most grocery stores, it’s a great choice if you don’t have access to specialty ingredients. So get ready for a delicious lasagna that will transport you and your family straight to Italy!
What does it taste like?
Lidia Bastianich’s lasagna is an incredibly rich and flavorful dish that will transport you to Italy! The combination of creamy mozzarella cheese, nutty Grana Padano cheese, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves creates a delicious harmony that can’t be beaten.
This classic Italian dish has a unique texture thanks to the combination of ingredients. The lasagna noodles are perfectly al dente and firm, while the creamy sauce and cheese provide a delicious contrast in texture.
A sprinkle of Grana Padano cheese on top adds a nutty flavor that brings it all together. This is truly an Italian feast for your taste buds!
How did I first get introduced to Lidia Bastianich’s Lasagna?
I first stumbled upon Lidia Bastianich’s lasagna on a visit to one of her restaurants. I had heard about the renowned chef from friends and was eager to try her unique spin on Italian cuisine. When I came across the lasagna on the menu, I decided to give it a try.
The first bite was truly unforgettable. The combination of the creamy cheese, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil left me wanting more. I knew I had to learn how to make it myself so that I could share this incredible dish with others.
So upon returning home, I set out on a mission to recreate this delicious lasagna. After scouring the internet, I stumbled upon Lidia Bastianich’s own recipe. After a few attempts, I was able to get it just right!
Now, whenever I have family and friends over, I can proudly serve up a classic Italian dish that they will surely enjoy. Thanks to this delicious lasagna from Lidia Bastianich, now I’m able to share the unique Italian flavors with everyone I love.
How to make Lidia Bastianich’s Lasagna?
Making this classic dish is surprisingly easy – all you need to do is layer your ingredients and let the oven do the rest of the work!
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Ingredients
- Lasagna Noodles: Use either lasagna sheets that require pre-cooking or no-boil sheets.
- Cheese: Low-moisture mozzarella cheese and Grana Padano cheese are the best to use for this recipe.
- Heavy Cream: Heavy cream is necessary to make the lasagna extra creamy and decadent.
- Salt & Peperoncino Flakes: A little bit of salt and peperoncino flakes gives the lasagna a nice hit of spice.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is necessary to cook the garlic and tomatoes in.
- Garlic & Basil Leaf: Garlic and basil leaves add an amazing flavor to the lasagna.
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes are the base of the sauce and they add an amazing flavor to the lasagna.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2
In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over low heat. Add garlic and sauté until lightly golden.
Step 3
Add tomatoes, salt, and peperoncino flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4
Remove from heat and stir in basil leaves.
Step 5
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Layer lasagna sheets, followed by a layer of tomato sauce, then sprinkle some mozzarella cheese over the top. Repeat until all ingredients are used up ending with mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 6
Pour heavy cream over the top of the lasagna.
Step 7
Cover with foil and place in a preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
Step 8
Let cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle Grana Padano cheese over the top before serving.
Tips
- Use low-moisture mozzarella cheese for a creamier lasagna
- If you don’t have tomatoes, you can use tomato paste instead
- If you’re feeling adventurous, add some cooked Italian sausage to the sauce for extra flavor
- To make your lasagna even more flavorful, try adding some freshly chopped herbs such as oregano or thyme to the tomato sauce.
- To make an even creamier lasagna, add a layer of ricotta cheese in between the layers of lasagna noodles.
- For an even cheesier lasagna, add some grated parmesan cheese on top before baking.
Lidia Bastianich Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 finely crushed cloves of garlic
- 1 1/4 cups of freshly grated Grana Padano cheese
- 8 sheets of no-boil lasagna noodles
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 14 ounces can of diced tomatoes or fresh tomatoes
- Pepperoncini flake as desire
- 5 tsp of extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup of Low-moisture mozzarella cheese finely grated
- 1 large sprigs of basil leaf
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat some olive oil in a medium saucepan over low heat. Toss in the garlic and stir until lightly golden.
- Pour in the tomatoes, season with salt, and add a pinch of peperoncino flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from the heat and mix in the basil leaves.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Layer lasagna sheets, followed by a layer of tomato sauce, then sprinkle some mozzarella cheese over the top. Repeat until all ingredients have been used up with mozzarella cheese on top being the last layer.
- Pour heavy cream over the top of the lasagna.
- Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven for 30 minutes. Take off the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle Grana Padano cheese over the top as garnish. Enjoy your delicious lasagna!
Notes
- Use low-moisture mozzarella cheese for a creamier lasagna
- If you don’t have tomatoes, you can use tomato paste instead
- If you’re feeling adventurous, add some cooked Italian sausage to the sauce for extra flavor
- To make your lasagna even more flavorful, try adding some freshly chopped herbs such as oregano or thyme to the tomato sauce.
- To make an even creamier lasagna, add a layer of ricotta cheese in between the layers of lasagna noodles.
- For an even cheesier lasagna, add some grated parmesan cheese on top before baking.
Nutrition Information
What to serve with Lidia Bastianich’s Lasagna?
Serving this delicious lasagna is easy – no side dish is necessary! Just a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing will do the trick.
But if you’re in the mood for something a bit heartier, try adding an Italian-style protein such as grilled chicken or sausage to your plate.
You can also serve it with garlic bread or focaccia for a complete meal. And don’t forget some freshly grated parmesan cheese to top it all off!
How to store leftover Lidia Bastianich’s Lasagna?
Leftover lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap so that it doesn’t dry out.
If you want to freeze leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 6 months. When ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake for 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can eat this lasagna as long as the ingredients are cooked thoroughly and stored properly. Be sure to always check labels on any pre-packaged ingredients to make sure they are safe for pregnant women.
Additionally, it is important for pregnant women to be mindful of their calcium intake since dairy products like mozzarella cheese contain high levels of calcium.
A slice or two of lasagna is totally fine, but just be sure to not overindulge as lactose intolerance can increase during pregnancy. It is best to consult your doctor first before consuming.
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! To make a vegan version, substitute the cheese with vegan alternatives such as nut-based cheeses or store-bought vegan mozzarella. Additionally, you can use plant-based milk instead of heavy cream.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta. This will ensure that your lasagna is safe for anyone with a gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
Can I make this healthier?
Yes, you can definitely make this healthier by replacing the cheese with lower-fat varieties and using a lighter cream such as half-and-half or plant-based milk. Additionally, adding extra vegetables to the tomato sauce will give your lasagna more nutrition while still keeping it delicious.
Can I add other types of vegetables?
Yes, absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables into the tomato sauce such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. These will all work great and add even more flavor and nutrition to this already delicious dish.
What If I don’t have tomatoes?
You can substitute the tomatoes with canned tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes. Just make sure to season it well and give it a good simmer before adding your other ingredients.
Wrapping Up
Thank you for reading this article on delicious and authentic Lasagna. I hope you try it out and let me know how it turned out!
Lasagna is a dish that can be tailored to every palate, so feel free to customize the ingredients to your taste.
And if you’re ever in doubt, just remember that the best tip of all is to follow your heart. If you like this, please consider sharing it with your friends and family.
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
