Patrick Oconnell
There are many different types of cheese that can be used when making lasagne, and the choice of cheese often depends on personal preference. Some people prefer the richness and creaminess of ricotta cheese, while others opt for the low-fat, high-protein option of cottage cheese. For a vegetarian-friendly lasagne, it is important to note that traditional parmesan cheese contains animal rennet, an enzyme that helps the cheese set, so it should be replaced with a vegetarian alternative. Other popular cheeses used in lasagne include mozzarella, provolone, fontina, mascarpone, and cheddar.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of cheese layers | 3-5 |
| Types of cheese used | Ricotta, Mozzarella, Cottage Cheese, Parmesan, Provolone, Romano, Cheddar |
| Cheese placement | On top of each layer of white sauce |
| Baking temperature | 350°F-375°F (175°C-180°C) |
| Baking time | 40-45 minutes |
| Resting time | 10-15 minutes |
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What You'll Learn
Ricotta, mozzarella and Parmesan
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are three of the most commonly used cheeses in a lasagne recipe. The cheeses are layered with lasagne sheets and a tomato-based sauce, often with meat, to create a rich and comforting dish.
Ricotta is an essential component of traditional lasagne. Its creamy texture blends well with other cheeses, creating a smooth and indulgent mouthfeel. In a typical lasagne recipe, ricotta is mixed with eggs, Parmesan, salt, and pepper to form a homogeneous mixture. This mixture is then layered between lasagne sheets, adding a creamy texture and a tangy flavour.
Mozzarella is another key cheese in lasagne, known for its stretchy, melty texture when cooked. Whole milk mozzarella is often preferred, as it creates a creamier and cheesier dish. Mozzarella is shredded and layered between the lasagne sheets, adding a stringy and indulgent element to the dish.
Parmesan, or Parmigiano Reggiano, is a hard Italian cheese with a strong, nutty flavour. It is often grated and sprinkled on top of the lasagne, adding a salty and savoury note to the dish. Parmesan can also be incorporated into the sauce, adding depth of flavour and helping to create a creamy consistency.
The combination of these three cheeses in a lasagne creates a balance of flavours and textures, making the dish a favourite among cheese lovers. The creamy ricotta, stretchy mozzarella, and salty Parmesan work together to enhance the other ingredients and create a comforting, flavourful lasagne.
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Cottage cheese instead of ricotta
Ricotta is a must in traditional lasagne recipes, but cottage cheese can be used as a substitute. Cottage cheese has a similar light, creamy flavour and texture to ricotta, but it does not curdle and become grainy at high temperatures like ricotta does. Cottage cheese retains its creamy consistency even after being baked in the oven for a long time.
Cottage cheese can be substituted for ricotta in a 1:1 ratio, but the only additional adjustment to be made is the use of salt. Cottage cheese traditionally contains more salt than ricotta, so the quantity of salt may need to be adjusted.
Cottage cheese is a great option for those who do not like the texture or flavour of ricotta. It is also a good choice for those looking for a creamier lasagne. Some people also prefer cottage cheese because it is creamier and easier to spread than ricotta, resulting in a lighter but still satisfying final texture.
Cottage cheese is also a nutritious option, providing protein, calcium, phosphorus, and gut-healthy probiotics. It is a trendy comeback ingredient that can be used to make a delicious baked Italian casserole layered with flavour.
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Nutmeg as a secret ingredient
While there are many types of cheese that you can use for lasagne, such as ricotta, mozzarella, cottage cheese, provolone, Romano, and Parmesan, there is one secret ingredient that can take your lasagne to the next level: nutmeg.
Nutmeg is a spice that is commonly associated with baking and is often used in pumpkin-based desserts like pumpkin pie or old-fashioned soft pumpkin cookies. However, nutmeg can also be used in savoury dishes, and it is particularly effective in enhancing the flavour of cheese in lasagne.
The key is to add a small amount of nutmeg to the ricotta cheese mixture. Nutmeg has a naturally sweet, nutty, and warm flavour that complements the creaminess of the ricotta. It adds a depth of flavour to the lasagne that is comforting and unique. If you're using pre-ground nutmeg, start with about 1/4 teaspoon for a 9x13-inch pan of lasagna. If you're using freshly ground nutmeg, which has a stronger flavour, you can start with half the amount, about 1/8 teaspoon, and adjust from there.
It's important to note that nutmeg may not pair well with all types of lasagne. While it works beautifully with meat-based lasagne, especially with beef and game, it may not be the best choice for chicken. Similarly, bright, crisp summer vegetables like asparagus or artichokes may not benefit from nutmeg's warm, spicy notes. However, nutmeg can enhance the flavour of fall and winter vegetables like butternut squash or kale.
So, if you're looking to elevate your lasagne game, don't be afraid to experiment with nutmeg. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste. Your guests will surely be left wondering what your secret ingredient is!
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Provolone and Romano
Provolone is a semi-hard aged cow's milk cheese that originated in Southern Italy. It has two varieties based on the duration of aging: dolce (sweet) and piccante (sharp or spicy). Provolone slices, shreds, and melts easily, making it a good substitute for mozzarella. It can also be added to the lasagne recipe in addition to the standard cheese types. Provolone brings nuanced nutty, sweet, and smoky notes to the lasagne. It pairs well with cured ham, ground meat, and tomatoes, making it a good choice for a traditional tomato-based bolognese sauce lasagne. For a vegetarian pesto lasagne, provolone piccante can be used in a béchamel sauce to smother over a layer of pesto-infused ricotta and spinach between the pasta sheets.
Romano, on the other hand, is a saltier cheese than parmesan. It is also known as pecorino Romano and is commonly used in northern Italian lasagne. When using Romano cheese, it is important to hold back on adding extra salt to the dish as the cheese is saltier than other varieties. Romano cheese can be mixed with parmesan and sprinkled over the layers of lasagne.
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Cheddar
While traditional lasagne typically features cheeses such as ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, some recipes do use cheddar as a substitute.
To make a lasagne with a cheddar cheese sauce, you will need to prepare a bechamel sauce. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in flour, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook and stir for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and continue to cook and stir until the sauce becomes thick and bubbly, which should take about 10 minutes. Allow the sauce to cool for 10 minutes.
To assemble the lasagne, preheat your oven to 400°F. Spread 3/4 cup of meat sauce in the bottom of a 13-by-9-inch baking pan. Place 4 sheets of lasagne crosswise in the pan over the sauce, allowing them to overlap slightly. The sheets will expand as they bake. Top the lasagne sheets with one-third of the meat sauce, spreading it evenly, then add one-third of the bechamel sauce and one-third of the shredded aged cheddar cheese. Repeat these layers twice, starting each layer with lasagne sheets.
Bake the lasagne, uncovered, for 35 to 40 minutes. If the top starts to brown too much, cover it loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes. Allow the lasagne to cool for 15 minutes before serving.
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Frequently asked questions
Popular cheeses to use for lasagne include ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, mascarpone, cottage cheese, provolone, fontina, cheddar, pecorino romano, and parm.
The amount of cheese used in lasagne varies depending on the recipe and the number of layers. A typical recipe may call for 15 ounces of ricotta cheese to create two thin layers, while another may use 2 cups of ricotta and 2 cups of cottage cheese.
Yes, you can use vegan cheese to make a plant-based lasagne. For example, you can make vegan ricotta using tofu.
Yes, you can prepare lasagne with cheese in advance. It is recommended to assemble the lasagne and let it sit in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.
