Beef Short Rib Ragu Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce

This Beef Short Rib Ragu Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce is the ultimate comfort dish that transforms your dinner table into a feast. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this lasagna showcases rich and flavorful beef short rib ragu layered between tender sheets of pasta. Topped with a creamy béchamel sauce and gooey mozzarella, it’s a heartwarming meal that will satisfy everyone’s cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: This dish combines rich ragu with layers of pasta, making it perfect for a filling dinner.
• Flavor-Packed: The slow-cooked beef short ribs create a deep and savory flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the béchamel sauce.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this lasagna impresses every time.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it ahead of time and simply bake when you’re ready to serve; it tastes even better the next day!
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins to suit your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Beef Short Rib Ragu Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Dutch oven
• Large pot
• Whisk
• Baking dish
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Dutch oven: Ideal for slow-cooking the beef short ribs, helping to develop deep flavors.
• Large pot: Perfect for boiling lasagna noodles evenly without overcrowding.
• Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth béchamel sauce without lumps.

Ingredients

This lasagna is comfort food at its absolute best. Rich, slow-cooked beef short rib ragu layered with tender lasagna noodles, creamy béchamel sauce, and gooey mozzarella. It’s hearty, indulgent, and worth every minute.

For the Ragu

• 3 lbs beef short ribs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 large onion (diced)
• 2 celery stalks (diced)
• 2 carrots (diced)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1½ tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ cup red grape juice
• 2 cups beef broth or bone broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves

For the Béchamel Sauce

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter
• 8 oz Parmigiano Reggiano (grated)
• ⅔ cup all-purpose flour or 1:1 gluten-free flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• ½ tsp fine sea salt

For Assembly

• 1 box lasagna sheets (regular or gluten-free)
• 1 to 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Beef Short Rib Ragu Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Ragu

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
1. Add diced onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables soften.
2. Season with kosher salt and black pepper; stir in tomato paste.
3. Add the beef short ribs and brown on all sides.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes, red grape juice, beef broth, dried thyme, and bay leaves; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for about 6 hours until meat is tender.

Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce

While the ragu simmers:
1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until foamy.
2. Gradually whisk in flour; cook for about 2 minutes until golden.
3. Slowly whisk in whole milk; continue whisking until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmigiano Reggiano and sea salt.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna

After preparing both components:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a layer of ragu on the bottom of your baking dish.
3. Layer lasagna sheets over the ragu; spread some béchamel sauce on top.
4. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with béchamel on top.
5. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the top.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

1. Cover loosely with aluminum foil; bake for 30 minutes.
2. Remove foil; bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
3. Allow to cool slightly before slicing into squares; serve warm.

Enjoy your comforting Beef Short Rib Ragu Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce!

How to Serve Beef Short Rib Ragu Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce

Serving Beef Short Rib Ragu Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce is a delightful experience. This dish not only looks stunning but also tastes incredible, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the lasagna.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, and croutons add crunch and flavor to your meal.

Accompany with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover béchamel sauce on your plate.
• Crusty Italian Bread: A loaf of fresh Italian bread served warm enhances the overall dining experience.

Add a Side of Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious contrast to the hearty lasagna.
• Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus with olive oil and salt adds a touch of sophistication to your meal.

How to Perfect Beef Short Rib Ragu Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce

To make your Beef Short Rib Ragu Lasagna even more delicious, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance the flavors and texture of your dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality beef, fresh vegetables, and real cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Slow Cook the Ragu: Allowing the ragu to simmer for several hours deepens its flavors and tenderizes the meat.
• Layer Wisely: Start with béchamel sauce at the bottom, followed by noodles and ragu for even cooking throughout.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the lasagna rest for 15-20 minutes after baking helps it set and makes slicing easier.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try mixing different cheeses in your béchamel for added depth of flavor.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Garnishing your lasagna with fresh basil or parsley before serving enhances both appearance and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Short Rib Ragu Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce

Complementing your beef short rib ragu lasagna with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort and balance against the rich flavors of lasagna.
2. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini brings freshness and color to your table.
3. Caprese Salad: A classic Italian salad made of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil is refreshing alongside hearty lasagna.
4. Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach seasoned with garlic offers a healthy green option that complements the dish well.
5. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, marinated vegetables, and cheeses creates an inviting starter before enjoying the main course.
6. Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes adds sweetness and earthiness to the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Beef Short Rib Ragu Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce can be a delightful experience, but some common pitfalls can affect the final result.

• Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the beef can lead to a less flavorful ragu. Always sear the meat first to enhance its taste.
• Overcooking the Noodles: Cooking lasagna sheets too long makes them mushy. Boil them just until al dente for the perfect texture.
• Ignoring Layering Technique: Incorrect layering leads to uneven cooking. Start with ragu, then noodles, béchamel, and repeat for optimal balance.
• Rushing the Bechamel: Not giving enough time to thicken results in a runny sauce. Stir continuously over low heat until it reaches a creamy consistency.
• Neglecting to Season: Failing to properly season each component can dull flavors. Season your ragu and béchamel at every stage for depth.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooled lasagna in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Beef Short Rib Ragu Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce

• Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then place them into a freezer-safe container.
• The lasagna can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Beef Short Rib Ragu Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil for 20-30 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Beef Short Rib Ragu Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce?

Beef Short Rib Ragu Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce is a rich and hearty dish featuring layers of slow-cooked beef ragu and creamy béchamel sauce between pasta sheets.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute the beef short ribs with chicken or turkey for a lighter version while still maintaining great flavor.

How long does it take to make this lasagna?

The total time is approximately 420 minutes, including prep and slow cooking time. The result is well worth the wait!

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it the day before and refrigerate it overnight before baking, making dinner preparation easier.

Conclusion

This Beef Short Rib Ragu Lasagna with Béchamel Sauce offers comfort food at its best. Its layers of rich flavors and creamy textures make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or using different cheeses for your unique twist!