Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce is a comforting, savory twist on traditional lasagna that combines the creamy richness of Mornay sauce with the smoky, savory flavor of ham. If you’re a fan of classic comfort food, this dish will quickly become a favorite. The layers of tender pasta, gooey cheese, and flavorful ham make each bite irresistibly delicious. What really sets this lasagna apart is the Mornay sauce – a creamy béchamel sauce with a touch of cheese, which adds a velvety, indulgent texture to the dish. It’s a perfect option for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or a cozy weeknight meal. I’ve tried it with a variety of cheeses, and each time, it’s been a hit. Whether you make it with leftover ham or fresh ingredients, this lasagna is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce – Rich & Flavorful
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
A rich and creamy lasagna made with layers of tender pasta, savory ham, gooey cheese, and a luxurious Mornay sauce for an indulgent twist on a classic dish.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Spread a thin layer of the Mornay sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer 4 lasagna noodles on top, followed by half of the diced ham, half of the mozzarella cheese, and half of the Swiss cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, ham, mozzarella, and Swiss cheese.
- Pour the remaining Mornay sauce over the top of the lasagna, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cheese and milk for the Mornay sauce.
- This recipe can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a layer of sautéed spinach or mushrooms between the cheese layers.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ham
Ham is the star protein in this lasagna. I recommend using a lean, cooked ham, either diced or sliced thinly, for a more delicate texture. The ham adds a savory depth to the dish that pairs wonderfully with the creamy Mornay sauce and melted cheese.
Lasagna Noodles
Lasagna noodles are the foundation of the dish. Use either traditional lasagna noodles or no-boil noodles for a quicker preparation. Boil the noodles if they aren’t no-boil, making sure they’re al dente to avoid them becoming mushy during baking.
Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella cheese is key to achieving the gooey, cheesy texture that makes lasagna so delicious. It melts perfectly and blends with the other cheeses to create a smooth, creamy finish.
Ricotta Cheese
Ricotta cheese provides richness and a creamy texture to the lasagna filling. It’s often used as a base in lasagna recipes and creates a smooth, decadent layer that contrasts nicely with the ham and cheese.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese adds a savory, nutty flavor to the lasagna. When sprinkled between the layers, it provides a nice sharp contrast to the creaminess of the ricotta and mozzarella.
Butter
Butter is the base for the Mornay sauce. It adds richness and depth to the creamy sauce, making it luxurious and indulgent.
Flour
Flour is used to thicken the Mornay sauce. When combined with the butter, it forms the foundation of a smooth, velvety béchamel sauce that will later be infused with cheese.
Milk
Milk creates the creamy base for the Mornay sauce. Whole milk works best, but you can use 2% milk or even almond milk if you need a dairy-free option.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese is the second key ingredient in the Mornay sauce. It provides the sauce with a rich, tangy flavor and enhances the creaminess. I use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor, but mild cheddar works just as well.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is a classic spice in Mornay sauce and béchamel, adding a subtle warmth that deepens the flavor of the sauce.
Salt and Pepper
Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning, bringing out the flavors of the ham, cheese, and Mornay sauce. Adjust these to your taste.
Directions
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Mornay Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to form a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens. Once thickened, stir in cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Continue to cook, stirring, until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Set the sauce aside. - Prepare the Noodles:
Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions (if using regular noodles). Drain and set aside. - Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the Mornay sauce on the bottom. Layer the cooked lasagna noodles, then add a layer of ham, followed by a layer of ricotta cheese, and then more Mornay sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese on top. - Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. - Serve:
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before cutting into it. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice. Serve warm and enjoy!
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, cooking time is 45 minutes, and total time is about 1 hour.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake the lasagna at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick reheating option.
Variations and Customizations
Use Different Meats
If you’re not a fan of ham, this lasagna can easily be customized with other meats like chicken, turkey, or even sausage. Simply swap out the ham and follow the same layering process.
Vegetarian Version
For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and replace it with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables. The creamy Mornay sauce still provides a rich, flavorful base, making it a hearty dish even without meat.
Gluten-Free Lasagna
For a gluten-free option, substitute the regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free noodles. Many gluten-free pasta brands now offer lasagna sheets that work just as well as traditional noodles.
Extra Cheese
If you love cheese, feel free to add more layers of mozzarella or try using a different variety of cheese like provolone, fontina, or goat cheese. The more cheese, the better!
Add Spices and Herbs
If you want to add more flavor, sprinkle in some Italian seasoning, basil, or oregano into the sauce. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also be added for a fragrant touch.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate values per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Use Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor
While the Mornay sauce is rich and flavorful, fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil can enhance the overall flavor profile. Add them to the sauce or sprinkle them over the top for a fragrant finish.
Ensure Even Layers
When layering the lasagna, be sure to spread each layer evenly to avoid clumps or dry spots. This will ensure each bite is filled with all the delicious flavors.
Rest Before Serving
Let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve without everything falling apart.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for the Mornay sauce?
Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, like Gruyère, fontina, or provolone. They will change the flavor slightly, but still work wonderfully in the sauce.
Can I prepare this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, simply increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes to account for the cold temperature.
Can I freeze this lasagna?
Absolutely! Freeze the assembled, uncooked lasagna for up to 2 months. To bake, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge and then follow the normal baking instructions.
Can I use no-boil noodles?
Yes, no-boil noodles work great in this recipe. Simply follow the package instructions and add a little extra sauce to ensure the noodles cook properly.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While lasagna noodles are the traditional choice, you can experiment with other pasta shapes, such as penne or rigatoni, if you prefer.
How long should I bake the lasagna?
Bake the lasagna for 30-35 minutes covered with foil, then remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Can I use cooked ham or raw ham?
For convenience, it’s best to use cooked ham, which will heat up quickly in the oven. Raw ham should be cooked separately before adding to the lasagna.
How do I prevent my lasagna from being watery?
Make sure to drain excess moisture from the ricotta cheese and any vegetables you add to the lasagna. Using enough sauce to cover the noodles also helps prevent dryness.
Can I make this lasagna gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute gluten-free lasagna noodles. Many stores carry gluten-free varieties that work perfectly in this recipe.
How can I make this lasagna spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even a bit of ground cayenne pepper to the Mornay sauce to add some heat.
Conclusion
Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The rich, cheesy layers and savory ham make each bite a satisfying experience. With endless variations and customizations, this recipe is easy to adapt to suit your preferences, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with your favorite ingredients, this lasagna is sure to become a family favorite!
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