Savory Ham and Cheese Lasagna Recipe

Looking for a show-stopping yet easy recipe to impress unexpected guests or simply treat yourself to a comforting meal? Look no further than this delightful creation – Lasagna with Ham and Cheese. Picture layers of tender ham nestled between sheets of fresh lasagna, smothered in a creamy sauce with a subtle hint of nutmeg, and generously topped with a blend of Emmental and raclette cheese that melts into gooey perfection. This dish is a true crowd-pleaser and a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.

The inspiration behind this lasagna was born out of a moment of spontaneity and necessity – a hurried attempt to whip up a meal for loved ones that turned into a culinary triumph. The flavors in this dish evoke a sense of sophistication, reminiscent of a gourmet Parisian dining experience. The addition of nutmeg in the sauce elevates the dish to a whole new level, while the combination of cheeses adds a richness that is both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy homemade meal, this Lasagna with Ham and Cheese is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and Easy to Make: Perfect for last-minute dinner guests or busy weeknights.
• Rich and Satisfying Dish: Creamy sauce, layers of ham, and melted cheese create a comforting and indulgent meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with different cheeses or add-ons like sautéed mushrooms to suit your taste preferences.
• Make-Ahead and Reheat-friendly: Tastes even better the next day and can be prepared in advance for easy entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Ham and Cheese Lasagna Recipe Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for last-minute meals when unexpected guests show up or when you want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Sophisticated Flavors: Creamy sauce with a hint of nutmeg reminiscent of French bistro dishes gives it a sophisticated taste that feels like dining out.
• Comfort Food: Layers of ham and melted cheese create a comforting and satisfying experience that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile: You can customize the recipe by using different cheeses like Gruyère or adding sautéed mushrooms between layers for extra richness.
• Make-ahead Option: Assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready, making it perfect for entertaining or meal prep.
• Leftover Perfection: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, and reheats perfectly in the oven for a stress-free meal prep option.
• Budget-friendly: Uses simple ingredients like ham, cheese, and fresh pasta sheets that are not only affordable but also readily available in most kitchens.
• Family Favorite: Picky eaters will love this dish, as evidenced by the brother-in-law who kept asking for more servings, and it’s a hit even with those who claim to have a refined palate.
• Sophisticated Dining at Home: A glass of wine, a simple salad, and some crusty bread elevate the meal, making it feel like a fancy dinner party without the hassle.
• Impressive Yet Simple: Despite its straightforward preparation, the combination of ingredients creates a dish that tastes complex, making it a go-to recipe for when you want to impress with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Savory Ham and Cheese Lasagna Recipe

Pasta & Ham

• 6 slices of ham
• 6 large sheets of fresh lasagna

Mornay Sauce

• 600 grams semi-skimmed milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 50 grams onion, peeled and quartered
• 3 pinches pepper
• 3 pinches ground nutmeg
• 50 grams butter
• 55 grams flour
• 1 egg yolk

Cheese

• 220 grams sliced raclette cheese (or other cheeses: gouda, reblochon, comté, beaufort, emmental, cheddar)
• 140 grams grated Emmental cheese

How to Make Savory Ham and Cheese Lasagna Recipe

Step 1: Prepare onion

Add the peeled and quartered onion to a blender and pulse for 2 seconds at speed 5. Scrape down the sides with a spatula.

Step 2: Make Mornay sauce base

Combine butter, flour, milk, egg yolk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg in a blender. Blend on speed 4 at 90°C for 8 minutes.

Step 3: Finish sauce

Stir in 100 grams of grated Emmental cheese and cook for an additional minute at 90°C on speed 4.

Step 4: Start layering

Grease a gratin dish and spread a thin layer of Mornay sauce on the bottom. Arrange a layer of lasagna sheets on top, adjusting to fit.

Step 5: First layer

Layer 1/4 of the Mornay sauce, followed by 2 slices of ham and 1/3 of the raclette cheese.

Step 6: Second layer

Layer another portion of pasta, spread 1/3 of the remaining sauce, place 2 slices of ham, and sprinkle more raclette cheese.

Step 7: Third layer

Layer pasta, half of the remaining sauce, 2 slices of ham, and the rest of the raclette cheese.

Step 8: Final layer and bake

Top with a final layer of pasta and the remaining Mornay sauce. Sprinkle with 40 grams of Emmental cheese. Bake at 200°C for 20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Storage Tips

Once the ham and cheese lasagna is cooked and cooled, store it properly to maintain its flavor and texture. You can refrigerate the lasagna in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the desired portion in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

If you’d like to store the lasagna for longer or prepare it ahead of time for a future meal, you can freeze it. Wrap the cooled lasagna tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Frozen lasagna can last for 1-2 months. To reheat from frozen, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 1-1.5 hours, covering with foil for the first half of the cooking time to prevent excessive browning. Allow the lasagna to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Remember that the flavors of the lasagna will continue to meld and improve with time, so it’s a dish that can be made ahead of time and reheated for a convenient and delicious meal. Whether serving for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this ham and cheese lasagna is a versatile and impressive dish that can be enjoyed freshly made or reheated from storage with excellent results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have Emmental or raclette cheese on hand, you can easily substitute them with other types of cheeses like Gruyère, gouda, reblochon, comté, beaufort, emmental, or cheddar. These cheeses will still provide a rich and melty texture to the lasagna, adding a delicious layer of flavor to the dish. Feel free to mix and match different cheeses based on your personal preference or what you have available in your fridge.

In place of ham, you can use other types of cooked meats such as turkey, chicken, or even cooked bacon. These alternatives will still provide a savory and protein-rich element to the lasagna. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can also omit the meat altogether or substitute it with sautéed mushrooms for an extra depth of flavor. Additionally, incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or basil into the sauce can elevate the dish with added aroma and freshness. Experimenting with different ingredients can help you customize the lasagna to suit your taste preferences or accommodate any dietary restrictions.

Serving Suggestions

Serve up this indulgent Ham and Cheese Lasagna with a side of mixed greens drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish. Don’t forget to have some crusty bread on hand to soak up every last bit of the creamy sauce. And of course, a glass of your favorite wine will elevate the dining experience and make it feel like a fancy dinner party!

For a twist, consider adding sautéed mushrooms between the layers of ham and cheese for an extra depth of flavor. Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or incorporate fresh herbs like thyme into the sauce to tailor the dish to your preferences. Whether serving it fresh out of the oven or reheating leftovers the next day, this ham and cheese lasagna is a versatile and crowd-pleasing option for any occasion.

FAQs for Savory Ham and Cheese Lasagna Recipe

Can I use different types of cheese in this lasagna?

Yes, you can use a variety of cheeses such as Gruyère, gouda, reblochon, comté, beaufort, emmental, or cheddar. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to suit your taste preferences.

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. This makes it a convenient dish for entertaining or meal prep.

What can I serve with this ham and cheese lasagna?

To balance the richness of the lasagna, consider serving a simple salad with vinaigrette on the side. Crusty bread is great for soaking up the extra sauce, and a glass of wine can enhance the dining experience.

Is it necessary to include nutmeg in the sauce?

While the recipe suggests using nutmeg, it is not a strict requirement. However, adding a hint of nutmeg can elevate the flavors and enhance the overall taste of the dish, giving it a more sophisticated and complex flavor profile.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Lasagna with Ham and Cheese makes its way to your dinner table soon. The rich layers of creamy sauce, ham, and a blend of cheeses create a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Don’t forget that pinch of nutmeg – it truly elevates the flavors and adds that extra touch of magic to the dish.

Whether you’re serving this to family or friends, this ham and cheese lasagna is sure to impress. Remember to pair it with a simple salad, some crusty bread, and a glass of wine for a complete dining experience. With its make-ahead potential and the ability to develop even more flavor overnight, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy days or last-minute gatherings. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction that Lasagna with Ham and Cheese brings to your kitchen, and happy cooking!