Name: Layered Beef, Beef Ham & Melted Cheese Lasagna
Prep time: 1 h 30 min
Cook time: 2 h 20 min
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Yield: 10 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1.5 pounds (680g) ground beef, 80/20 lean; 1 large yellow onion, finely diced; 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely diced; 2 celery stalks, finely diced; 4-5 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups (480ml) beef broth, low sodium (non-alcoholic red wine alternative); 1 (28 ounce / 794g) can crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 2 bay leaves; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter; 6 tablespoons (45g) all-purpose flour; 4 cups (960ml) whole milk, warmed; 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon white pepper; 100g grated Emmental cheese (for Mornay sauce); 12-15 sheets lasagna noodles (approx. 10-12 oz / 280-340g); 1 (15 ounce / 425g) container whole milk ricotta cheese, well-drained; 1 cup (100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping; 2 cups (220g) low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded, plus extra for topping; 8 ounces (225g) thinly sliced deli beef ham; 40g grated Emmental cheese (for topping); Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese is not just a dish; it’s a magnificent culinary journey, a layered symphony of flavors and textures that promises to captivate your senses from the very first forkful. There’s a profound satisfaction in preparing and enjoying a homemade lasagna, especially one that combines the hearty richness of beef with the savory, delicate notes of ham, all bound together by a luxurious blend of cheeses.

Tracing its origins back to ancient Roman times, lasagna has gracefully evolved through centuries, becoming one of Italy’s most celebrated and comforting contributions to global cuisine. It represents togetherness, celebration, and the simple joy of sharing a truly special meal. I find that its enduring popularity stems from its incredible versatility and the sheer comfort it offers, making it a timeless centerpiece for family dinners and festive gatherings alike.

What truly sets this particular rendition apart is the exquisite combination of robust beef and the delightful, salty counterpoint of ham, creating an unparalleled depth of flavor. Each tender sheet of pasta, nestled between generous layers of slow-cooked meat sauce and a molten trio of creamy cheeses, ensures a truly indulgent experience. This Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese isn’t just food; it’s a testament to the art of comfort cooking, a dish designed to nourish both body and soul, leaving everyone at the table utterly satisfied and planning their next bite.

Ingredients:

For the Rich Beef and Ham Bolognese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin preferred
- 1.5 pounds (about 680g) ground beef, 80/20 lean to fat ratio for best flavor
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) dry red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot (optional, but highly recommended for depth)
- 1 (28 ounce / 794g) can crushed tomatoes, good quality San Marzano tomatoes are excellent
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup (240ml) beef broth, low sodium
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: A handful of fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish or late addition to the sauce
For the Creamy Béchamel Sauce:
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter
- 6 tablespoons (45g) all-purpose flour
- 4 cups (960ml) whole milk, warmed gently
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper if white isn’t available)
For the Lasagna Assembly (Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese):
- 12-15 sheets lasagna noodles (approximately 10-12 oz / 280-340g) – either no-boil or traditional, depending on your preference and package instructions
- 1 (15 ounce / 425g) container whole milk ricotta cheese, well-drained
- 1 cup (about 100g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for topping
- 2 cups (about 220g) low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded, plus extra for topping
- 8 ounces (225g) thinly sliced deli ham, good quality like Black Forest, honey ham, or smoked ham, cut into smaller pieces or left whole for layering
- Optional: Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Phase 1: Crafting the Rich Beef and Ham Bolognese Sauce

Creating the heart of our Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese begins with a deeply flavorful Bolognese. This sauce is not just about meat; it’s a slow-simmered symphony of vegetables, herbs, and savory goodness that will infuse every bite of your lasagna with incredible taste.

Brown the Ground Beef: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s beautifully browned all over, about 7-10 minutes. This browning step is crucial for developing rich flavor. Once browned, drain off any excess fat from the pot. We want flavor, not grease! Transfer the browned beef to a separate bowl and set aside for a moment.
Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the finely diced onion, carrots, and celery to the same pot. If the pot seems dry, you can add another small drizzle of olive oil. Sauté these vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they soften and the onion becomes translucent, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. This foundational “soffritto” creates the aromatic base for our Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese.
Add the Garlic and Tomato Paste: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Then, add the 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook it for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Cooking the tomato paste briefly helps to deepen its flavor and mellow its acidity.
Deglaze with Red Wine (Optional, but Recommended): Pour in the 1 cup of dry red wine. Increase the heat to medium-high and use your wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. These bits are packed with flavor! Let the wine simmer and reduce by about half, which should take 3-5 minutes. This step adds a fantastic complexity to the Bolognese for your Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese.
Combine and Simmer: Return the browned ground beef to the pot. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, dried oregano, dried basil, and bay leaves. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Season and Slow Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let your Bolognese sauce simmer for at least 1.5 to 2 hours, or even longer if you have the time (up to 3 hours is ideal). The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld and deepen, creating an incredibly rich sauce perfect for your “Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese.” Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add a little more broth or water if it gets too thick. Taste and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper throughout the simmering process.
Final Touches: Before assembling, remove the bay leaves. If using, stir in the fresh chopped parsley. The sauce should be thick, rich, and incredibly aromatic.

Phase 2: Preparing the Velvety Béchamel Sauce

A classic Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese wouldn’t be complete without a luxurious, creamy béchamel sauce. This white sauce provides a beautiful counterpoint to the rich meat sauce and cheese, adding moisture and a delicate flavor that truly elevates the dish.

Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Make sure it’s fully melted but not browned.
Create the Roux: Add the 6 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the melted butter. Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until a smooth paste, known as a roux, forms. It should be light golden in color. This roux is the thickening agent for our béchamel.
Gradually Add Milk: Slowly, and I mean slowly, pour in the warm whole milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. It’s crucial to add the milk a little at a time at first, whisking vigorously to incorporate each addition before adding more. This ensures a perfectly smooth sauce. If the milk is cold, it can cause lumps, so warming it slightly beforehand is a good tip.
Thicken the Sauce: Continue to whisk and cook the sauce over medium heat. It will gradually thicken to a consistency that coats the back of a spoon, usually taking about 8-10 minutes. Don’t rush this process; let it gently come to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, continuing to whisk until it reaches your desired thickness.
Season the Béchamel: Once thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The nutmeg adds a wonderfully subtle warmth that is characteristic of a truly authentic béchamel for “Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese.” Cover the sauce with plastic wrap placed directly on its surface to prevent a skin from forming while you prepare the other components.

Phase 3: Preparing the Lasagna Noodles

The foundation of our Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese layers begins with perfectly prepared noodles. Depending on the type of noodles you choose, the preparation will vary slightly, but the goal is always tender, pliable sheets.

For Traditional Lasagna Noodles: If you are using traditional lasagna noodles that require boiling, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the lasagna noodles a few at a time to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions until al dente (firm to the bite). Overcooking will make them mushy and difficult to handle. Once cooked, immediately drain them and lay them flat on baking sheets lined with parchment paper or wax paper, or spread them out on clean kitchen towels. Drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking, especially if you won’t be assembling immediately.
For No-Boil Lasagna Noodles: If you are using no-boil lasagna noodles, rejoice! Your job is much simpler. These noodles are designed to absorb moisture from the sauces during baking. You can use them directly from the package, though some people like to give them a quick dip in hot water for a minute to make them more pliable, but this is optional. Follow the specific instructions on your package for the best results when building your “Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese.”

Phase 4: Expertly Assembling Your Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese

This is where all our hard work comes together! Assembling the Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese is a creative process of layering flavors and textures. Have all your ingredients ready and within reach before you begin.

Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
First Sauce Layer: Spread a thin layer of the Bolognese meat sauce (about 1/2 cup) evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This prevents the first layer of noodles from sticking and ensures every bite is flavorful from the start of your “Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese.”
First Noodle Layer: Arrange a single layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Depending on your noodles and dish, you might need to overlap them slightly or break some to fit.
Ricotta Layer: In a medium bowl, gently stir together the drained ricotta cheese with 1/2 cup of the Parmesan cheese. Season lightly with a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread about half of this ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles.
Meat and Ham Layer: Spoon about a third of the remaining Bolognese meat sauce over the ricotta layer. Then, arrange about half of the thin slices of deli ham over the meat sauce. The ham adds a wonderful savory and slightly smoky note to this specific “Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese” recipe.
Cheese Layer: Sprinkle about 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ham and meat sauce.
Second Noodle Layer: Place another layer of lasagna noodles on top of the cheese.
Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process:
- Spread the remaining half of the ricotta mixture.
- Spoon another third of the Bolognese meat sauce.
- Arrange the remaining half of the deli ham.
- Sprinkle another 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Final Noodle and Sauce Layer: Add a third layer of lasagna noodles.
The Grand Finale Layer: Spoon the remaining Bolognese meat sauce evenly over the top layer of noodles. This will ensure the final noodles cook beautifully.
Top with Cheese: Generously sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and extra shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. This will create a golden, bubbling crust that is truly irresistible.

Phase 5: Baking Your Magnificent Lasagna

The moment of truth! Baking is where all the wonderful flavors of our Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese meld together, creating a comforting and satisfying dish.

Cover and Bake (Initial): Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps to steam the noodles and cook the lasagna evenly without drying out the top. Place the covered lasagna on a baking sheet (to catch any potential overflow) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Uncover and Brown: Remove the foil. At this point, the noodles should be tender, and the sauce should be bubbly. Continue to bake, uncovered, for another 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is beautifully melted, golden brown, and bubbling enthusiastically. For an extra golden-brown crust, you can briefly put it under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching it very carefully to prevent burning.
Rest Before Serving: This step is critical for a perfectly structured lasagna! Once out of the oven, let your “Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese” rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the layers to set, preventing a runny, falling-apart mess. The residual heat will continue to cook it slightly, and the sauces will thicken up, making for cleaner, more impressive slices.
Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, and serve warm. Each slice will reveal magnificent layers of rich beef Bolognese, savory ham, creamy béchamel, and melted cheeses, making for a truly memorable meal.

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve journeyed through the creation of what I genuinely believe is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration, a centerpiece, and a testament to the comforting power of home-cooked food. This isn’t just any old pasta bake; it’s a culinary experience designed to impress, satisfy, and leave everyone at your table utterly delighted. The magic truly lies in the harmonious blend of robust ground beef, the delicate yet distinct saltiness of the ham, and the dreamy, creamy layers of cheese, all nestled between perfectly al dente lasagna noodles and enveloped in a rich, savory tomato sauce. It’s hearty without being heavy, indulgent yet perfectly balanced, and utterly unforgettable.

Why is this specific Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese a must-try for your kitchen? Because it elevates a beloved classic to new heights. The addition of ham introduces an incredible depth of flavor that complements the beef beautifully, adding a subtle smoky undertone and an extra layer of savory complexity that will have everyone asking for your secret. The blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates a luxurious, gooey texture that melts in your mouth with every bite, ensuring a perfect ratio of dairy to meat and pasta. It’s a dish that promises pure comfort and delivers an exquisite taste that lingers long after the last forkful. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, hosting a lively gathering, or simply looking to treat yourself to something truly special, this lasagna recipe is designed to be your culinary triumph.

Elevate Your Meal: Inspired Serving Suggestions and Creative Variations

Now that you’ve created this masterpiece, let’s talk about how to make it an even more spectacular event. For serving, I highly recommend pairing your incredible Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese with a simple, crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness and acidity of the salad will cut through the richness of the lasagna beautifully, creating a perfect balance on your palate. A crusty loaf of garlic bread, warm from the oven, is also an absolute must – perfect for soaking up any stray bits of sauce or cheese. If you’re feeling a little fancy, a side of roasted asparagus or tender-stem broccoli adds a vibrant touch of green and extra nutrients. And for the adults, a medium-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti or a Merlot, would be a delightful companion, complementing the savory flavors of the meat and cheese.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! This recipe is also wonderfully versatile, allowing for creative variations to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Feel free to experiment with different types of ham – a delicate prosciutto layered in can add a gourmet touch, or a more robust smoked ham could bring even greater depth. For the meat, you could try a blend of ground beef and Italian sausage for a spicier kick, or even incorporate some ground pork. Want to sneak in more vegetables? Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or finely diced bell peppers can be added to the meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition. You could also play with the cheese blend; a touch of smoked provolone, a creamy fontina, or even some crumbled goat cheese could introduce exciting new dimensions. A pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce is always a welcome addition for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Remember, cooking is an art, and this recipe is a fantastic canvas!

Your Culinary Journey Starts Now! Share Your Experience!

My dearest readers, I genuinely hope you feel inspired to roll up your sleeves and dive into preparing this incredible dish. Don’t just take my word for its deliciousness; experience the joy of creating it for yourself. Imagine the delightful aroma filling your home as it bakes, the anticipation building, and the sheer satisfaction of bringing such a magnificent meal to your table. Making this Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese is an act of love, for yourself and for those you share it with, and it’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories around the dinner table.

I absolutely implore you to try this recipe. Gather your ingredients, put on your favorite cooking playlist, and enjoy the process. It truly is a rewarding experience from start to finish. And when you do, please, please come back and share your culinary adventure with me! I’m genuinely eager to hear about your experience. How did it turn out? What serving suggestions did you try? Did you come up with any clever variations of your own? Your stories, your photos, and your feedback mean the world to me and inspire others in our cooking community. Let’s celebrate the joy of home cooking together. Happy cooking, everyone! I can’t wait to hear how this extraordinary Lasagna With Beef Ham And Cheese becomes a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.