Indulge in the decadent layers of flavor with this Caramelized Onion Lasagna with Pancetta—a gourmet twist on the classic comfort food. Featuring velvety caramelized onions, crispy pancetta, and a rich béchamel sauce infused with nutmeg, this lasagna is a savory masterpiece. Each bite is elevated with a trio of cheeses—Parmesan, mozzarella, and ricotta—melting into tender pasta sheets for a luxurious texture. Perfectly balanced with sweet, salty, and creamy notes, this indulgent dish is a show-stopper for dinner parties or a hearty family meal. Garnished with fresh parsley, it’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you're a lasagna aficionado or exploring new layers of flavor, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the onions: Peel and thinly slice the onions. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onions, salt, and sugar. Cook while stirring occasionally, for about 30-35 minutes, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. Set aside.
Cook the pancetta: In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the béchamel sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Stir in nutmeg, black pepper, and 1 cup of Parmesan cheese. Remove from heat.
Boil the lasagna sheets: Cook the lasagna sheets in a large pot of salted boiling water for 4-5 minutes, or until slightly softened. Drain and lay them out flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Assemble the lasagna: In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of lasagna sheets, followed by a layer of caramelized onions, pancetta, dollops of ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and more béchamel sauce. Repeat layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of lasagna sheets topped with béchamel sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Bake the lasagna: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
Calories |
5140 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 305.0 g | 391% | |
| Saturated Fat | 146.4 g | 732% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.1 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 855 mg | 285% | |
| Sodium | 9140 mg | 397% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 370.7 g | 135% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 20.8 g | 74% | |
| Total Sugars | 77.4 g | ||
| Protein | 251.0 g | 502% | |
| Vitamin D | 9.0 mcg | 45% | |
| Calcium | 5040 mg | 388% | |
| Iron | 11.1 mg | 62% | |
| Potassium | 3883 mg | 83% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.