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Classic Italian Lasagna
Recipe courtesy Giada De Laurentiis Show: Everyday Italian Episode: All About Lasagna Overall User Rating: 
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Spinach is overpowering
07/16/2008 at 10:25pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
There are wonderful ingredients in this recipe, but the 2 packages of spinach overpowers everything else. Cut it down to one and it will probably be great, but with the recipe as written, you can taste nothing but spinach. I love spinach, and I found myself picking much out in order to be able to taste something else.
takes a while, well worth it
07/03/2008 at 10:22pm
User: Katie from Libertyville, IL User Rating:
This recipe was wonderful, even with a few variations and all the prep work. The sauce is absolutely wonderful and can be prepared ahead---Giada also recommends letting it sit on low heat for about an hour, so just keep that in mind when planning ahead. I cut up some baby portabello mushrooms in the vegetables too. Just really pack in the spinach, sauce, and use all the cheese (even more) than she calls for. This recipe is absolutely delicious, satisfying, and definitely not overwhelmed and heavy with sauce and ingredients like other variations. It's truly wonderful and impressive!
Bland
06/12/2008 at 01:59am
User: Bea from Lake Arrowhead, CA User Rating:
Lasagne is bland...a creamy tomato sauce without herbs. I salvaged it by spicing up the left-over tomato sauce with herbs, browned Italian sausage, and beef broth, then spooning it over lasagne servings. This recipe also takes much longer to prepare than quoted.
Pretty Good
05/27/2008 at 09:33pm
User: ERIN from Choctaw, OK User Rating:
This was a pretty good lasagna, but I don't think it's good enough to be worth the extremely long preparation time and all the rave reviews on here. I made a couple changes based on other reviews. I reduced the amount of spinach by half and it was still plenty spinachey for me. I also used half Italian sausage, half ground beef and I used 2% milk for the Bechamel. I also added some grated parmesan to the bechamel, and instead of mixing the bechamel and marinara, I layered the bechamel on top of the marinara. I prefer it this way so that it has more layers and defined flavor. Beware of the prep time- I am an accomplished cook and it took me way longer than 30 minutes to do the prep. Also this is a very heavy, rich dish- it will bust your gut. I recommend not eating too much of this. This recipe makes a mountain of food. I could barely fit it all in my 9x13 dish and it spilled over while cooking. Half of this recipe would easily feed a family of four. After all that work, it tasted like something I could get at any sit down chain Italian restaurant. There's just not anything special or particularly great about it. I will keep looking for my HG lasagna recipe.
the best
05/14/2008 at 04:49pm
User: kelly from naples, FL User Rating:
My family loved this lasagna. I really liked the simple sauce. Will make again. By the way this is time comsuming ,but worth it.
I'd make a change or two...
05/07/2008 at 12:11pm
User: Amy from Bells, TX User Rating:
Good recipe (I used the one in her Everyday Italian book, which mixes 1.5 cups marinara sauce with 2.5 cups bechamel sauce). I'd make a change, though, by putting only half the amount of spinach, and/or mixing it with the ricotta before layering. I wasn't too crazy about biting into a big gob of spinach.
Something is wrong with this recipe
05/03/2008 at 08:25am
User: Lori from Visalia, CA User Rating:
I think this recipes need to be checked out by Giada because somewhere it is printed worng, or some detail is missing. I have made tons of Giada's recipes and they are all 5 stars to me. I have made many Lasagna's in my life, and this recipe is just awful. It doesn't make sense that this would turn out so bad. No one would eat it. It was not like the picture at all. The sauce is very pale orange and bland bland bland. That is why I think Giada needs to check out this recipe and make sure it is posted correctly on the website.
great lasagna
04/23/2008 at 04:07pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
This recipe is delicious!! I used marinara sauce instead of bachemel. Although I am certain that it would be great with bachemel sauce. I use bachemel when I am making what is called a "white" lasagna casserole.
delicioso
04/16/2008 at 04:19pm
User: Isis from San Antonio, TX User Rating:
perfecto and easy
BLAH BLAH BLAH
04/11/2008 at 12:27pm
User: Ursula from Laguna Beach, CA User Rating:
I've made a few of Giada's recipes before so I was excited about this lasagna recipe. I made two batches ... one for my husband's birthday and one to take to a friend with a new baby. ACK!!! It's SO BAD we can't take it to our friend. It's FLAVORLESS. Totally bland!! I thought 4 parts tasteless milk sauce to one part tomato sauce was weird .. but I followed the recipe to a T. Too much Bechamel!! Also, the layers were oddly not all melted into each other ... the bottom was a giant layer of ricotta just sitting there all by itself. Yuck! If you're going to make this, I recommend more layering and cheese throughout, adding more spice/tomato sauce and pulling back on the Bechamel. I'm trying Tyler's Ultimate Lasagna recipe next.
Very tasty
04/06/2008 at 09:18am
User: Erin from College Park, MD User Rating:
This recipe took me a few hours to prepare, BUT I also made her bechamel and marinara from scratch before I started with the noodles, etc. It's a very good lasagna, and got rave reviews from all who tried a piece. Here are my suggestions which I will heed to the next time I make this: 1) Add more salt. I am always light on salt when using cheese, but this recipe can stand to use more. 2) Use precooked noodles, and 3) Add more sauce to the layers. With these mods, you're sure to have a hit on your table.
Worth the extra effort!
04/04/2008 at 07:39pm
User: Kathleen from Ringgold, GA User Rating:
Reading the reviews, I cannot believe anyone would call this lasagna lacking flavor! I did buy quality ingredients, maybe that was the difference? The only thing I would change is probably only use one box of spinach instead of two. We served this two nights in a row, because we had unexpected guests and they all said it was delicious! Hubby will never let me cook another lasagna again after this one. Not runny, full of flavor and absolutely delicious!!
perfect
03/24/2008 at 03:12pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
wouldn't change a single detail. this is a crowd pleaser, never disappoints. i grew up in an italian-american family and love lasagna. this recipe is as good as or better than what i remember as a kid. go giada go!
very good
03/19/2008 at 11:48pm
User: Anna from Richmond, VA User Rating:
My family loved this recipe! my dad talked about it for several days. However making the sauce took a lot of time, and while it tasted very good im not sure if the trade off was quite enough. I will definately make this again but i most likely will use store bought sauce instead just to save some time.
no taste
03/03/2008 at 10:13am
User: Renee from golden, CO User Rating:
My husband and myself found this to be the worst lasagna ever. The bechamel sauce has no flavor. For all the work this was a big disappointment.
LOVE THIS!
02/26/2008 at 08:01pm
User: Melissa from Arnold, MD User Rating:
I first made this lasagne for a progressive dinner in 2004. It was a great hit with everyone! Since then I have made a few changes. I half the amount of spinach, use a little more mozzerella, and when I am in a hurry I use a jar of alfredo sauce from the grocery store. My lasagne loving friend says this is her FAVORITE!
Too Much Cheese!!
02/26/2008 at 01:49pm
User: Georgia from Carlsbad, CA User Rating:
The semi-home-made tomato sauce was great. I will never buy canned again. However, the Bechemel sauce needed more tomato sauce and less high fat milk. I would prefer twice as much spinach and meat and half as much cheese. She does not keep her figure eating like this. Georgia, Carlsbad, CA
Excellent and Easy to make
02/19/2008 at 05:31pm
User: J from El Centro, CA User Rating:
I really enjoyed mamking this lasagna and found it to be easy. I enjoyed the bechamel sauce as an added bonus. I used my own sauce instead of the simple tomato sauce that is in th recipe. I also added additional parmesan than the recipe called for (my own preference). Like the other people I seasoned the ricotta. The top of the lasagna was a mixture of mozzarella, parmesan, and provolone.
Best ever!!
02/17/2008 at 08:44pm
User: Theresa from Elk Grove, CA User Rating:
I'm italian and always swore that my mother's lasagna was the best...but not any more. This is not only better the first time around but is equally great heated up the next day. A little time consuming to make, but definitely worth it!!
THE BEST
02/16/2008 at 02:50pm
User: Sandra from La Porte, IN User Rating:
THIS IS THE BEST LASAGNA I HAVE EVER HAD. I FLOORED MY GIRLFRIEND! THANKS
Great!
01/30/2008 at 06:45pm
User: Pari from Baltimore, MD User Rating:
I made this last summer for my boyfriend's birthday, and we both loved it. Thanks to KELLY from BONITA SPRINGS, FL for her correction to the online recipe. I decreased the bechamel, and I had the perfect amount of sauce.
delicious!
01/20/2008 at 09:01pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
this was my first lasagna and it turned out so well, probably one of the best lasagnas that i have had! i used a store brand of marinara sauce instead of making my own to cut down on time, and it fit in just fine. i also used low-fat ricotta cheese, which was a little bit flavorless - next time i will still buy low-fat, but will add more salt and seasoning. other than that, it was delicious and easy!
FANTASTIC base lasagna recipe
12/28/2007 at 12:07pm
User: aellis from douglas, MA User Rating:
Ignore all ratings below four stars, those people don't know how to cook and are probably using Wal-Mart ground beef. Season as you go and use quality ingredients and this recipe will be a staple! I seasoned my ricotta with a teaspoon of anchovy paste and dried thyme. I threw parm-reg rinds into my tomato sauce. Just a few extras that make a difference. Thanks Giada!
Dissapointingly Dull
12/13/2007 at 01:16pm
User: Carolyn from Columbia, SC User Rating:
I usually like Giada recipes, but this one fell flat. It took a momentous amount of time to prepare, making the sauces from scratch, but it had little flavor and taste. The spinach was nice, but this recipe needs more spice!!
YUM!
12/12/2007 at 04:46pm
User: Sarah from Tulsa, OK User Rating:
This is my family's favorite! I make this anytime a friend has a baby- it freezes so well!!
LASAGNA SLOP
11/15/2007 at 10:48am
User: Rocco from Byron, CA User Rating:
This is by far the worst recipe that I have ever used. Save yourself the time and money, do not use this recipe. It is bland, greasy, no flavor, and it is just a sloppy a mess.
the perfect lasagna
11/06/2007 at 05:15am
User: JEN from vancouver, null User Rating:
it is perfect taste to me and my finacee. its not too rich but yet it is very flavorful. but i made a little change to the recipe. to brown the beef, i put some italian seasoning. herbs and red pepper flakes and it is delightful. and i guess because my baking dish is slightly bigger. i needed to extend my cooking time to make it all heat through. but overall, it is a classic italian dish that you need to try!!! sooo good.
You go girl!
10/30/2007 at 07:34pm
User: Stephanie from Elmira, NY User Rating:
I have made lasagna many times over the years, but this was a different rendition of one of my favorite dishes. My husband loved it! It was very creamy and flavorful. Top notch Giada.
Disappointing
10/30/2007 at 12:17pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I am a Giada fan and have made several of her recipes, always with fantastic results. I was shocked, then, when I made this lasagna and it seemed to have no flavor whatsoever. I don't think I have ever eaten anything this bland; the dish literally tasted like nothing. From the bechamel, to the meat, spinach, and ricotta layers, this lasagna was lacking flavor in every aspect. If I make it again, and that's a big if, I would definitely look for ways to step up the flavor and the seasoning!
Classic Sensation
09/11/2007 at 05:29pm
User: Michelle from Westernville, NY User Rating:
This recipe was the most delicious lasagna I've ever had!! Thank you!
the best
08/07/2007 at 01:29pm
User: Patti from Hyde Park, NY User Rating:
this is hands down the best lasagna I've ever made or eaten. yum,yum,yum. very labor intensive, but worth every minute
Pretty good
08/04/2007 at 06:13pm
User: Andrea from Dublin, CA User Rating:
It may have had a little too much spinach for my taste, but other than that, I thought this lasagna was pretty good. Next time I might cut back on the spinach a little, but at a little more tomato sauce b/c that's just my personal preference. But overall, it was very enjoyable!
Very time consuming!!!
08/03/2007 at 08:56pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
There were some positive things about this recipe but overall I have to say that it was a disapointment. It is different and the simple tomato sauce is nice. This recipe is an all afternoon affair if you make the red sauce as she suggests, my husband helped me and it took us three hours which does not include the baking time. Not to mention the one hour clean up. I would say that we know our way around the kitchen so I know it had nothing to do with our skill level. I would never make this recipe again some recipes are worth slaving over the stove for, this one is not! I cannot believe the time frames that are listed and the difficulty level is rated easy they are way off. This was very medeocre.
Classic Italian Lasagna (I dont know)
07/29/2007 at 03:18pm
User: jimmy from wilmington, NC User Rating:
Classic Italian Lasagna is not prepared with a Bechamel Sauce: Look up the history of Bechamel Sauce: and it did not come from Italy. but it is a good recipe,thanks I will enjoy it.Jim
Quick & Easy
07/22/2007 at 12:16am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
Very simple to make. Great compliment with the spinich in the Lasagna.
Fantastic! The recipe in Giada's cookbook differs slightly from recipe online-Please Read!
07/16/2007 at 04:28pm
User: KELLY from BONITA SPRINGS, FL User Rating:
I made this lasagna last night for the first time for my boyfriend and myself, and it was so fantastic! I read the reviews here today, and I felt awful for the people who had bad results, because I realized there might be a mistake in the online recipe. I used the recipe directly from Giada's cookbook, and although you make about 4 cups of the bechamel ahead of time, the lasagna recipe in the book only requires 2 1/2 cups, mixed with the 1 1/2 cups marinara. This could be a VERY good reason that some people found it bland, or had a ton of sauce left over. Although there will be some bechamel leftover, you can save it to use for another recipe later in the week. I didn't have a ton of time, so I used a jar of roasted garlic pasta sauce, which was great with the bechamel! I also used Barilla no-bake lasagna noodles, which are such a time saver. They are shaped slightly differently than regular lasagna noodles, so use as many as you need to cover eaach layer. I also used fresh spinach (I hate the taste of frozen, and it always seems to be wet and soggy). I didn't follow any measurement on this-I simply tore up the leaves and sprinkled just enough to lightly cover the layer, as that's enough for my taste. I also only used about 3/4 of the ricotta, and I think it really only needs 1-2 eggs or it is really wet. I added some garlic and parsley to the ricotta as well. I baked the lasagna at 375 for about an hour, then I took off the foil and turned the heat up to 425 for about 5 minutes, and it came out perfectly golden and bubbly. For anyone that had less than desirable results, please try some of these changes, and I really think you might change your mind. My boyfriend and I had some of the leftovers today for lunch and it was still fantastic! We did warm up some extra pasta sauce on the side, as leftovers tend to dry out. I hope this was helpful! Giada, your recipes are always a delight! Thanks!
Disappointing
06/27/2007 at 10:06pm
User: Joey from Pittsburg, CA User Rating:
This lasagna took a long time to make, involves a lot of not-so-everyday-ingredients (most of which are rather expansive!), and the result turn out just so-so. One complaint I got the most: not tomato-ish enough.
Don't forget to blanche your spinach.
06/06/2007 at 01:55am
User: emily from streamwood, IL User Rating:
One thing. Don't use frozen spinach. I tried this recipe twice. One time I used fresh Spinach and didn't blanche it. That was pretty stupid. The bottom of my gorgeous and otherwise perfect lasagna was all soggy. The second time I made it, I tried frozen spinach like the recipe calls for, and you could taste that grocer's freezer staleness. It wasn't pretty. A few tips: -If you double the size of the lasagna, you don't have to double the amount of sauce you make. If you do, you'll have sauce for a long, long time. -Speaking of sauce, start it that morning. The longer it simmers, the better. -Mix in a little more red sauce somewhere in the middle. The Bechamel on its own can be a little bland. -Top with bechamel for a beautiful blonde effect. It looks nothing like the frozen lasagna we tend to be used to, and your guests will be wowed by the presentation.
Fantastic
05/21/2007 at 08:45pm
User: Nicola from Tucson, AZ User Rating:
I loved this lasagna. I have never tasted anything like it. It took forever to make but I felt it was worth it. My neighbor said it was the best she ever tasted. My boyfriend though it was alright, he prefers pasta with tomato sauce. I thought the mixture of the two sauces made it so creamy.
HOLY SMOKES!
05/11/2007 at 11:36am
User: AMANDA from Bedford, NH User Rating:
This is FABULOUS! My father made it and shared it with me. I LOVE IT! It's the best lasagna I've ever had...the spinach is a really nice touch!
Best Lasagna!
05/06/2007 at 06:52pm
User: Brittany from University Park, PA User Rating:
This is wonderful! I liked it best the next day after the sauce had a chance to thicken and all of the wonderful flavors became one.
Great, hearty dinner
04/29/2007 at 09:31pm
User: Matt from Sumter, SC User Rating:
While it took me quite a while to completely finish the recipe, it turned out great. My lasagna took a bit longer to cook than the recommended time, and I used pork sausage to give it a bit more flavor. I recommend turning on the broiler when you take the foil off to crust the cheese up a little faster. The sauce was awesome.
okay
04/25/2007 at 08:56pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I didn't love this recipe. I've had better lasagna. But my family really enjoyed it. Took advice from others and added more seasonings-- it needed it.
Amazing
04/25/2007 at 03:25pm
User: Alia from Washington, DC User Rating:
As if made to be eaten at a resaurant.... very light and tasty... Thank you
Delicious
04/14/2007 at 01:28pm
User: DAVID from Jacksonville, FL User Rating:
Simply and utterly delicious.
Fantastic!
04/08/2007 at 07:35pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
Really enjoyed this lasagna recipe. As far as the comments went: 1. My roux was runny until I let it cook for about 12 minutes. I have a feeling that's what happened if it went runny... it was the consistency of frosting when I finished. 2. It isn't bland if you put PLENTY of salt and pepper into the roux. I made the following changes: 1. Omitted nutmeg (I hate it) 2. Added more red sauce than called for (approximately 3 cups)-- I just used store bought. 3. I used about 3 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese. YUMMMYYY!!!!!!!!
ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!!
04/07/2007 at 12:45pm
User: Maryanne from Cahoonzie, NY User Rating:
This lasagna is by far the best I have EVER had in a very, very long time. It just tastes so fresh and rich. It is has a very different (read: fantastic) taste from our "americanized" versions that are out there. It has that "old time" italian flavor. YUMMY!!!!
yum!!
04/06/2007 at 04:30pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
This is the best lasagna I've had in a long time. Whenever I go anywhere, everyone always asks if I will make this lasagna!!
Awesome Lasagna
04/03/2007 at 11:12pm
User: Melodie from Pewaukee, WI User Rating:
This is the first time I ever made lasagna from scratch. I was awesome and my family loved it. They also loved that fact that the sauce was homemade. Having the spinach made it seem really healthy. This is definitely a great recipe.
yummy.
03/23/2007 at 12:43pm
User: Brooke from Burnsville, MN User Rating:
we add red pepper flakes for a little extra kick. definitely craveable.
not for kids
03/21/2007 at 11:20am
User: JUlia from Glen Allen, VA User Rating:
it's a good recipe for real italian, but if you're cooking for kids, the one on the box of lasagne noodles it a better bet. sad but true!
i love it
03/19/2007 at 09:49pm
User: jose from san antonio, TX User Rating:
unique
Excellent
03/10/2007 at 08:52pm
User: SCOTT from Taunton, MA User Rating:
I made this lasagna the other day and it came out fantastic. Very tastey. I've never made a lasagna with bechamel sauce before nor have I ever layered the ingredients in the same manner that Giada does but I'll be making my lasagna this way from now on. The only alterations I made are that I added more tomato sauce to the bechamel sauce and added fresh chopped parsley and basil as well as some freshly grated parmesan to the ricotta mixture. CAUTION: I believe the recipe on food network is wrong. I made this from Giada's cookbook "Everyday Italian" In that recipe, it calls for 2 1/2 cups of bechamel sauce.....NOT the entire quantity that the recipe makes. The recipe on the website gives one the impression that ALL of it is used. ONLY USE 2 1/2 CUPS!!
Couldn't get enough!
03/10/2007 at 04:07pm
User: Jason from Denver, CO User Rating:
This lasagna took a while to make, although not too long. The taste is smooth and delicious. I was hoping for more spice in this, but it actually tastes great without much. Like that is the plan.
Wonderful
03/05/2007 at 02:31pm
User: natalia from fairfax, VA User Rating:
By far the best lasagna i have tried. My boyfriend begs me to make this, he really could eat this everyday for dinner.
We couldn't get enough
02/20/2007 at 10:21am
User: SARAH from suffern, NY User Rating:
This was a great recipe! So delish! The only thing that was a little unclear, this was my first time making lasagna, I had so many left over lasagna sheets, so I would double up a couple next time. I love the bechamel sauce, and the spinach was an excellent touch!
just like moms
02/12/2007 at 03:17pm
User: Eugene from Coconut Creek, FL User Rating:
This is all most as good as my wife mothers who is from the boot. (had to say all most)
Delicious Lasagna
02/11/2007 at 05:37pm
User: LAUREN from Douglasville, GA User Rating:
This was to die for. I knew that if I picked one of Giiada's receipes for Lasagna that it would turn out heavenly. But I did change 2 things, I used half the amount of spinach and added sliced zuchini between the layers. It was wonderful, will definitely make again.
Perfect!
02/07/2007 at 04:49pm
User: veronica from burbank, CA User Rating:
We made this lasagna for our dinner party and it was a hit. It was not a cheesy-goey kind but more light with the perfect flavor. Definitely going to make this again!
Recipe looked good, but....
01/15/2007 at 12:07pm
User: John from Oak Park, CA User Rating:
I have to agree with the many other reviews that said this recipe was bland. The textures were good and I used my own tomatoe sauce recipe, but it was not significantly different from the sauce recipe this recipe included. I'd experiment with this one some more, but with all the good lasagna recipes out there why bother?
Dinner with friends
01/15/2007 at 09:16am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I made this for a dinner party with friends and it was a hit! The prep time takes a while, but it is worth it! I made a few adjustments- used seasoned crushed tomatoes... also used a combo of ground sirloin and veal. It is very rich and everyone loved this dish-
Excellent
01/14/2007 at 07:40am
User: Sue from Hutchinson Island, FL User Rating:
Great recipe. Easy to make, especially if you make Simple Sauce day before. The sauce is tasty, lasagna does need a little more flavoring, but that's easy to do to personal tastes. Will now be only way we make lasagna. And I'm Italian!!!!!
Tweek a bit and enjoy!
01/06/2007 at 09:04pm
User: Heather from Columbus, OH User Rating:
I made a few changes to this recipe. i used 1 lb. ground turkey and 1/2 pound turkey sausage, i used store brought spaghetti sauce, i used 1-1.5 cup of flour to make my sauce thicker, i added mozzarella/parmesan cheese to my ricotta mixture,and i used 10oz. spinach(put into a food chopper). It was delicious!
Great food for family & company
01/06/2007 at 05:12pm
User: Ann from Little River, SC User Rating:
This recipe was some what easy but alot of detail. Family and friends loved the dish. It was very different lasagna for the southern table.Serves 12 and would be great for a dimmer party. Ann North Myrtle Beach
Excellent
01/02/2007 at 01:23pm
User: Alex from Swampscott, MA User Rating:
Very good recipe. After tasting bechamel and tomato sauce I realized more salt is in order, so I added a little bit more. I did it with chicken groud, instead of beef and I came out great. Not bland at all.
WOW - a real crowd-pleaser!
01/01/2007 at 11:50pm
User: Sarah from Warren, MI User Rating:
I cook often, but hosted my first "real" dinner party last night for new year's and decided to make this since lasagna can be made ahead of time. It was a total success! My friends absolutely loved it. The bechemel sauce and tomato sauces together are wonderful. The bechemel lends a lot of richness to the dish. I made my two sauces the night before and then refrigerated them. I also used ground turkey since I don't really eat red meat and it turned out fantastic. I have no idea why the average rating is only 4 stars--this is definitely some of the best lasagna I've ever made and I've made many different varieties. I served this with Giada's Italian Caesar salad for a nice complement. Keep in mind that this yields FAR greater than 6 servings...at least 8, and this are still very large pieces. Definitely give this one a try--you won't be disappointed!
Bland flavor, and a LOT of work
01/01/2007 at 10:08pm
User: PENNY from Washington, DC User Rating:
This was my first foray into making lasagna, and I have to say it was a letdown. First, the tomato sauce was very sharp, and I had to add some sugar to make it palatable. I didn't understand the concept of adding unsalted butter to make the flavor better. Second, the spinach didn't add anything. It was bland. The bechamel was very good, esp with the tomato sauce added, which is why I gave this 2 stars instead of 1. The beef was bland, and the ricotta + eggs was also bland. It was certainly edible, but my partner put a lot of Old Bay on his, and I went wild with the garlic salt + parsley (Lawry's). If I were to make this recipe again, I would make my own sauce, mix it with the meat, and probably add spinach and maybe mushrooms to it. I would probably jazz up the ricotta with some garlic, but otherwise leave the bechamel alone. Also, the quantities in this recipe more than overwhelmed my 9x13 pan. I didn't use half the noodles, and I had leftovers of everything. Giada's one of my favorites, but this one was not one of her best.
Fantastic with a few modifications
12/30/2006 at 11:27pm
User: Jen from Seattle, WA User Rating:
This was SUCH a great lasagna. I am a huge fan of bechamel in lasagna and really enjoyed the flavor combo of the cream sauce and tomatoes. I made a couple modifications to add flavor: Used a spicy tomato sauce, used hot italian sausage instead of beef, and added more salt than called for. It was marvelous!
best lasagna ever
12/30/2006 at 07:03pm
User: lissa from linthicum, MD User Rating:
this recipe is the best lasagna ever! I've never tasted any, either homemade of in a restaurant that was better.
delicious
12/23/2006 at 06:33pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I was hesitant to try the recipe I have to tell you it is the best lasagne we have ever eaten..oops It is almost as good as Il'fornaio in Irvine Ca. you must start early in the day to prepare the ingredients and we cooked it almost an hour longer than the recipe required and broiled it at the very end to crisp it up a tad! It is a winner!
Best lasagna recipe!
12/21/2006 at 07:33am
User: HEATHER from Hackettstown, NJ User Rating:
This is the best lasagna recipe EVER! It takes more time than the average red sauce lasagna, but it's so worth it!
great
12/13/2006 at 11:34am
User: joey from spirit lake, IA User Rating:
This was very good my son of 3 even liked it. I used 1/2 as much of the spinach. Will make it for the in-laws, yes I like the in-laws.
Delicious!
11/30/2006 at 08:56pm
User: Yvonne from Nedrow, NY User Rating:
This is one of the best and easiest lasagna recipes I have ever used. The only changes I made was to use my own homemade sauce and the meats I had cooked in it cut into bite size pieces (meatballs, italian sausage and pork)for the meat layer. I adore the sauce... so creamy and the separate layers are a definite plus and lots of gooey cheese! Excellent!
Great Classic Lasagna!
11/30/2006 at 01:50pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I really like this recipe. I have entered into my "signature dishes." I like to make large amounts of certain "comfort foods," and freeze them, so I don't have to cook all the time. This is the perfect dish for this purpose. I made the lasagna about 3 weeks ago about and froze it, took it out today. I microwaved it and and it takes great! Its a great dish for this purpose
too light red in color
11/19/2006 at 10:02am
User: Jane from Glasgow, KY User Rating:
I have made lasagna for years & wanted to try a different receipe. It was not runny, perhaps d/t beating eggs before mixing with ricotta cheese which I knew to do. However I was disappointed in the color of the red sauce which resembled tomato soup. It tasted fine but I prefer the rich dark red sauce of other receipes.
All wet
11/19/2006 at 04:02am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I left out the spinach because it sounded quite dredful. It turned out really soggy. I guess that was the main bad part.
UNEDIBLE LASAGNA
11/08/2006 at 10:07pm
User: Gabriel from Minneapolis, MN User Rating:
Do not use Giada's recipe for lasagna!!...The sauce is far too bland...and...NEVER use frozen spinach...it's literally unedible...By far the worst recipe I've ever received off of foodnetwork.com...just a warning...
Not good at all
11/07/2006 at 09:48am
User: Katie from North Charleston, SC User Rating:
My family and I hated this recipe. It was pretty bad. I have been disappointed with Giada's books and ended up selling them on Ebay. Oh well!! Live and learn.
The Best Lasagna I've Ever Made
11/06/2006 at 07:43pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I'm not sure how anyone can claim this lasagna had no flavor! C'mon, Bechamel sauce with homemade tomato sauce added to it? WOW. My husband didn't care for the spinach, but even so, he graded this recipe an A-. I thought the spinach was a nice sneaky way to get the kids to eat something green. Mine was also not runny at all. It was perfect! Not sure how this is considered "classic lasagna" since I have never had lasagna prepared this way but it was easily the best one I've ever made. Thanks Giada!
Disappointment italian
11/05/2006 at 10:29am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
A great disappointment. Absolutely no taste. Expensive to make which would not be a problem if it tasted like the photograph looks. All at our table were politely eating but the general concensus was this is not a recipe to repeat. Was there something left out of the list of ingredients in terms of spices/flavourings??? Also the amount of ingedients did not fit into a 9x13 pan.
lasagna
10/24/2006 at 04:02pm
User: maria from modesto, CA User Rating:
I was good. I have had better.
Scrumptious!
10/16/2006 at 10:03pm
User: Christy from Damascus, MD User Rating:
I got this recipe out of the everyday italian cookbook and it turned out perfectly! It seriously looked just like it did in the picture! I definitely recommend this recipe to anyone!
not very good
10/02/2006 at 02:19pm
User: Craig from jefferson city, MO User Rating:
I felt that the combination of the flavors was not very good and the spinach and bechamel sauce both made this dish even worse.
Fabulous Lasagna
10/01/2006 at 06:21pm
User: DEBRA from New York, NY User Rating:
This is the best lasagna recipe ever and it is very easy to make; just time consuming but worth every moment. Thank you so much for the recipe. Debra
Yummy!
09/26/2006 at 04:11pm
User: Trish from Stamord, CT User Rating:
Everyone loves when I make this! It's delicious!
Very good, though I'd use fresh spinach
09/17/2006 at 05:11pm
User: Adriel from Mesa, AZ User Rating:
Awesome flavor,and makes enough to feed an army (be prepared for leftovers). Like I said above try it with fresh spinach and you may get an awesome minor variation.
Tasty
09/16/2006 at 08:47am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I have to say that so far, this is the best lasagna from Giada's recepies. It's a typical Italian lasagna I have to say it's almost like eating my Nonna's home-made recepie!!! Thanks for sharing great authentic italian recepies.
lasagna-gina
09/15/2006 at 10:31pm
User: janet from chula vista, CA User Rating:
very good--substantive, typical of Gina's Food.
wow
09/13/2006 at 05:28pm
User: Kaitlyn from Wilmington, IL User Rating:
wow it was the best thing i have ever tried
perfect.
09/09/2006 at 04:00pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
Added a little basil and oregano to the sauce.Because it is a SIMPLE sauce.Ended up looking and tasting PERFECT.
Good but...
08/29/2006 at 11:59am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I don't know, the sauce was a bit sweet for my taste. But it was definitely good and I would make it again with a few tweaks.
CLASSIC LASAGNA??
08/26/2006 at 11:00pm
User: BRANNON from payson, AZ User Rating:
would a real italian not know you should never par cook your lasagna sheets or add eggs to your ricotta!! to get a firm dense lasagna do not cook your noodles, add raw and the noodles will soak up the extra moisture from the cheese. eggs in lasagna is for amatures
Time consuming
08/26/2006 at 01:32pm
User: Kristy from Murrieta, CA User Rating:
This recipe was very time consuming and didnt have too much flavor. It was very bland.
Great lasagna!
08/25/2006 at 12:46pm
User: Jessica from Montgomery, AL User Rating:
This was so good, made great leftovers too. Be sure to season it well, the spinach layer really needed salt.
The world's best lasagne
08/20/2006 at 11:26am
User: SALLY from Boern, TX User Rating:
Great flavor, mellowed by the white sauce, loved by adults and kids alike. Great for potlucks because it holds up so well. It is not a runny or sloppy lasagne and cuts into squares well. Make the tomato sauce and freeze what you don't use, because it's worth the effort.
Plain
08/19/2006 at 11:53am
User: Sarah from Palm Harbor, FL User Rating:
This recipe had no flavor, it was very plain! I would suggest cooking the spinage in garlic for some added flavor. I also had to make extra sause just to get some flavor. PLAIN, PLAIN, PLAIN ans WAY TOO MUCH SINIAGE
pure heaven
07/25/2006 at 07:03pm
User: stacey from scottsdale, AZ User Rating:
O MY GOD!!! THE best lasagna ever. I made it for my friends and family and they all loved lt!
Light and Delicious
07/22/2006 at 06:46pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
My husband and I were getting tired of the "traditional" lasagna that we had been making. We found this recipe a nice change of pace using the Bechamel sauce with the spinach. Delicous!!
did not like the bechamel sauce
07/18/2006 at 11:45am
User: Nikki from Newhall, CA User Rating:
I felt that the bechamel sauce made this dish taste like a hamburger helper, except with a lot more work! I prefer the classic red sauce
Good but, ive had better
07/12/2006 at 10:01pm
User: Melissa from Mary Esther, FL User Rating:
This was very time consuming, Maybe im more a fan of the typical meaty and saucier lasagna. Im not sure why it's named "classic", Ive never been to Italy so it could be classic over there. Over all, I don't think I would make this again.
UnBeliveable!
07/11/2006 at 07:17pm
User: Kathy from Valdosta, GA User Rating:
This has got to be the easiest and yet most delicious Lasagna recipe I have ever tasted. My husband, who is not a person who normally likes Italian food, completely enjoyed this devouring 2 helpings and wanting to take the rest to work.
Nice recipe for a first timer.
06/29/2006 at 08:27pm
User: Becca from Hood River, OR User Rating:
This was my first time ever trying to make lasagna. It not only turned out great, but wasn't very hard to follow. I'll be making this again.
Worth the effort!!!
06/29/2006 at 06:11pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
This was my first time making Lasagna. It took me longer because I made the "simple tomato sauce" to go with it. ( I added some red wine and flat leaf parsley instead of Bay leaves. It's now my favorite red sauce...) My husband adores lasagna, and he LOVED this recipe. It's very filling, but it's not as heavy as other lasagnas. You'll be proud of yourself making this!!
Spinach???
06/22/2006 at 05:04pm
User: frances from odessa, TX User Rating:
I have never made a dish with spinach. Never liked it as a child. But in this dish it dont even taste like I thought it would. Loved it and my kids also did too.
Light and Delicious
06/19/2006 at 09:26am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
It was very light and tasty. It took a long time to prepare everything but it was worth it. It is best to make the sauces a day before...that way it doesnt take so long. My husband doesnt even really like lasagna but I have already made this one twice!
best ever
06/12/2006 at 05:11pm
User: Sherry from Greensboro, NC User Rating:
My husband hates lasagne, but raved over this! it is to die for!
Okay
06/02/2006 at 06:26pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
Everything was good except the ground beef wasn't too good and it probably would have tasted better with more marina sauce and less bechamel sauce.
taste good, but you'll regret it later
06/01/2006 at 05:46pm
User: Katie from EVANSTON, IL User Rating:
I made this for dinner last week and it was tasty. Very flavorful with the creamy tomato sauce but I got a tummyache from it. It think it is a little too rich for me.
The best ever Lasagna
06/01/2006 at 05:37pm
User: Judith from Palestine, TX User Rating:
I have been making lasagna for over 40 years for my husband, family and friends. I must say I have a great reputation for the dish. However, this dish garnered rave reviews from husband and family. My husband said it was the best I had ever made. After over 40 years of marriage I consider that a great compliment.
Vegetarian Version
06/01/2006 at 02:56pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
I use the crumbled tofu you find in the produce section, it's a big hit.
Awesome!
05/27/2006 at 12:15am
User: Glory from Gales Ferry, CT User Rating:
Loved the recipe but we are not spinach lovers. I did put it in but next time i will alter that ingredient. Loved the bechamel sauce and i finally learned how to make gravy or tomato sauce.
Thank you, Giada!
05/26/2006 at 01:00pm
User: Erica from Parma, OH User Rating:
I'll never worry about making another watery lasagna again thanks to Giada's bechamel secret! I added some cooked portabellas to mine. DELICIOUS!
lasagna
05/24/2006 at 08:26pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
the dish was a snap to put together. and even the picky one ate it with relish. no leftovers here, the rest is in the lunch box for tomorrow.
OK Flavor
05/22/2006 at 04:13pm
User: Matt from Apple Valley, MN User Rating:
I must say that I was REALLY disappointed in this lasagna, but that could be due to my expections being high. I am a HUGE lasagna fan, and this one, well, I didn't like the flavors. It didn't do it for me. I love spinach, the sauce, beef, etc., etc., but the flavor of this dish didn't suit me. Sorry for the 2 stars.
Sorry, not good at all
05/20/2006 at 10:00am
User: Dawn from Saratoga Springs, NY User Rating:
I can't tell you how much I wanted to like this lasagna! Perhaps mostly because it was so time consuming to make. But in all honesty, it went down the garbage disposal. After having read the reviews, I was concerned that it would be too bland, so I tried to add flavor wherever I could, but to no avail. I didn't even make the tomato sauce (I would have been REALLY ticked if I had invested the time in that) but rather used Bertolli jarred tomato & basil sauce. I added a can of diced tomatoes and some oregano & basil to the meat to help that a little. Other than this, I followed the recipe exactly. What a major disappointment. Even with my short cut with the jarred sauce, it took me almost an hour to put this disaster together. I don't recommend this recipe at all.
great lasagne
05/14/2006 at 02:09pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
The sauce is amazing!
Worth the time and effort!
05/07/2006 at 02:14pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
It takes awhile to put this dish together, but once you've tasted it, it will become your staple lasagna recipe. It also freezes quite well and you can enjoy it for weeks to come.
a little bland and a bit more meat
04/26/2006 at 12:19am
User: Julie from Prairieville, LA User Rating:
The whole thing was kind of bland. Maybe add some more herbs or basil to the sauce. It also could've used a lot more meat. Maybe two layers of meat instead of one. It was huge too. I had to freeze half of it. My boyfriend and I don't eat much.
Great
04/10/2006 at 01:34pm
User: Shannon from Ephrata, PA User Rating:
It was delicious
Italian favorite
03/23/2006 at 03:35pm
User: Jose from San Antonio, TX User Rating:
Adding muushrooms enhances flavor combination
Mmmm
03/12/2006 at 06:59pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
yummy!
LOVED IT!
03/07/2006 at 04:26pm
User: Kari from Owensboro, KY User Rating:
I am a huge lasagna fan, and was a little nervous about adjusting the ingredients I normally use! This recipe was worth the risk! My family and I ate it all and we'll be having it again soon!
Not For Beginners
03/05/2006 at 06:10pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
This was my first lasagna and it was long, hard and the recipe layout was confusing. Make Sure To Make The Tomatoe Sauce FIRST. I followed the recipe as it showed and made the bechamel sauce first. The tomato recipe makes way too much sauce, and wasn't worth all of the time, buy from the store. I would also mix some of the tomato sauce with the burger, add more flavor. Overall it tasted OK but did not meet my expectations, not for how much the ingredients cost me. Try to add flavor to the spinach layer, garlic or anything, by the time you get to that layer it gets sorta bland. Make sure to squeeze the spinach well. My boyfriend however loved this recipe.
Very Tasty
03/03/2006 at 01:36pm
User: erin from chino valley, AZ User Rating:
this is a great tasting lasagna recipe my husband comes from a italian background and he loved how the lasagna had spinach in it, although his mom never made it that way. The only thing i noticed was when i took out of the oven it was a little soupy like and i thought i got all of the water out of the spinach, any tips?
Great I'da
03/02/2006 at 01:13am
User: Anonymous User Rating:
Some of the items I am going to be taking out, I did not like the way you had it, but it was a GREAT items..
love
03/01/2006 at 06:21pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
i love food
Stick with your mom's recipe
02/21/2006 at 08:46pm
User: Mary from Brattleboro, VT User Rating:
Too much spinach...I think one package would be enough. It's definitely a little dry and flavorless. With a little tweaking it might be a good recipe. I might try it again maybe with more tomato sauce, less bechamel sauce and less spinach.
Worth the time!
02/17/2006 at 10:34pm
User: Kelly from Seminole, FL User Rating:
This was very time consuming, as I did make the tomato sauce, but it was so good. There was a lot of sauce left over, but I'm glad to have it to use later. I had read the reviews RE: not having enough bechamel sauce so I increased by using 4 1/2 cups milk, 3/4 c flour and 2 cups of tomato sauce. All in all, it was fantastic, and was well worth all my efforts (approximately 4 hours in the kitchen, including interruptions from children & some clean-up).
Very dreamy!
02/12/2006 at 03:01pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
Very easy to make and very dreamy! I loved it and I am Italian!
Loved it!
02/06/2006 at 05:03pm
User: Ekaterina from Lafayette, IN User Rating:
Great, delicious meal. This recipe yields enough to feed a whole army :), so next time I will have to cut it in half (at least).
Perfect Lasagna
02/05/2006 at 10:08am
User: Tina from Rochester, NY User Rating:
This was the best lasagna I have ever tasted. The simple tomato sauce was just right and it had so many flavors! I can't wait to make it again!!
Great flavor and texture!!!
01/30/2006 at 04:28pm
User: Jim from Coon Rapids, MN User Rating:
I did use Italian Sausage instead of Hamburger..............Try it.
A Family Favorite
01/25/2006 at 11:29pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
My family often asks for this on special occassions though, it is so good, don't wait that long! Elegant & delicious, it's also great for company.
Dissappointed
01/23/2006 at 10:33pm
User: DIANE from Sunnyvale, CA User Rating:
I was surprised how bland this recipe was.
Needed more flavor
01/20/2006 at 03:23pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
My family enjoyed this, but I thought it needed more flavor. It was very bland, in my opinion.
Pretty good
01/17/2006 at 03:06pm
User: Andrea from Houston, TX User Rating:
This was tasty but a blander lasagna than I am used to.
Crowd Pleaser
01/02/2006 at 02:15pm
User: Erica from Austin, TX User Rating:
I made this lasagna and brought it to a friends house for a New Year's Eve party, and everyone loved it! The only criticism is it needed more salt. I felt like I put a lot of salt in as I was making it, but the finished product was still needed more. However, the sauce was creamy and all the flavors blended together. I will definitely make it again, but I won't be afraid to add some flavor.
Delicious
12/23/2005 at 04:20am
User: Nicole from Costa Mesa, CA User Rating:
It takes a while to make this, but well worth it and it makes plenty for two meals.
Dissappointed
12/03/2005 at 01:00pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
Very time-consuming and the outcome was not worth it. I've had and made better without all the work.
Fantastic
12/02/2005 at 11:57am
User: ROYANN from vista, CA User Rating:
I loved this, after reading the reviews I did make a few adjustments. I added red wine to the sauce, roasted garlic to the spinich, and substituted spicy Italian sausgae for the ground beef. It was delicious last night for dinner, I can't wait to see how it is for lunch today. This is worth the time investment.
Excellent & Different
11/29/2005 at 07:27pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
This lasagna was really good and different from the typical lasagna recipe. It would be perfect to make for company...easy and elegant! Thanks Giada.
Too bland
11/19/2005 at 02:01pm
User: Anonymous User Rating:
Preparation was easy, but not much flavor.
Food Taste
11/18/2005 at 09:26pm
User: Karla from Hurlburt Field, FL User Rating:
I found this recipe to be very bland. Even the Simple Tomato Sauce had very little taste. When the lasagna came out of the oven and sat for several minutes before serving, it was extremely runny. My guests didn't know whether to eat it with a spoon or a straw. I think 4 cups of Bechamel Sauce mixed with 1-1/2 cups of tomato sauce is way too much. If I made it again, I'd cut way back on the amount of sauce and not use the Simple Tomato Sauce found in the recipe.
Good standard recipe
11/07/2005 at 11:34am
User: terence from New York, NY User Rating:
Good dependable recipe for Lasagna.
Spinach made this dish
10/30/2005 at 03:32pm
User: TOM from wake forest , NC User Rating:
The spinach is what makes this dish. I have tried subing the spinach for other things like sausage and more hamburger, but the spinach is the way to make it. This is by far the most yummy lasagna I