Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce
The Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. This comforting dish combines layers of tender lasagna noodles with savory ham, rich ricotta, and gooey cheese, all enveloped in a luscious creamy Mornay sauce. As it bakes, the aroma fills your kitchen, promising warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, this lasagna brings smiles to the table and is sure to impress your guests. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to gather everyone for a hearty meal.
Get ready to create a dish that appeals to the senses and fills bellies, making it a perfect choice for any weeknight dinner or festive gathering. 🌟 #LasagnaLove #ComfortFood
Why Make This Recipe
You will love making this Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce for many reasons:
- Delicious Layers: The combination of ham, ricotta, and melted cheese creates an irresistible fusion of flavors.
- Creamy and Rich: The Mornay sauce adds a smooth, creamy texture that elevates the dish.
- Easy to Assemble: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This lasagna tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic meal prep option.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck, this lasagna is sure to impress everyone at the table!
How to Make Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce
Making this Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce is simple and fun! Just follow these steps to create a satisfying meal. You’ll need a list of ingredients to get started.
Ingredients:
- 6 large fresh lasagna sheets
- 6 slices deli ham
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Nutmeg (optional)
Directions:
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Step 2: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook until lightly golden.
- Step 3: Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until thickened.
- Step 4: Add cheese (mozzarella and Parmesan) to the sauce, stirring until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
- Step 5: In a baking dish, spread a layer of Mornay sauce on the bottom.
- Step 6: Layer with 2 lasagna sheets, followed by half of the ham, half of the ricotta, and a third of the remaining sauce.
- Step 7: Repeat layers, finishing with the last 2 lasagna sheets and topping with the remaining cheese.
- Step 8: Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let it sit for 10 minutes before slicing.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large baking dish
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kitchen knife
How to Serve Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce
For the best experience, serve the lasagna hot straight from the oven. Pair it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You might also serve it with a glass of your favorite white wine to enhance the flavors.
How to Store Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce
If you have leftovers, let the lasagna cool completely before storing. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. The lasagna can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover it with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Tips to Make Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce
- Use fresh lasagna sheets if possible for the best texture.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- For a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Letting the lasagna cool before slicing helps prevent it from falling apart.
Variation
You can easily customize this lasagna. Instead of ham, try adding cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor. For a vegetarian version, you could leave out the meat and load it with extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. Experiment with different cheeses as well, such as gouda or cheddar.
FAQs
-
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, no-boil lasagna noodles can be used. Adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. -
Can I freeze the lasagna?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked lasagna. Just wrap it well and store it for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, cook from frozen, adding extra baking time. -
How do I know when the lasagna is done?
The lasagna is done when the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can insert a knife in the center; it should come out hot. -
Can I substitute the cheeses?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheeses or whatever you have on hand. -
What should I do if I make too much sauce?
If you have leftover Mornay sauce, you can use it as a delicious sauce for pasta or to drizzle over steamed vegetables.
Personal Cook’s Note
Making this Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce reminds me of family gatherings at my grandmother’s house. She would spend hours in the kitchen, crafting her perfect lasagna while we would eagerly wait, our stomachs rumbling with anticipation. The moment we took a bite, we knew it was worth the wait. As you make this dish, feel free to put your twist on it. Maybe add a touch of your favorite spices or invite the kids to help layer the ingredients. I would love to hear your thoughts and any personal touches you add to this recipe!
Print
Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful twist on a classic favorite that combines tender lasagna noodles with savory ham, rich ricotta, and gooey cheese, enveloped in a creamy Mornay sauce.
Ingredients
- 6 large fresh lasagna sheets
- 6 slices deli ham
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook until lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until thickened.
- Add cheese (mozzarella and Parmesan) to the sauce, stirring until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of Mornay sauce on the bottom.
- Layer with 2 lasagna sheets, followed by half of the ham, half of the ricotta, and a third of the remaining sauce.
- Repeat layers, finishing with the last 2 lasagna sheets and topping with the remaining cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let it sit for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
For best texture, use fresh lasagna sheets. Feel free to add vegetables or use different meats for variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg