Have you ever found yourself flipping through holiday recipe books, yearning for that show-stopping meal to bring everyone together? Enter Christmas Eve Lasagna: a festive twist on classic Lasagna Bolognese that not only dazzles on the dinner table but also fills the heart with warmth. This dish is a glorious layering of rich, homemade bolognese sauce and creamy basil pesto ricotta, making it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast. Not only does it serve a crowd of 12-15 people, but it can also be made in advance, freeing you to enjoy the holiday magic without the last-minute kitchen rush. With a little patience and love, you’ll create a comfort-rich lasagna that will have your loved ones raving. Are you ready to dive into the most delightful holiday dish of the season?
Why is this lasagna a must-try?
Festive Touch: This Christmas Eve Lasagna is not just a meal; it’s a celebration on a plate! With its vibrant layers of red and green, it adds a stunning visual element to your holiday table.
Rich Flavor: The blend of hearty bolognese and smooth, herb-infused pesto ricotta creates a symphony of taste. Each bite is a delightful mix of savory and fresh that will keep your guests coming back for more.
Feeding a Crowd: Perfectly crafted to serve 12-15 happy diners, this dish takes the stress out of feeding family and friends during the festive season. No need for multiple entrees!
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep this beauty in advance! Assemble and refrigerate it up to three days ahead or freeze it for later. Easy meal prep allows you to soak up the holiday spirit.
Versatile: Feel free to switch up the proteins or add veggies to the ricotta layer for customized satisfaction. If you adore comforting dishes, check out my Sausage Potato Soup or the delightful Cinnamon Roll Cookies for more festive inspiration!
Christmas Eve Lasagna Ingredients
• Get ready to create your festive masterpiece!
For the Bolognese Sauce
- Ground Beef & Pork – This combination creates a rich, meaty flavor; you can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- San Marzano Tomatoes – Known for their sweetness and richness, perfect as a base; if unavailable, crushed tomatoes work well too.
- Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing aromatics, providing depth of flavor.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and complexity; finely chop for even cooking.
- Carrot – Introduces natural sweetness; grate for better incorporation.
- Celery – Contributes a fresh, mild bite; ensure it’s finely diced.
- Garlic – Enhances flavor significantly; use fresh for the best taste.
For the Pesto Ricotta Layer
- Ricotta Cheese – Provides creamy texture and helps bind layers; cottage cheese can be used for a lower-fat alternative.
- Basil Pesto – Offers aromatic, fresh flavor perfect for this lasagna; fresh spinach can substitute for a milder taste.
- Eggs – Binds the ricotta mixture together; for a vegan option, consider flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
- Parmesan Cheese – Delivers an additional savory kick; Grana Padano makes a great, budget-friendly substitute.
For the Lasagna Structure
- Lasagna Noodles – The essential base for this dish; use DeLallo No-Boil Lasagna for convenience or conventional noodles that need boiling.
Expert Note: This Christmas Eve Lasagna is all about flavor and heart, and it’s designed to impress!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Eve Lasagna
Step 1: Prepare the Bolognese Sauce
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté 1 diced onion, 1 grated carrot, and 1 diced celery stalk until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add 1 pound each of ground beef and pork, browning them until cooked through, about 10 minutes. Next, stir in two cans of San Marzano tomatoes, bring to a simmer, and let it cook on low for at least 90 minutes for deep, rich flavors.
Step 2: Make the Pesto Ricotta Layer
While the bolognese simmers, in a bowl, combine 15 ounces of ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of basil pesto, and 1 egg. Mix until smooth and creamy, then add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and season generously with salt and pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well incorporated and set aside for easy layering in your Christmas Eve Lasagna.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of bolognese sauce at the bottom. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, then alternate with a layer of bolognese and a layer of pesto ricotta, spreading evenly. Repeat these layers, continuing until you fill the dish, aiming for at least 4 layers in total. Finish with a generous topping of bolognese and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Step 4: Rest and Refrigerate
Once assembled, cover the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for a minimum of 12 hours; this resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes slicing easier when it’s time to serve your Christmas Eve Lasagna.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) about 30 minutes before baking. Once heated, uncover the lasagna and place it in the oven, baking for 50 minutes. After that, remove the cover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is bubbling and golden brown, ensuring a delightful finish to your festive masterpiece.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Eve Lasagna
Fridge: Keep your assembled Christmas Eve Lasagna covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This make-ahead option enhances the flavors immensely.
Freezer: Freeze your unbaked lasagna for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until heated through.
Airtight Storage: If you have leftover baked lasagna, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days for ideal freshness.
What to Serve with Christmas Eve Lasagna
Create the ultimate holiday feast that will leave your family and friends raving about your culinary skills!
- Crusty Garlic Bread: The warm, toasty flavors of garlic bread complement the rich layers of lasagna, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing, crisp salad adds brightness to your plate, balancing the hearty richness of the lasagna beautifully.
- Sautéed Vegetables: Caramelized vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring vibrant color and nutrients, enhancing your festive table.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness and nutty flavor contrast with the melty richness of the lasagna, making each bite extraordinary.
- Classic Tiramisu: Finish your meal with this coffee-flavored dessert for a sweet ending that lingers on the palate.
- Italian Red Wine: A bold Chianti pairs splendidly with the layers of flavor in your lasagna, enhancing the dining experience.
Offering a well-composed meal ensures a delightful culinary experience that warms the heart and fills the stomach.
Expert Tips for Christmas Eve Lasagna
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Resting Time: Allow the lasagna to rest overnight for the best flavor. This helps the layers meld and makes cutting easier.
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Layering Technique: Use a spatula to help slice through the layers when serving, ensuring clean edges and distinct layers in your Christmas Eve Lasagna.
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Avoiding Sticky Noodles: If using traditional lasagna noodles, make sure to coat them well with sauce during assembly to prevent sticking together.
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Cooking Time: Watch closely during the last 10 minutes of baking to achieve that perfect bubbling and golden brown top; each oven is unique!
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Portion Control: Consider serving with a side salad or garlic bread to balance out portions, allowing everyone to enjoy a larger helping of lasagna without overindulging.
Christmas Eve Lasagna Variations & Substitutions
Don’t hesitate to get creative with your Christmas Eve Lasagna; the holidays are all about personal touches!
- Lean Alternatives: Swap ground beef and pork for ground turkey or chicken to lighten the dish.
- Vegetarian Twist: For a meat-free version, use lentils or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and spinach for the bolognese.
- Herb Variations: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or oregano to the ricotta layer for an extra flavor boost.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to your bolognese for a touch of heat that will warm your guests’ hearts.
- Add Extra Veggies: Layer in roasted zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and delicious texture.
- Noodle Substitution: Use zucchini noodles for a gluten-free, low-carb alternative that still gives you all those wonderful lasagna layers.
- Cheese Swap: Try different cheeses like goat cheese or feta in the ricotta layer for a unique twist!
- Make it Creamy: Incorporate a little heavy cream or sour cream into the ricotta for an incredibly rich and creamy texture.
As you explore these variations, you might also find inspiration in other dishes, such as the comforting Sausage Potato Soup or the delightful Cinnamon Roll Cookies. Let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Eve Lasagna layers are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their holiday meal prep! You can assemble the entire lasagna up to 3 days in advance; just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil in the refrigerator. This resting period allows the flavors to deepen, resulting in a dish that’s just as delicious when baked later. For even longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked lasagna; simply remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), bake it uncovered for 50 minutes, and enjoy the delighted faces of your family gathered around the table with minimal effort on your part!
Christmas Eve Lasagna Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best tomatoes for the bolognese sauce?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for San Marzano tomatoes as they bring a rich sweetness to the sauce. Look for ones that are firm and have no dark spots. If they’re not available, crushed tomatoes are a good alternative.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of my Christmas Eve Lasagna?
Very! You can store any leftover baked lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to keep it fresh. Serve it warm, and it will taste just as delightful!
Can I freeze my Christmas Eve Lasagna, and what’s the process?
Certainly! You can freeze the unbaked lasagna for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then follow the baking instructions.
What if my noodles get stuck together during assembly?
No worries! If you’re using traditional lasagna noodles, make sure to coat each layer with sauce as you assemble. This prevents them from sticking together. If they do get clumped, gently separate them with a spatula before adding your bolognese or ricotta.
Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Absolutely! To make a gluten-free version, simply swap out regular lasagna noodles for gluten-free ones. They’re widely available now and will work perfectly in this Christmas Eve Lasagna without compromising flavor or texture.
What do I do if my bolognese sauce seems too watery?
If your bolognese sauce turns out watery after simmering, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will help it thicken. Stir frequently to avoid sticking, and consider adding a little tomato paste for extra richness if needed!
Festive Christmas Eve Lasagna that Feeds a Crowd
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, grated carrot, and diced celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add ground beef and pork; browning them until cooked through, about 10 minutes. Stir in San Marzano tomatoes, bring to a simmer, and cook on low for at least 90 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, basil pesto, and egg. Mix until smooth, then add Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of bolognese sauce at the bottom. Layer lasagna noodles, alternating with bolognese and pesto ricotta, repeating until the dish is filled with at least 4 layers. Finish with bolognese and Parmesan on top.
- Cover the lasagna tightly and refrigerate for a minimum of 12 hours.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Uncover the lasagna and bake for 50 minutes. Remove cover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until top is bubbling and golden brown.
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