Christmas Eve Lasagna is a warm, cozy holiday dish made with rich beef Bolognese sauce, creamy basil pesto ricotta, and layers of tender pasta and melted cheese that bake into a golden, comforting meal perfect for Christmas gatherings. It reminds me of those special holiday evenings when the house felt calm and festive, and a big bubbling lasagna in the oven made everything feel cheerful and inviting. The hearty meat sauce mixed with the fresh pesto ricotta creates a delicious balance that feels both classic and festive, making Christmas Eve Lasagna a memorable centerpiece for family dinners and holiday celebrations.
INGREDIENTS
For the Bolognese sauce:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion (finely chopped)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 can (24 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp tomato paste
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
For the pesto ricotta layer:
2 cups ricotta cheese
1/3 cup basil pesto
1 egg
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
For assembling:
12 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package instructions or oven-ready)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and fragrant.
Step 2: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well, reduce heat, and let the sauce simmer for 15–20 minutes until thick and rich.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese, basil pesto, egg, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper until creamy and smooth.
Step 5: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of Bolognese sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Step 6: Add the first layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a layer of pesto ricotta mixture on top, followed by a layer of Bolognese sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella.
Step 7: Repeat the layers, noodles, pesto ricotta, Bolognese sauce, and mozzarella, until all ingredients are used, ending with sauce and cheese on top.
Step 8: Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the final cheese layer.
Step 9: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Step 10: Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
Step 11: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Variations
• Use half beef, half Italian sausage
• Add spinach to the ricotta layer
• Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina
• Use oven-ready noodles for quick prep
• Add red pepper flakes for spice
COOKING NOTES
• Simmer sauce longer for deeper flavor
• Let lasagna rest before slicing
• Drain beef well to avoid greasy layers
• Cover with foil to prevent burning
• Use whole-milk ricotta for creamier texture
Serving suggestions
• Serve with garlic bread
• Pair with a green salad
• Add roasted vegetables
• Serve as a holiday main dish
• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley
Tips
• Spread layers evenly for clean slices
• Don’t skip resting time after baking
• Use shredded cheese for easy melting
• Taste sauce and adjust seasoning
• Cook noodles al dente if boiling
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Nutritional Information
(Per serving, based on 8 servings)
Calories: ~520
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 34g
FAQs
Why is my lasagna watery?
- Too much sauce or not resting long enough can cause this; let it sit 10 minutes before cutting.
Can I make it ahead?
- Yes, assemble up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Can I freeze it?
- Yes, freeze unbaked or baked lasagna for up to 2 months.
Can I use jarred pesto?
- Yes, store-bought pesto works well for the ricotta layer.
Do I need to boil noodles first?
- If using oven-ready noodles, you can skip boiling.
Conclusion
Christmas Eve Lasagna is rich, comforting, and full of holiday warmth with its hearty Bolognese sauce and creamy basil pesto ricotta layers that bake into a beautiful, flavorful dish perfect for sharing. Its golden, bubbly top and delicious layers make it a stunning main course for holiday dinners, family gatherings, and cozy celebrations. It’s the kind of recipe that brings everyone to the table, creates lasting memories, and becomes a holiday tradition that feels special year after year.
