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Christmas Eve Lasagna

Christmas Eve Lasagna: A Festive Italian Feast to Impress

Discover this festive Christmas Eve Lasagna that brings a flavorful twist to a classic dish, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 15 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Bolognese Sauce
  • 1 lb Ground Beef Feel free to swap with ground turkey for a lower-calorie option.
  • 1 lb Ground Pork Omit for a lighter sauce or use more beef.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil For sautéing the meats and vegetables.
  • 1 medium Onion Adds sweetness to the sauce.
  • 1 large Carrot Brings natural sweetness.
  • 2 stalks Celery Complements the onion and carrot.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Boosts flavor.
  • 1 can San Marzano Tomatoes Essential for robust flavor.
  • 1 cup Red Wine Can be replaced with vegetable broth.
  • 1 tbsp Kosher Salt Essential for seasoning.
  • to taste tsp Pepper Essential for seasoning.
For the Basil Pesto Ricotta
  • 1 cup Basil Pesto Infuses herby freshness.
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Provides creamy texture.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Adds savory kick; reserve some for topping.
  • 2 large Eggs Binds the ricotta mixture.
For Assembly
  • 12 sheets Lasagna Noodles No-boil noodles preferred.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • 9×13-inch baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and pork, cooking until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the diced onion, carrot, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5-6 minutes more. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute before stirring in the San Marzano tomatoes and red wine. Season with salt and pepper, then let the sauce simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 15 ounces of ricotta cheese with ½ cup of basil pesto, 2 beaten eggs, and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper, mixing until everything is well combined and creamy. Set aside in the refrigerator.
  3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spoon a generous layer of bolognese sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a portion of the basil pesto ricotta, and more bolognese sauce. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with bolognese on top. Sprinkle remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
  4. Cover the assembled lasagna tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight. On baking day, remove the foil and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the top is golden.
  5. Let the lasagna rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

Ensure even distribution of bolognese and ricotta layers for the best presentation. Refrigerating overnight allows flavors to meld beautifully.

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