Pesto Layered Lasagna

Indulge in the rich layers of our Pesto Layered Lasagna, a perfect blend of creamy béchamel pesto sauce, tangy cheeses, and tender noodles. This dish is a delightful twist on the traditional lasagna, incorporating the fresh zest of basil pesto into each bite. Ideal for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this lasagna promises to be a crowd-pleaser!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 65 minutes
Total Time: 85 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories per Serving: 650 kcal

Ingredients:

For the Béchamel Pesto Sauce:

• 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 Tablespoons flour
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ½ cups basil pesto

For the Cheese Mixture:

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• ⅓ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• ½ Tablespoon dried basil (or 2 Tablespoons fresh, chopped)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Lasagna:

• 5 lasagna noodles (approximately 1/3 box)
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 6 Tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:

1. Prepare the Noodles: Cook the noodles in a large pot of water as per package directions until al dente, drain and toss with olive oil. Set aside.
2. Make the Pesto Béchamel Sauce: In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat, add flour and stir to combine. Cook for 30-60 seconds. Whisk in milk, salt, and pepper, and simmer until slightly thickened, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in pesto, and adjust seasoning.
3. Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine all cheese mixture ingredients and adjust seasoning.
4. Assembly: Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread ½ cup pesto sauce in a 9×9 baking dish. Arrange halved noodles over sauce, top with 1 cup cheese mixture, 1 cup mozzarella, and 2 tablespoons Parmesan. Repeat layering, ending with a layer of noodles topped with the remaining pesto sauce and cheeses.
5. Bake: Cover and bake for 50 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is lightly browned.

Conclusion: Savor the layers of flavor in this Pesto Layered Lasagna, where every forkful offers a harmonious blend of herbs, cheeses, and pasta. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a special occasion, this lasagna will bring smiles to your dining table. Enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of this gourmet creation!

Would you like any additional tips or variations for this recipe to add to your blog post?