Christmas Eve Lasagna (Festive Lasagna Bolognese!)

Say hello to the most festive lasagna you’ll ever meet: Christmas Eve Lasagna! A twist on classic lasagna bolognese, this dish is layered with rich, hearty homemade bolognese sauce and creamy, herbaceous basil pesto ricotta—creating a beautiful contrast of flavors. With vibrant red and green layers, it’s not just a meal but a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table.

Whether you’re gathering with family or hosting friends, this lasagna is bound to become a cherished part of your Christmas Eve traditions. It’s equal parts delicious and show-stopping—perfect for making memories this holiday season. I have a feeling you’ll love it just as much as my family does. Happy cooking! ♡

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Layers: The rich bolognese combined with creamy ricotta creates an irresistible flavor experience.
• Festive Appeal: With its vibrant colors, the Christmas Eve Lasagna makes for an eye-catching holiday centerpiece.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance to save time on busy holiday days; simply bake when ready!
• Hearty Servings: Perfectly serves 12-15 people, making it ideal for gatherings and celebrations.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily modify ingredients to suit your family’s preferences while keeping the essence intact.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Christmas Eve Lasagna, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Heavy-bottomed pot (at least 4-quart capacity)
• Mixing bowls
• Nonstick cooking spray
• 9×13 baking pan
• Large rimmed baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Saves time by quickly chopping vegetables and mixing ingredients for your sauces.
• Heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even cooking of sauces and prevents burning, ideal for slow-simmering bolognese.
• Mixing bowls: Perfect for combining ingredients without mess, helping you keep everything organized.

Ingredients

• nonstick cooking spray
• one 13.2-ounce box DeLallo No-Boil Lasagna
• Best-Ever Bolognese (below)
• basil pesto ricotta (below)
• 24 ounces shredded low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella cheese (about 6 cups)
• 12 ounces Italian cheese blend, such as asiago, parmesan, etc. (about 3 cups)
• 2 large carrots, roughly chopped
• 1 stalk celery, roughly chopped
• 1 large yellow onion, roughly chopped
• 4 ounces turkey strips, roughly chopped (see Recipe Notes)
• 6 cloves garlic
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• one 6-ounce can tomato paste
• 1 cup medium-bodied apple vinegar, such as Chianti
• 3-4 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 10-12 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• optional: 1 parmesan rind
• one 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated parmesan
• kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese, whole milk or part-skim as desired
• one 6.3-ounce jar DeLallo Simply Basil Pesto
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup grated parmesan

How to Make Christmas Eve Lasagna (Festive Lasagna Bolognese!)

Step 1: Prepare the Soffritto

1. Add the roughly chopped carrot, celery, and onion to the bowl of a food processor.
2. Pulse just until the mixture is broken down into fine pieces without puréeing it.
3. Transfer to a medium bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Turkey Mixture

1. Add the turkey strips and garlic to the food processor used for the soffritto.
2. Pulse until finely broken down; set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pestata

1. Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
2. Once hot, add the pestata mixture from Step 1 and cook for 4–5 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Soffritto with Pestata

1. Add the soffritto mixture from Step 1 into the pot.
2. Season with salt and stir to combine.
3. Cook for about 15–20 minutes until browned.

Step 5: Brown the Meat

1. Season ground beef generously with salt.
2. Add meat to center of pot; do not touch for 2–3 minutes to allow browning.
3. Turn meat over and brown second side; break apart into fine crumbles once browned completely.

Step 6: Incorporate Tomato Paste

1. Stir in tomato paste; cook for another 2–3 minutes.

Step 7: Add Vinegar

1. Increase heat to medium-high; pour in apple vinegar.
2. Stir constantly while scraping up any browned bits at bottom of pot for about 4–5 minutes until absorbed.

Step 8: Add Herbs & Tomatoes

1. Tie herbs together with twine or finely chop them; add along with bay leaves and optional cheese rind.
2. Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth/water; stir well.

Step 9: Simmer the Sauce

1. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer for about 90 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 10: Finish Bolognese Sauce

1. Stir in heavy cream and grated parmesan; adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 11: Prepare Basil Pesto Ricotta

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with basil pesto and seasonings; mix well.

Step 12: Assemble Lasagna

1. Spray baking pan with nonstick cooking spray; ladle bolognese sauce into bottom layer.
2. Layer no-boil lasagna noodles followed by half of basil pesto ricotta mixed evenly on top.
3. Continue layering until all ingredients are used up ending with cheese on top.

Step 13: Chill Before Baking

1. Cover assembled lasagna with foil sprayed with nonstick spray; refrigerate overnight or at least for several hours.

Step 14: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 375°F; place lasagna on a rimmed baking sheet before transferring into oven.
2. Bake covered for about an hour; remove foil last ten minutes to brown top layer.

Step 15: Rest & Serve

1. Allow lasagna to rest for about ten minutes after removing from oven before slicing into squares.

Enjoy your delightful Christmas Eve Lasagna!

How to Serve Christmas Eve Lasagna (Festive Lasagna Bolognese!)

Serving Christmas Eve Lasagna is an opportunity to create a delightful and memorable dining experience. This festive dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes, elevating the meal for your holiday gatherings.

Classic Garlic Bread

• item Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for a delicious contrast to the savory lasagna.

Fresh Green Salad

• item A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the lasagna.

Roasted Vegetables

• item Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and flavor to your table while providing a nutritious complement.

Grated Parmesan Cheese

• item Offer freshly grated parmesan cheese on the side for guests who want an extra sprinkle of flavor on their lasagna slices.

Red Pepper Flakes

• item Provide red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meal.

Fresh Basil Leaves

• item Garnish each serving with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and an aromatic finish.

How to Perfect Christmas Eve Lasagna (Festive Lasagna Bolognese!)

Perfecting your Christmas Eve Lasagna is all about attention to detail and quality ingredients. Follow these tips for a delicious dish that impresses every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs and vegetables to enhance the flavors of your bolognese sauce.
• Layer thoughtfully: Ensure each layer has an even distribution of meat sauce and ricotta to maintain balance and prevent dryness.
• Let it rest: Allowing the lasagna to sit before slicing helps it hold its shape, making it easier to serve.
• Cover while baking: Use foil during most of the baking time to keep moisture in, removing it near the end for a crispy top.
• Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to mix different types of cheese, like mozzarella or gouda, to create unique flavors.
• Adjust seasonings: Taste your bolognese sauce before layering. Adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Christmas Eve Lasagna (Festive Lasagna Bolognese!)

Pairing side dishes with your Christmas Eve Lasagna enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some delightful options that complement this festive dish perfectly.

1. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan creates a classic pairing that’s always a hit.
2. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil adds a refreshing appetizer option before the main course.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide a comforting side that pairs well with hearty lasagna.
4. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli drizzled with lemon juice offers a healthy option that adds vibrant color to your plate.
5. Caprese Salad – Slices of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create an elegant side that’s easy to prepare.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with quinoa, veggies, or rice can be baked alongside the lasagna for an eye-catching presentation.
7. Zucchini Noodles – Spiralized zucchini lightly sautéed serves as a low-carb alternative that complements the richness of lasagna nicely.
8. Herbed Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs adds subtle flavors without overpowering your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Christmas Eve Lasagna, it’s easy to make mistakes that can impact the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Boldly skip the resting time: Many cooks can’t wait to dig in right after baking. Allowing the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve.
• Boldly overlook ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can affect flavor. Opt for fresh herbs, high-quality cheese, and good ground beef for a richer taste.
• Boldly ignore layering technique: Improper layering can lead to uneven cooking. Follow the recommended layering order carefully for a balanced meal.
• Boldly rush the sauce: Skipping the simmering time for your bolognese will result in less flavor. Allow it to simmer low and slow for at least 90 minutes.
• Boldly forget about seasoning: Under-seasoned dishes can be bland. Taste your sauces and layers as you go, adjusting with salt and pepper as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best quality.

Freezing Christmas Eve Lasagna (Festive Lasagna Bolognese!)

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Christmas Eve Lasagna (Festive Lasagna Bolognese!)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 30-40 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Christmas Eve Lasagna special?

This festive lasagna combines rich homemade bolognese sauce with herbaceous basil pesto ricotta, creating a stunning dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.

Can I customize the ingredients in my Christmas Eve Lasagna?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute different types of meat or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

How long does it take to prepare Christmas Eve Lasagna?

The total time from prep to serving is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including resting time of at least 12 hours before baking.

What sides pair well with Christmas Eve Lasagna?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this hearty dish beautifully without overshadowing its flavors.

Final Thoughts

Christmas Eve Lasagna is not just a meal; it’s a festive centerpiece that brings family together. With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to become a highlight of your holiday traditions. Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or meats—it’s versatile enough to suit everyone’s tastes!