Lasagna is a classic Italian dish that many of us love, and Gordon Ramsay's take on this beloved comfort food elevates it to new heights. This recipe will show you how to master a lasagna that’s bursting with rich flavors, creamy sauces, and perfectly cooked pasta layers. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to leave everyone craving more. Read on to learn all the tips, tricks, and secrets to making the best Gordon Ramsay-style lasagna!

What is Gordon Ramsay's Lasagna?
Gordon Ramsay's lasagna is his unique twist on the traditional Italian dish. Known for his signature approach to combining bold flavors and culinary techniques, this lasagna features rich beef ragu, creamy béchamel sauce, fresh pasta sheets, and a perfect balance of herbs and spices. What makes this recipe stand out is its emphasis on high-quality ingredients and attention to detail in each step of the preparation.
Ingredients List for Gordon Ramsay's Lasagna
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 2 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 ½ cups canned tomatoes (crushed or diced)
- 1 ½ cups beef stock
- 1 glass red wine (optional but recommended for depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or fresh basil leaves)
- 1 bay leaf
- Lasagna sheets, enough for multiple layers (preferably fresh or high-quality dried pasta)
Ingredients List for the Béchamel Sauce
- 4 tablespoon butter
- 4 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but adds a creamy richness)
Substitutions and Variations
- Ground meat options: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version, or opt for a combination of beef, pork, and veal for richer flavor.
- Vegetarian lasagna: Replace the meat with lentils, mushrooms, or a medley of vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and eggplant to create a delicious vegetarian version.
- Dairy-free béchamel: Swap out the milk and butter for plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter to make the recipe dairy-free.
- Pasta sheets: While fresh pasta sheets are ideal, dried lasagna sheets work just fine. You can even use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-sensitive option.
- Cheese: If Parmesan is not available, you can use other aged cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Ragu
Start by heating olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, carrot, and celery, cooking until they soften (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Next, add the ground beef (or meat combination) and brown it thoroughly, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once the meat is browned, add the tomato paste and stir well to combine, cooking for another 2 minutes to let the paste caramelize.
Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for a few minutes, reducing slightly. Add the canned tomatoes, beef stock, dried herbs, and bay leaf. Stir to combine all the ingredients. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes (up to an hour for deeper flavor), stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and remove the bay leaf before assembling the lasagna.
Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, but be careful not to let it brown.
Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. For extra creaminess, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Set the sauce aside.
Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Sheets
If using fresh pasta sheets, blanch them in boiling salted water for about 1 minute, then drain and set aside. For dried pasta sheets, cook them according to the package instructions until al dente. Be sure to cool them on a flat surface to avoid sticking.
How to Cook Gordon Ramsay’s Lasagna: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Layer the Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by spreading a thin layer of the meat ragu in the bottom of a baking dish. Follow with a layer of lasagna sheets, then a layer of béchamel sauce. Repeat this process, layering ragu, pasta sheets, and béchamel until you've used up all the ingredients. Finish with a layer of béchamel on top, ensuring the pasta is fully covered.
Step 2: Add Cheese
Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the final layer. If you prefer, you can mix Parmesan with mozzarella for an extra cheesy, bubbly finish.
Step 3: Bake
Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once the lasagna is cooked, allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving much easier.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: If your pasta sheets are too soft, they’ll turn mushy during baking. Cook them until just al dente.
- Skipping the resting time: Allowing the lasagna to rest after baking is essential for it to hold its shape when sliced.
- Too much liquid in the sauce: Make sure your ragu is thick and not too watery; otherwise, the lasagna will turn out soggy.
- Not enough seasoning: Both the ragu and the béchamel should be properly seasoned to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How to Serve Gordon Ramsay’s Lasagna
Lasagna is best served hot and fresh out of the oven, but giving it some time to rest ensures it holds its shape. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of red wine for a complete meal. Garlic bread is also a classic side that complements the richness of the dish.
Presentation Ideas for Gordon Ramsay’s Lasagna
- Rustic Style: Serve lasagna directly from the baking dish, allowing your guests to enjoy the visual appeal of the bubbling cheese and golden-brown top.
- Individual Portions: For a fancier presentation, use smaller ramekins to bake individual portions of lasagna. This adds a touch of elegance to a dinner party.
- Garnish: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Gordon Ramsay’s Lasagna Recipe Tips
- Prep ahead: Both the ragu and béchamel can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Lasagna freezes well. You can assemble it and freeze before baking, or freeze leftovers in individual portions.
- Reheating: When reheating lasagna, cover it with foil and bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, lasagna is a great dish to prepare ahead. You can assemble it the day before, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready.
How long does lasagna last in the fridge?
Lasagna can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it's tightly covered or stored in an airtight container.
Can I freeze lasagna?
Absolutely! Lasagna freezes well for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze it unbaked, but you can also freeze cooked lasagna.
What can I use instead of beef in this recipe?
You can substitute the beef with turkey, chicken, or even lamb for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or mushrooms.
Why does my lasagna turn out watery?
This usually happens if the meat sauce or béchamel sauce is too thin. Make sure both are thickened properly before assembling the lasagna.
Conclusion
Mastering Gordon Ramsay’s lasagna recipe might take a bit of practice, but the result is a deliciously comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and perfectly cooked pasta, this lasagna is sure to impress your friends and family. Follow this step-by-step guide, avoid common mistakes, and experiment with variations to make this classic dish your own. Ready to cook the ultimate lasagna? Start now and enjoy every layer of flavor!
PrintGordon Ramsay Lasagna Recipe
This Gordon Ramsay lasagna recipe features layers of rich ground beef, creamy béchamel sauce, and tender lasagna sheets, creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. A delicious and comforting dish ideal for family dinners. Keywords: Gordon Ramsay lasagna, classic lasagna recipe, beef lasagna, Italian lasagna.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Lasagna sheets
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Canned tomatoes
- Tomato paste
- Red wine
- Olive oil
- Butter
- Flour
- Milk
- Parmesan cheese
- Mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Sauté garlic and onions in olive oil. Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in tomato paste, canned tomatoes, red wine, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.
- In another pan, melt butter, add flour to make a roux, then whisk in milk to create the béchamel sauce.
- Layer meat sauce, lasagna sheets, béchamel, and cheese in a baking dish. Repeat layers, ending with cheese on top.
- Bake for 45 minutes, until golden brown. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute red wine with beef broth if desired.
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of ground beef and pork.
- Let the lasagna rest before serving to ensure clean slices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅙th of lasagna)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
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