Lasagna is one of those classic comfort foods that everyone loves. But when you throw Gordon Ramsay into the mix, you know it’s going to be something truly special. Known for his precision, creativity, and no-nonsense approach to cooking, Gordon Ramsay’s lasagna recipe elevates the traditional Italian dish with a few expert twists. In this article, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step process of creating this masterpiece at home. Ready to cook like a Michelin-star chef? Let’s dive in!
What is Lasagna?
Lasagna is a layered Italian pasta dish made with wide, flat pasta sheets, rich meat or vegetable sauce, creamy béchamel, and plenty of cheese. With Gordon Ramsay’s version, you’ll enjoy a harmonious balance of flavors that come from using high-quality ingredients and precise cooking techniques. He adds a few unique twists to elevate this dish beyond the ordinary.
Ingredients List for Gordon Ramsay’s Lasagna
To make this dish the way Gordon Ramsay would, gather the finest ingredients. The quality of ingredients is key to making a lasagna that stands out. Here’s what you’ll need for the meat sauce, béchamel sauce, and assembly:
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, finely grated
- 1 celery stick, finely chopped
- 500g ground beef (or a 50-50 mix of ground beef and pork for extra flavor)
- 100ml red wine
- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato purée
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 beef stock cube
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 50g butter
- 50g all-purpose flour
- 500ml milk
- Pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- 12 sheets of lasagna pasta (fresh or store-bought)
- 150g grated mozzarella cheese
- 50g Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Substitutions and Variations
Cooking at home means you can easily adjust the recipe based on your dietary preferences or what you have available in the kitchen. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try for Gordon Ramsay’s lasagna recipe:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground meat with a combination of mushrooms, lentils, and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian lasagna.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna sheets and make the béchamel sauce with gluten-free flour.
- Cheese Substitutes: If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can use vegan mozzarella and Parmesan substitutes, along with plant-based milk for the béchamel sauce.
- Meat Substitutes: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef or pork for a leaner version of the lasagna.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Gordon Ramsay’s lasagna may seem like a big task, but it’s easier than you think. By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to make an impressive dish that’s packed with flavor.
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Increase the heat and add the ground beef (or pork/beef mix). Cook, stirring frequently, until the meat is browned all over.
- Pour in the red wine and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavor to intensify.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, oregano, basil, Worcestershire sauce, beef stock cube, and bay leaf.
- Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and flavorful. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce
- In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour to form a roux, cooking for about 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle boil.
- Season with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- In a large baking dish, start by spreading a layer of meat sauce at the bottom.
- Place a layer of lasagna sheets on top of the meat sauce.
- Spread a layer of béchamel sauce over the pasta sheets.
- Repeat the process, alternating between the meat sauce, lasagna sheets, and béchamel sauce, until you’ve used all the components. The final layer should be béchamel sauce.
- Top the lasagna with grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Lasagna
- Cover the lasagna with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the simmering time: Letting the meat sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes is crucial for deepening the flavor.
- Using cold ingredients: Make sure your béchamel and meat sauces are warm when assembling the lasagna to ensure even cooking.
- Overcooking the pasta: If you’re using dried lasagna sheets, don’t pre-cook them unless the recipe specifically calls for it. They will cook in the oven as the lasagna bakes.
- Not letting the lasagna rest: Don’t rush into cutting the lasagna as soon as it’s out of the oven. Give it time to rest so the layers hold together when sliced.
Serving and Presentation Tips
The beauty of Gordon Ramsay’s lasagna doesn’t stop at how good it tastes—it’s also a dish that can be presented in a visually stunning way. Here are some tips for serving and presenting your lasagna:
How to Serve Lasagna
- Portion Control: Lasagna is rich and hearty, so serving smaller portions with a side salad is often a great idea.
- Accompaniments: Pair the lasagna with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, or garlic bread to complement the richness of the dish.
- Wine Pairing: A full-bodied red wine like Chianti, Barolo, or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the flavors in the lasagna beautifully.
Presentation Ideas for Lasagna
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Adding a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top before serving adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Use Individual Ramekins: If you want a more elegant presentation, assemble and bake the lasagna in individual ramekins. This also ensures everyone gets a perfectly layered portion.
- Layered Height: A well-constructed lasagna should have distinct layers visible when cut. Serve the lasagna in tall slices to showcase these layers.
Lasagna Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. This allows the flavors to meld even more.
- Freezing: Lasagna freezes very well. Assemble it fully, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze. When you’re ready to eat it, bake directly from frozen, adding about 20 minutes to the cooking time.
- Cheese Variation: For a more decadent lasagna, consider adding ricotta cheese between the layers or using a mix of mozzarella and provolone for extra gooeyness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make lasagna without béchamel sauce?
A: Yes, you can substitute béchamel sauce with ricotta cheese mixed with an egg. However, the béchamel adds a rich creaminess that’s hard to beat.
Q: How do I prevent lasagna from becoming too watery?
A: Make sure to simmer your meat sauce until it’s thick and avoid adding too much moisture. Also, let the lasagna rest after baking to allow the layers to set.
Q: Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
A: Absolutely! No-boil noodles save time and are perfect for this recipe, as they absorb the sauce and cook while baking.
Q: How long does lasagna last in the fridge?
A: Lasagna will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
Conclusion
Gordon Ramsay’s lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors, creamy layers, and just the right amount of cheese. Whether you’re making this for a special family dinner or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. With high-quality ingredients, a few expert tips, and a little patience, you’ll create a lasagna that’s both delicious and elegant. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make a lasagna worthy of a Michelin-star chef. Bon appétit!
PrintGordon Ramsay Lasagna Recipe
This Gordon Ramsay lasagna recipe features savory layers of beef ragù and a smooth béchamel sauce between sheets of lasagna pasta. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this lasagna is a classic comfort food packed with rich flavors. Perfect for a Sunday feast, it's a must-try Italian dish made with simple ingredients.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 can chopped tomatoes (14 oz)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ cup red wine (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 9 lasagna sheets
- 2 cups béchamel sauce
- 1 ½ cups grated mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan, add onion, and cook until softened. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, canned tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red wine (if using). Simmer for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer lasagna sheets, meat sauce, and béchamel. Repeat layers.
- Top the final layer with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden and bubbling. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For added depth, use a combination of ground beef and pork.
- The red wine can be omitted if preferred.
- Use fresh lasagna sheets for a quicker cook time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅙ of recipe)
- Calories: 560 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
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