Are you looking to add a Mediterranean twist to your traditional lasagna recipe? Look no further than this flavorful and comforting Greek Style Lasagna! Layers of rich lamb, creamy béchamel sauce, and classic Greek ingredients come together to create a dish that will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed shores of Greece. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving a cozy meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
**Greek Style Lasagna**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package (8 oz) no-boil lasagna noodles
– 1 1/2 cups feta cheese, crumbled
– 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
**For the Béchamel Sauce:**
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pinch of nutmeg
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set it aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground lamb over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in the dried oregano, basil, and tomato paste, making sure the lamb is evenly coated with the seasonings. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes with their juices to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer the mixture for about 10-15 minutes until it slightly thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. To make the béchamel sauce, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste, then slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Cook the sauce, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg, then set aside.
7. Start assembling the lasagna by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top, followed by a generous portion of the meat sauce, crumbled feta cheese, and a drizzle of the béchamel sauce.
8. Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of béchamel sauce and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let the Greek Style Lasagna rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra pop of flavor.
Indulge in the aromatic blend of spices, rich lamb, and creamy cheeses with every bite of this Greek-inspired lasagna dish. Whether you serve it at a special gathering or enjoy it for a cozy night in, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your household. Bon appétit!
