Lasagna in December? Absolutely. But this isn’t your average weeknight dinner.
I love turning it into a Christmas centerpiece layered with seasonal flavors and a bit more indulgence.
It’s like a hug in a dish, messy and warm, perfect for sharing in the chaos of holiday gatherings.
Why This Lasagna Keeps Calling Me Back
It’s the way the flavors meld overnight, the cheesy stretch with each slice, and the nostalgic chaos of holiday prep.
The smell alone sparks memories, and every bite feels like a tiny celebration.
No matter how many times I make it, it always feels like a gift to the table.
Ingredients and Their Festive Roles
- Lasagna noodles: The backbone, sturdy enough to hold sauce and cheese, but can be swapped for gluten-free or veggie noodles.
- Ground beef or turkey: A savory, meaty base, but you can switch to plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
- Marinara sauce: Rich and chunky, add your favorite herbs or a splash of red wine for depth.
- Béchamel sauce: Creamy and smooth, gives the dish a luxurious texture—try with a hint of nutmeg or lemon zest.
- Mozzarella and Parmesan: Melted cheese that turns golden and bubbly, swapping in smoked or aged cheeses adds complexity.
- Seasonal herbs: Fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary brighten the dish with a green, aromatic note.
Tools of the Trade for a Festive Lasagna
- 9×13 inch baking dish: The perfect vessel to layer everything beautifully.
- Large pot: Cook the pasta and prepare the sauce.
- Whisk: For smooth béchamel and mixing sauces.
- Ladle: To evenly distribute sauces and layer ingredients.
- Aluminum foil: Cover the lasagna during baking to prevent over-browning.
Layer, Bake, Celebrate: The Step-by-Step of Christmas Lasagna
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 2: Layer cooked lasagna noodles, a hearty meat sauce, and creamy béchamel in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Step 3: Top with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Step 4: Bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Let it rest for 10 minutes out of the oven before slicing.
Festive Christmas Lasagna
Ingredients
- 12 ounces lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 2 cups milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary seasonal herbs chopped, for flavor
Instructions
- Cook the lasagna noodles in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat until no pink remains, then drain excess fat.
- Add the marinara sauce to the cooked meat, stirring to combine and letting it simmer gently while you prepare the béchamel.
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour and cook for a minute until it turns slightly golden and smells nutty.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 5 minutes. Add a pinch of nutmeg or lemon zest if desired.
- Season the béchamel with chopped fresh herbs and salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
- Begin layering in the prepared baking dish: spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom, then add a layer of noodles, followed by béchamel, and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of cheese.
- Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Remove from the oven, uncover, and let rest for 10 minutes to set the layers.
- Slice and serve hot, enjoying the melty cheese, savory sauce, and fragrant herbs in every bite.
Notes
Nutrition
Spotting the Perfect Bake: Tips and Tricks
- Cheese should be melted and bubbling, with a golden crust on top.
- The edges of the lasagna will start to pull away slightly from the dish, indicating it’s ready.
- The center should be hot and have a slight jiggle but not be runny.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
- Layers get soggy or tear when slicing.? USE a sharp knife to cut through the layers cleanly, avoiding tearing.
- Lasagna slides apart or is runny.? Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to firm up the layers.
- Underbaking or uneven cooking.? Ensure the oven is fully preheated, and bake until bubbly.
- Over-browning the top.? Cover loosely with foil if cheese gets too dark before it’s cooked through.
This dish isn’t just about the flavors; it’s about the messy, joyful process of layering and sharing. The aroma of melting cheese and savory sauce fills the house, making everyone’s stomach rumble. Feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses or add a dash of red pepper flakes for extra warmth. It’s a recipe that invites creativity and personal touches, perfect for making your holiday table a little more special.
