If you are craving something that feels like a warm, comforting hug from Italy, the Lasagna Cake with Bolognese, Mornay, and Ricotta Recipe is the perfect choice. This creative twist on the classic lasagna layers tender sheets of fresh pasta with a rich, slow-simmered Bolognese, luscious Mornay sauce, and creamy ricotta, stacked up like a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s satisfying but elegant, making it a fantastic centerpiece for family dinners or special occasions when you want to impress without fuss. The multiple layers combine incredible textures and flavors that melt into one another with every bite—trust me, this dish is a showstopper you’ll want to share again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Lasagna Cake with Bolognese, Mornay, and Ricotta Recipe are straightforward but essential. Each one plays a vital role in creating the layers of flavor and texture, from the hearty meat sauce to the creamy cheeses and silky pasta. Gathering these simple staples ensures your final creation is truly special and soul-satisfying.
- Ground beef (or mix): Provides rich, savory depth and the meaty base for the Bolognese sauce.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Adds fruitiness and richness while sautéing the veggies and finishing the bake.
- Yellow onion, carrot, celery: Classic soffritto that builds the aromatic foundation of the sauce.
- Garlic cloves: Punches up the flavor with subtle warmth and earthiness.
- White or red wine: Adds acidity and complexity that balance the richness of the meat and cream.
- Tomato paste and crushed tomatoes: Create a deep, luscious tomato flavor with a hint of sweetness.
- Heavy cream and nutmeg: Make the sauce velvety and enhance the savory notes.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the natural flavors.
- Salted butter, all-purpose flour, whole milk: For the Mornay sauce, the classic creamy cheese sauce that adds silkiness.
- Parmigiano Reggiano: Offers a sharp, nutty flavor that makes both sauces and the topping irresistible.
- Fresh pasta sheets: Cut into circles—fresh pasta bakes to tender perfection with a delicate chew.
- Whole milk mozzarella: Melts beautifully and adds gooiness between the layers.
- Whole milk ricotta: Creamy and mild, it balances the richness with fresh dairy goodness.
- Italian parsley: Brightens the final dish with fresh herbal notes.
How to Make Lasagna Cake with Bolognese, Mornay, and Ricotta Recipe
Step 1: Make the Bolognese Sauce
Begin by sautéing the chopped onion, carrot, and celery in olive oil until they are soft and fragrant—this soffritto is where the magic starts. Then add minced garlic followed by the ground beef, cooking until browned and full of flavor. Pour in your choice of white or red wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those wonderful browned bits. Stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes, then season with a pinch of nutmeg and salt to taste. Let this simmer gently for about 30 minutes to develop a luscious, rich sauce, finishing it with a splash of heavy cream to make it decadently smooth.
Step 2: Prepare the Mornay Sauce
While the Bolognese simmers, it’s time to whip up the Mornay sauce, which is essentially a creamy cheese bechamel. Melt salted butter in a pan, then whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for a couple of minutes to form a roux—this helps thicken the sauce without lumps. Slowly pour in whole milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens perfectly. Next, stir in finely grated Parmigiano Reggiano, which melts into the sauce creating a luscious, rich layer that adds the perfect cheesy complement to the tangy tomato meat sauce.
Step 3: Assemble Your Lasagna Cake
Now comes the fun part. Using fresh pasta circles cut from sheets, begin your assembly by layering a pasta circle on the bottom of your baking pan. Spoon on a generous layer of your homemade Bolognese, followed by dollops of creamy ricotta and shredded mozzarella. Drizzle over some of your heavenly Mornay sauce and sprinkle with grated Parmigiano Reggiano to build flavor and texture. Repeat these layers, like stacking a decadent savory cake, until you’ve used up your ingredients and created a tall, beautiful lasagna cake.
Step 4: Bake and Finish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the assembled lasagna cake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you see a golden, bubbly top and the cheeses melt into a beautiful crust. Once out of the oven, a quick drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh Italian parsley will add a finishing touch of freshness and shine that makes the dish irresistible.
Step 5: Serve Slices with Care
Letting the lasagna cake rest for about 10 minutes before slicing is key. This resting time lets all the layers settle and meld together, ensuring that each slice holds its shape like a true cake. The combination of tender pasta, rich sauces, and creamy cheeses means every bite is a perfect balance of textures and flavors—comfort food elevated to a stunning centerpiece.
How to Serve Lasagna Cake with Bolognese, Mornay, and Ricotta Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your lasagna cake with a scattering of finely chopped Italian parsley not only adds a pop of green color but also introduces a fresh, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness. A light drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving boosts flavor and adds a subtle fruity aroma, making each slice shine on the plate.
Side Dishes
This dish is indulgent, so pairing it with crisp, simple sides works beautifully. Consider a fresh mixed green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables to add contrast. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette can be fantastic for soaking up any extra sauce, making sure no bit of that luscious Bolognese goes to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow your guests, serve the lasagna cake in individual mini springform pans or ramekins for personal portions that look elegant and festive. Alternatively, use a fluted ring mold to achieve perfect round, towering slices. Garnish each serving with a little extra sprinkle of Parmigiano and some parsley for a bistro-style presentation that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, the lasagna cake can be tightly covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled allows the flavors to mingle even more, and the texture firms up nicely, making leftover slices easy to reheat without falling apart.
Freezing
This recipe also freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep or saving for a busy day. Wrap the cooled baked lasagna cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your lasagna cake in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered loosely with foil, for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. For a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, to maintain the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pasta sheets instead of fresh?
Absolutely! While fresh pasta gives a tender, delicate bite, good-quality dried pasta sheets will work fine. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly and ensure they are softened enough before assembling your layers.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the meat in the Bolognese with finely chopped mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat alternative for a wonderful vegetarian version that keeps all the hearty, savory goodness intact.
How can I make the Bolognese sauce ahead of time?
You can prepare the Bolognese sauce a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors deepen. Just bring it to room temperature before assembling your lasagna cake.
What’s the secret to cutting perfect slices?
Let the lasagna cake rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. Use a sharp, serrated knife and wipe the blade between cuts to keep slices neat and clean.
Can I substitute the Mornay sauce with a different cheese sauce?
While the Mornay sauce adds classic richness, you can substitute it with a béchamel sauce or a simple white sauce with your favorite melting cheese. Just keep the consistency creamy but not too runny to hold the layers well.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly something magical about the Lasagna Cake with Bolognese, Mornay, and Ricotta Recipe; it elevates every ingredient into a harmonious whole with layers of flavor and texture that simply delight the senses. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or indulging in a cozy night in, this dish will become a beloved favorite that feels both comforting and impressive. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can come together to create such a stunning feast!
