Lasagna Stuffed Garlic Bread

Introduction

Lasagna Stuffed Garlic Bread is a dish that brings comfort and indulgence to the dinner table. Combining the cheesy goodness of lasagna with the crispy allure of garlic bread, this recipe has quickly become a family favorite in my home. My kids adore it, and the rich, savory flavors have even won over some picky eaters. The combination of a hearty meat sauce, a creamy béchamel, and gooey cheese creates an irresistible fusion that pairs perfectly with the garlic bread. Every bite is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, making it a perfect centerpiece for gatherings or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Bread:

• 2 Furlani garlic bread loaves
• 180g grated cheddar cheese
• 180g grated mozzarella cheese
• 3 large fresh lasagna sheets, blanched and cut into 2-inch strips
• Chopped parsley or basil for garnish

For the Meat Sauce:

• 454g ground sausage
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 500ml passata

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 cups warmed milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 5 oz baby spinach, chopped

Instructions

1. Make the Meat Sauce:
   • In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground sausage until browned. Remove from heat and let it drain in a strainer to remove excess grease.
   • In the same skillet, add diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until tender.
   • Stir in the tomato paste and mix well, then add the passata. Bring to a simmer and fold in the sausage. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Set aside.
2. Make the Béchamel Sauce:
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour to form a paste and cook for about a minute.
   • Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, stirring constantly until smooth. Incorporate the Dijon mustard and freshly ground black pepper. Finally, add the chopped spinach and mix until wilted. Turn off the heat and set aside.
3. Prebake the Garlic Bread:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the top and bottom halves of the garlic bread loaves in a baking dish to form two tight V-shapes.
   • Sprinkle a layer of cheddar and mozzarella cheese in the bottom of the V’s. Bake in the oven for about 6 minutes to start the melting process.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
   • Layer the blanched lasagna noodles over the melted cheese. Add a generous layer of the meat sauce, followed by another layer of lasagna noodles. Pour on the béchamel sauce, and sprinkle with more cheese. Add another layer of noodles and top with the remaining meat sauce, finishing with the rest of the cheese.
5. Bake the Lasagna:
   • Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
   • Once out of the oven, let the garlic bread lasagna rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and serve hot. A little leftover béchamel sauce on the side never hurts!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve hot, straight from the oven.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil.
• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Drizzle with extra olive oil or serve with additional béchamel sauce.
• Enjoy with a glass of red wine for an adult touch.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality cheeses can elevate the flavor of this dish.
2. Make Ahead: Prepare the meat sauce and béchamel sauce a day in advance to save time.
3. Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Fontina or Parmesan for varied flavor.
4. Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for an extra kick.
5. Storage: If you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a plant-based alternative.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add garlic butter and extra cheese on top of the garlic bread before baking.
• Spicy Version: Incorporate diced jalapeños or hot sausage into the meat sauce for some heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta sheets and bread to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Different Sauces: Experiment with Alfredo sauce in place of béchamel for a creamier texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Salads: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette pairs well to balance the richness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or asparagus can add freshness and crunch.
• Wine Pairing: A light red wine like Pinot Noir complements the savory flavors.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Assemble the dish but do not bake. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Storage: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use different types of meat?
   • Yes, ground beef or turkey work well in place of sausage.
2. What can I substitute for the béchamel sauce?
   • You can use a store-bought cheese sauce or skip it entirely for a lighter version.
3. How do I know when the lasagna is done?
   • The cheese should be melted and bubbly, with a golden brown color on top.
4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare it up to the baking stage and refrigerate it for up to a day.
5. Is this dish suitable for freezing?
   • Yes, it freezes well before baking.
6. What type of bread can I use?
   • You can use any garlic bread, but Furlani loaves offer a great texture.
7. Can I add vegetables to the meat sauce?
   • Absolutely! Zucchini or mushrooms can enhance the nutrition and flavor.
8. What if I don’t have passata?
   • You can use crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce instead.
9. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
   • Yes, whole wheat lasagna noodles can add more fiber to the dish.
10. How should I store leftovers?
    • Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Conclusion

Lasagna Stuffed Garlic Bread is a delightful dish that takes comfort food to a whole new level. Its combination of cheesy, savory, and garlicky flavors is sure to impress everyone at your dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply indulging in a cozy night in, this recipe promises satisfaction in every bite. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of creating this scrumptious meal!

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