Savory Herb-Infused Beef and Mushroom Bolognese Bake

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Herb-Infused Beef and Mushroom Bolognese Bake, where tender beef meets earthy mushrooms in a savory sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, featuring layers of pasta and a herbaceous twist that elevates traditional Bolognese to a new level.

The infusion of fresh herbs, like basil and thyme, complements the robust meatiness of the ground beef while adding a fragrant aroma. Topped with creamy béchamel and melted cheese, this bake offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that everyone will love.

Savory Herb-Infused Beef and Mushroom Bolognese Bake

Serves: 6-8 Prep Time: 30 minutes Cooking Time: 60 minutes 60 minutes

Nutrition facts: 520 calories 25g fat

Rating: 5.0/5

( 1 voted )

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Ingredients

INGREDIENTS

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 8 ounces mushrooms, chopped
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 ounces lasagna noodles, cooked
• 2 cups béchamel sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. In a large baking dish, spread a layer of the beef and mushroom mixture on the bottom.
8. Layer cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce, then repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with béchamel on top.
9. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the final layer.
10. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
11. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Tip: If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

For a lighter option, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked pasta can be used to cut down on prep time.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully in the oven. For a crispy top, broil for a few minutes before serving. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it’s properly sealed to avoid freezer burn!