Croatian-style Lasagne

Ingredients

While the Italian lasagne typically uses a combination of beef and pork, the Croatian version often includes a mix of beef and veal. Additionally, Croatian lasagne incorporates local spices and herbs, such as paprika and bay leaves, to add a distinct flavor. The cheese used in Croatian lasagne is usually a combination of mozzarella and Croatian cheese, such as Paški sir or Lički sir. We alse have the original recipe for Lasagne, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef 500g (1.1 lb) ground beef
• 500g (1.1 lb) ground veal 500g (1.1 lb) ground veal
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 800g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes 800g (28 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 bay leaves 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 250g (9 oz) lasagne sheets 250g (9 oz) lasagne sheets
• 500g (1.1 lb) mozzarella cheese, grated 500g (1.1 lb) mozzarella cheese, grated
• 200g (7 oz) Croatian cheese (Paški sir or Lički sir), grated 200g (7 oz) Croatian cheese (Paški sir or Lički sir), grated
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 650 kcal / 2720 KJ
• Fat: 35g (total), 15g (saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 40g (total), 8g (sugars)
• Protein: 45g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the ground beef and veal to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through.
3. 3.
   Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. 4.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
5. 5.
   In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of lasagne sheets on top, followed by another layer of meat sauce. Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella and Croatian cheese over the sauce.
6. 6.
   Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. 7.
   Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lasagne sheets — If using dried lasagne sheets, make sure to cook them according to the package instructions before layering them in the dish.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavor of the meat sauce, you can add a splash of red wine while simmering.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the meat sauce.
• Letting the lasagne rest for a few minutes after baking allows it to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
• If you prefer a crispier top, broil the lasagne for a couple of minutes at the end of baking.

Serving advice

Serve the Croatian-style lasagne hot, accompanied by a fresh green salad and crusty bread.

Presentation advice

Garnish the lasagne with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.