🍝 Creamy Ham & Cheese Lasagna – A Decadent Twist on a Classic!



  • 12 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or boiled al dente)

  • 3 cups diced ham (or leftover holiday ham!)

  • 3 cups shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan

  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)

  • Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Make the Béchamel

  1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

  2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute (don’t let it brown!).

  3. Gradually pour in warm milk, whisking constantly until smooth.

  4. Simmer for 3-5 mins until thickened, then season with nutmeg, salt, and white pepper.

2️⃣ Assemble the Lasagna

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Spread ½ cup béchamel in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.

  3. Layer in this order:

    • 4 lasagna noodles

    • ⅓ ham + ⅓ Swiss/Gruyère + ½ cup béchamel

    • Repeat twice, ending with noodles.

  4. Top with remaining béchamel, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

  5. (Optional: Drizzle Dijon mustard over the top for a flavor boost!)

3️⃣ Bake to Golden Perfection

  1. Cover with foil and bake for 30 mins.

  2. Uncover and bake 15-20 mins more until bubbly and golden.

  3. Let rest 10 mins before slicing (for clean layers!).

💡 Pro Tips for the Best Lasagna

🔸 Use high-quality ham – Leftover baked ham or Black Forest ham works best.
🔸 Don’t skip resting time – Prevents a runny lasagna.
🔸 Add veggies – Sautéed spinach or mushrooms pair beautifully.
🔸 Make ahead – Assemble 1 day ahead and refrigerate (add 10 mins baking time).

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

✨ With a crisp salad – Arugula with lemon vinaigrette cuts the richness.
✨ Pair with white wine – Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
✨ Holiday brunch star – Serve with mimosas for Easter or Christmas!

🤔 FAQ – Your Questions Answered!

Q: Can I use regular lasagna noodles?
A: Yes! Boil them al dente first (or use no-boil for convenience).

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: 4 days in the fridge or 3 months frozen (reheat covered with foil).

Q: Can I substitute the ham?
A: Yes! Try turkey, bacon, or even smoked salmon for a luxe twist.

 

;