Name: Irresistible Christmas Eve Lasagna for Your Holiday Feast
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 840 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground beef (can substitute with ground turkey); 1 pound Ground pork (omit for a leaner version); 4 ounces Pancetta (can replace with bacon); 2 medium Carrots; 2 stalks Celery; 1 large Yellow onion; 4 cloves Garlic; 2 tablespoons Tomato paste; 28 ounces Crushed tomatoes (ensure quality brand); 1 cup Red wine (use broth for non-alcoholic version); 3 sprigs Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, bay leaves) (can swap with Italian seasoning); 2 cups Chicken broth or water (to adjust consistency); ½ cup Heavy cream; to taste Kosher salt; to taste Black pepper; 15 ounces Ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim); 6.3 ounces Basil pesto (homemade or store-bought); 2 large Eggs (omit for vegan version); ½ cup Grated parmesan (can substitute with nutritional yeast); 12 ounces No-boil lasagna noodles; 3 cups Mozzarella cheese (can replace with whole-milk mozzarella); 2 cups Italian cheese blend (substitute with any hard cheese)

As the scent of simmering bolognese wafts through my kitchen, I’m transported to countless joyful gatherings around the dinner table with family and friends. Introducing my Christmas Eve Lasagna, a festive twist on the traditional lasagna bolognese that is sure to impress! With layers of robust, homemade bolognese and a creamy basil pesto ricotta, this dish not only captivates the eye with its vibrant colors but also serves as an unbeatable crowd-pleaser, perfect for holiday celebrations. The best part? It’s relatively quick to assemble, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—making memories with loved ones. Curious how to create this show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday feast? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this lasagna so special?

Festive Presentation: The layers of deep red bolognese and vibrant green basil pesto ricotta create a stunning visual that adds joy to any holiday table.
Rich Flavor: Homemade bolognese bursting with robust flavors delivers a comfort dish that everyone will rave about!
Easy Assembly: With no-boil lasagna noodles, you can easily layer the ingredients and get back to your holiday festivities.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serving up to 12, this lasagna is perfect for gatherings, ensuring no one leaves the table hungry!
Make-Ahead Savvy: Assemble it a day in advance or even freeze for later; your future self will thank you when the holidays become less hectic!
Pair this with some Butter Skillet Corn for a complete festive meal to remember.

Christmas Eve Lasagna Ingredients

For the Bolognese Sauce

Ground beef – main protein; can substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
Ground pork – contributes to the sauce richness; omit for a leaner version.
Pancetta – adds depth to the sauce; can replace with bacon if unavailable.
Carrots – adds natural sweetness and nutrients to the sauce.
Celery – enhances flavor base, adds crunch.
Yellow onion – aromatic base for the bolognese.
Garlic – essential for flavor; chop finely for best results.
Tomato paste – thickens and intensifies the sauce; no strong substitute available.
Crushed tomatoes – main tomato base; ensure a quality brand for best flavor.
Red wine – adds flavor depth; use broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, bay leaves) – adds aromatic flavor; can swap with Italian seasoning.
Chicken broth or water – to adjust sauce consistency.
Heavy cream – adds richness and silkiness to the sauce.
Kosher salt and black pepper – essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.

For the Cheese Filling

Ricotta cheese – creamy layer; whole milk or part-skim as needed.
Basil pesto – simplifies pesto preparation; use homemade or store-bought for added convenience.
Eggs – binds ricotta layer; omit for vegan version.
Grated parmesan – enhances flavor in ricotta; can substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

For Assembly

No-boil lasagna noodles – main pasta layer; make sure they are evenly layered with sauces for the best results.
Mozzarella cheese – main cheese layer for stretchiness; can be replaced with whole-milk mozzarella if preferred.
Italian cheese blend – adds flavor complexity; substitute with any other hard cheese if desired.

Create this Christmas Eve Lasagna with love, and you’re sure to impress your guests this holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Eve Lasagna

Step 1: Make the Soffritto
Begin by processing the chopped carrots, celery, and onion in a food processor until finely minced. This aromatic base, known as soffritto, sets the stage for your rich bolognese sauce. Once processed, set it aside to allow the flavors to meld and get ready for the next steps.

Step 2: Prepare the Pestata
In the same food processor, finely chop the pancetta and garlic until they form a coarse paste. This mixture, called pestata, enhances the bolognese with depth and savory notes. Set it aside next to your soffritto, preparing for a flavorful cooking session ahead.

Step 3: Cook the Pestata
Heat a large pot over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, stir in the pestata and sauté for 4-5 minutes until it becomes fragrant and the pancetta is slightly crispy. This forms a rich foundation for your Christmas Eve lasagna.

Step 4: Add the Soffritto
With your pestata cooked, add the prepared soffritto into the pot. Season with kosher salt and sauté this mixture for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become tender and begin to caramelize. The sweet aroma will start filling your kitchen, creating excitement for the lasagna!

Step 5: Brown the Meat
Next, raise the heat to medium-high and incorporate the ground beef and pork into the pot. Cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spatula until it’s browned and no longer pink. Stir in tomato paste during the last few minutes to deepen the sauce’s flavor profile.

Step 6: Deglaze
Pour in 1 cup of medium-bodied red wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape up browned bits from the pot’s bottom. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the wine has reduced slightly. This step adds complexity and richness to your bolognese sauce for the Christmas Eve lasagna.

Step 7: Add Aromatics
Tie fresh herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves, together with kitchen twine, and add them to the pot along with a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes and 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Stir to combine everything, creating a beautiful amalgamation of flavors for the sauce.

Step 8: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for about 90 minutes. Stir occasionally and adjust the liquid with more broth or water if needed. The sauce should thicken to a rich, hearty consistency by the end of this leisurely cooking time.

Step 9: Finish Bolognese
Once simmering is complete, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of grated parmesan cheese. Let it blend until creamy, then season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. This luxurious bolognese will now be the star of your Christmas Eve Lasagna.

Step 10: Prepare Basil Pesto Ricotta
In a mixing bowl, combine 15 ounces of ricotta cheese, 6.3 ounces of basil pesto, 2 large eggs, and another ½ cup of grated parmesan. Mix thoroughly until smooth, and season with salt and pepper. This layer will add creaminess and a burst of herbaceous flavor to your lasagna.

Step 11: Assemble the Lasagna
In a large baking dish, start layering your Christmas Eve Lasagna: add a layer of bolognese, a layer of no-boil noodles, then a layer of the pesto ricotta mixture followed by shredded mozzarella and your Italian cheese blend. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, ending with cheese for a golden top.

Step 12: Rest
Cover the assembled lasagna with plastic wrap and let it refrigerate for at least 12 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This make-ahead step not only enhances the taste but also simplifies your holiday cooking.

Step 13: Bake
When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F. Remove the plastic wrap and bake the lasagna for about 60 minutes, uncovering it for the last 10 minutes to achieve a beautifully browned and bubbling cheesy top.

Step 14: Serve
After baking, allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve perfect squares of your festive Christmas Eve Lasagna!

Expert Tips for Christmas Eve Lasagna

Flavor Depth: Incorporate red wine during cooking to bring out the rich flavors in your bolognese. This step is essential for creating an irresistible Christmas Eve Lasagna!
Sufficient Resting: Let the assembled lasagna chill in the fridge overnight. This not only helps the flavors meld but also makes it easier to cut and serve.
Layering Technique: When assembling, ensure even distribution of sauce and cheese layers. This prevents dry bites and guarantees every slice is packed with flavor.
Avoid Over-Baking: Keep an eye on the baking time; uncover the lasagna for the last 10 minutes to achieve a perfectly golden and bubbly cheese layer without drying out the dish.
Taste Test: Season your bolognese sauce midway through cooking. Adjusting salt and pepper at this stage is key to maxing out flavor before layering in your Christmas Eve Lasagna.

What to Serve with Christmas Eve Lasagna

Creating a full holiday meal around this stunning dish is both effortless and delightful.

Garlic Bread: This golden, buttery staple adds a crunchy texture, perfect for soaking up extra bolognese sauce.
Mixed Greens Salad: A fresh salad with crunchy cucumbers and tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich lasagna.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized little gems enhance the meal’s festivity with their lovely roasted flavor and irresistible crispness.
Italian Wine: A medium-bodied Chianti complements the robust flavors of the lasagna while bringing warmth to your gathering.
Tiramisu: Finish the evening with this classic Italian dessert, combining layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone for a sweet treat.
Sangria: A festive, fruity sangria with seasonal spices adds a cheerful touch to your holiday table, lightening up the meal.

Gather your loved ones and set a beautiful table filled with these delights to complement your Christmas Eve Lasagna!

Christmas Eve Lasagna Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this festive lasagna, making it your own with delightful twists and swaps!

Lighter Protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork for a lighter option. This way, you can enjoy the same satisfying indulgence while lightening it up a bit!
Ricotta Substitute: If ricotta isn’t your favorite, you can swap it with cottage cheese or vegan ricotta to suit your dietary preferences. Both options retain creaminess and provide a delicious layer in your lasagna.
Cheese Adventures: Experiment with different cheese varieties like fontina or gouda to bring unique flavors to your lasagna. Adapting the cheese can transform the taste profile beautifully!
Herbaceous Twist: Add fresh spinach or kale to the ricotta layer for an extra boost of nutrients and a pop of color. It’s an easy way to infuse more veggies into this festive dish!
Dairy-Free Delight: For a dairy-free version, use plant-based cheese options in place of mozzarella and ricotta. Pairing these with a rich homemade sauce will still yield an impressive lasagna.
Flavor Enhancer: Stir in some crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle kick if you enjoy a bit of heat! This fiery twist will bring an exciting layer of flavor to your dish.
Bread Crust: Top your lasagna with breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy crust. This textural addition creates an unforgettable finish, bringing a satisfying crunch to every bite!
Make It Vegetarian: Omit the meat entirely and load up with roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. You’ll end up with a hearty, vegetable-packed alternative that still celebrates the holiday spirit.

As you explore these variations, consider pairing the lasagna with some Garlic Parmesan Chicken for a complete festive feast or enjoying it alongside Butter Skillet Corn for a delicious contrast!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Eve Lasagna layers are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts eager to save time during the holiday rush! You can assemble the entire lasagna and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. If you need even more flexibility, you can freeze the assembled lasagna for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, bake it directly from the freezer; just add an additional 15-20 minutes to the cooking time. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll enjoy all the satisfying flavors of homemade Christmas Eve Lasagna without the last-minute stress!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Eve Lasagna

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, cover the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked lasagna for up to 2 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake at 375°F for about 45 minutes until heated through.

Make-Ahead Tips: Preparing the Christmas Eve Lasagna a day in advance or freezing it before baking can enhance flavors and save time during the holiday rush!

Christmas Eve Lasagna Recipe FAQs

What type of tomatoes should I use for the bolognese sauce?
For the best flavor in your Christmas Eve Lasagna, opt for a quality brand of crushed tomatoes. A good rule of thumb is to look for tomatoes with fewer additives; San Marzano tomatoes are often recommended for their rich flavor, ensuring a delicious and aromatic sauce!

How long can I store leftover lasagna in the fridge?
Absolutely! You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness and flavor, make sure to cover the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating.

Can I freeze Christmas Eve Lasagna?
Definitely! You can freeze the unbaked lasagna for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake at 375°F for about 45 minutes until heated through.

What should I do if my bolognese sauce is too watery?
A common troubleshooting tip is to let your sauce simmer a bit longer to reduce excess liquid. Simmering uncovered allows moisture to evaporate, thickening the sauce. If you’re in a hurry, you can also add a pinch of cornstarch mixed with water to quickly thicken it, but be careful not to overdo it!

Can I make this lasagna vegan-friendly?
Very much so! To adapt this Christmas Eve Lasagna for a vegan diet, substitute the ricotta and mozzarella with vegan cheese alternatives and omit the eggs. You can also use lentils or mushrooms as a hearty filler in place of the meat, ensuring your lasagna remains both delicious and satisfying.

What’s the best way to reheat frozen lasagna?
To reheat your frozen Christmas Eve Lasagna, start by thawing it in the fridge overnight. Then, preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for about 45 minutes until it’s heated through. Cover it with aluminum foil for the first 30 minutes to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly, and then uncover it for the final 15 minutes to get that delightful bubbly top!