Broccoli and Cheese Lasagnae

Ingredients:

For the Lasagna:

– 9 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package instructions)
– 4 cups broccoli florets (blanched or steamed)
– 2 cups cooked and diced bacon or ham (optional)
– 3 cups ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups béchamel sauce (recipe below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)

For the Béchamel Sauce:

– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 4 cups milk (warmed)
– Salt and white pepper to taste
– A pinch of nutmeg (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:

1. **Melt the butter** in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. **Add the flour** and whisk continuously to form a roux, cooking it for 1-2 minutes.
3. **Gradually add the warm milk**, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. **Cook the sauce** until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. **Season** with salt, white pepper, and nutmeg if desired. Set aside.

Assemble the Lasagna:

1. **Preheat your oven** to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Grease a baking dish** with olive oil.
3. **Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce** at the bottom of the dish.
4. **Place three lasagna noodles** on top of the sauce.
5. **Spread one-third of the ricotta cheese** over the noodles, then sprinkle with one-third of the broccoli and bacon (if using).
6. **Pour some béchamel sauce** over the layer, and then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.
7. **Repeat the layers** two more times (noodles, ricotta, broccoli, bacon, béchamel, mozzarella).
8. **Top the final layer** with béchamel sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.

Bake:

1. **Cover the lasagna** with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. **Remove the foil** and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
3. **Allow to cool** slightly before slicing and serving.

This lasagna is a comforting dish, filled with creamy cheese and nutritious broccoli, perfect for a family dinner. You can customize it further by adding other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

Let me know if you need more recipes or adjustments!