Best Flavorful Beef Stew – Simple Non-Alcoholic Recipe

?utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest&utm_campaign=tailwind_tribes&utm_content=tribes&utm_term=992166412_44896978_297243 This unique identifier marks what I consider one of the most profoundly satisfying and universally adored dishes: a truly authentic, slow-simmered Bolognese sauce. Imagine stepping into your home, greeted by the rich, inviting aroma of savory meat, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic herbs gently bubbling on the stove for hours. This isn’t just a sauce; it’s a culinary embrace, a journey back to the heart of Italian nonna’s kitchens, where time and patience transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Its history stretches back centuries in Bologna, Italy, where it evolved from a simple meat stew into the rich, velvety topping we cherish today, often paired with wide tagliatelle pasta. People adore this dish not only for its unparalleled depth of flavor and comforting texture but also for its ability to bring loved ones together around the table. It’s a meal that feels both special and incredibly accessible, perfect for a cozy weeknight or an impressive dinner party. Through this very campaign, identified by ?utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest&utm_campaign=tailwind_tribes&utm_content=tribes&utm_term=992166412_44896978_297243, I am absolutely thrilled to guide you through the process of creating your own magnificent batch of this timeless classic.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Bolognese Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced (about 1.5 cups)
• 2 carrots, medium-sized, finely diced (about 1 cup)
• 2 celery stalks, medium-sized, finely diced (about 1 cup)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tablespoon pre-minced garlic)
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean, for best flavor)
• 1/2 pound ground pork (or Italian sausage, casings removed)
• 1/4 cup dry red wine (like Chianti or Merlot) – don’t skip this for authentic flavor!
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (San Marzano preferred)
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup whole milk (this is a traditional secret for tenderness and richness!)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional, but highly recommended)
• For the Bechamel Sauce:
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk, warmed (important for a smooth sauce!)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
• A generous pinch of nutmeg, freshly grated if possible
• For the Lasagna Assembly:
• 1 (12-16 ounce) package no-boil lasagna noodles (or regular, cooked al dente according to package instructions)
• 16 ounces ricotta cheese, full-fat
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for sprinkling between layers and on top
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, divided (for ricotta and garnish)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 8-12 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced or shredded (low-moisture preferred for less water)

Preparing the Bolognese Sauce:

Creating a rich and flavorful Bolognese is the foundation of an incredible lasagna. This isn’t a quick sauce; it thrives on slow simmering, allowing all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully. Trust me, the patience is absolutely worth it for that authentic, deep taste.

1. Start with the Soffritto: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion, carrots, and celery. This trio, known as a ‘soffritto,’ is the aromatic base of many Italian sauces. Sauté these vegetables gently for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are softened and the onion is translucent. Make sure they don’t brown too much; we’re looking for sweetness here.
2. Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter very quickly.
3. Brown the Meats: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef and ground pork (or Italian sausage) to the pot. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and cook until it’s fully browned, about 8-10 minutes. It’s crucial to brown the meat thoroughly to develop deep, savory flavors. Drain off any excess fat from the pot.
4. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the 1/4 cup of dry red wine. Scrape the bottom of the pot with your wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits – these are packed with flavor! Let the wine simmer and reduce for 2-3 minutes, allowing most of the alcohol to cook off. This step adds a wonderful depth and complexity.
5. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. The tomato paste will add a concentrated tomato flavor. Next, pour in the beef or chicken broth. Add the bay leaves, dried oregano, and dried basil. Give everything a good stir to combine.
6. The Milk Secret: Now, for a traditional Italian touch that truly elevates the Bolognese: stir in the 1/2 cup of whole milk. Many classic Bolognese recipes call for milk, and it might seem counterintuitive with tomatoes, but it works wonders. The milk tenderizes the meat, adds richness, and mellows the acidity of the tomatoes, resulting in an incredibly smooth and balanced sauce.
7. Season and Simmer: Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add a pinch of nutmeg if you’re using it – it complements the meat and milk beautifully. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and let it cook for at least 2-3 hours, or even longer (up to 4 hours is fantastic!). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will develop and deepen, creating that rich, authentic Bolognese taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash more broth or water. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before removing from heat.
8. Final Touches: Before using, remove and discard the bay leaves. Your kitchen will smell absolutely divine! This sauce can also be made a day ahead and refrigerated; flavors often improve overnight.

Preparing the Bechamel Sauce:

Bechamel, a classic white sauce, is the creamy, velvety counterpoint to the rich Bolognese in traditional lasagna. It’s surprisingly simple to make, but attention to detail ensures a lump-free, luxurious sauce that perfectly binds our layers together. This isn’t just a cheese sauce; it’s a fundamental component that provides moisture and elegance.

1. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Make sure the butter is fully melted but not browned.
2. Whisk in Flour to Make a Roux: Once the butter is melted, add the 6 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Immediately begin whisking constantly. This mixture is called a ‘roux.’ Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, continuing to whisk, until it forms a pale yellow paste and smells slightly nutty, like toasted flour. It’s important not to brown the roux too much, as we want a white sauce. Cooking it briefly helps cook out the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually Add Warm Milk: This is where patience is key for a smooth bechamel. Gradually, a little at a time (about 1/2 cup at a time), whisk the warm milk into the roux. After each addition, whisk vigorously until the liquid is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth before adding more milk. Initially, the sauce will be very thick, almost like a paste, but it will gradually loosen as you add more milk. Using warm milk helps prevent lumps; cold milk can cause the roux to seize up.
4. Whisk Until Thickened: Continue whisking over medium heat until all the milk has been added and the sauce begins to thicken to a creamy, pourable consistency, similar to a thick gravy or heavy cream. This usually takes about 5-8 minutes after the last milk addition. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
5. Season the Bechamel: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper (or black pepper if white pepper isn’t available, but white pepper keeps the sauce visually lighter), and a generous pinch of nutmeg. Nutmeg is a traditional seasoning for bechamel and adds a subtle, warm aroma that is simply divine with cheese and pasta. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. If your bechamel has any lumps, you can press it through a fine-mesh sieve, but consistent whisking usually prevents this. Cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming if you’re not using it immediately.

Preparing the Ricotta Mixture:

While the Bolognese and Bechamel are the stars, a well-seasoned ricotta layer adds another dimension of creamy, tangy deliciousness and helps bind the lasagna together beautifully. It’s quick and easy to prepare.

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the 16 ounces of ricotta cheese, 1 large egg, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
2. Mix Thoroughly: Stir all the ingredients together until well combined and smooth. The egg acts as a binder, helping the ricotta hold its shape during baking. Set aside.

Assembling the Lasagna:

Now for the fun part – layering all these amazing components into a magnificent, towering lasagna! This is where all your hard work comes together. Get ready for a truly impressive dish. Remember, a deep baking dish is your friend here.

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. A deep dish is ideal for a lasagna with multiple generous layers.
2. First Layer – Bechamel: Spread about 1/2 cup of bechamel sauce evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This prevents the noodles from sticking and provides a moist base.
3. Noodle Layer: Arrange a single layer of lasagna noodles over the bechamel. If using no-boil noodles, they can overlap slightly. If using regular noodles, ensure they are cooked al dente and lay them flat. You might need to break some noodles to fit the edges perfectly.
4. Bolognese Layer: Spread about 1.5-2 cups of your rich Bolognese sauce evenly over the noodles. Make sure the sauce goes edge to edge.
5. Ricotta Layer: Dollop about half of the ricotta mixture over the Bolognese sauce. Gently spread it out evenly with the back of a spoon or an offset spatula. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth; it will melt and spread during baking.
6. Mozzarella and Parmesan: Sprinkle about 1/3 of your fresh mozzarella cheese over the ricotta. Then, lightly sprinkle with a little extra grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Repeat Layers: Place another layer of lasagna noodles over the cheese. Follow with another layer of Bolognese (about 1.5-2 cups), the remaining half of the ricotta mixture, and another 1/3 of the fresh mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
8. Final Noodle Layer: Add the last layer of lasagna noodles.
9. The Grand Finale – Top Layer: Pour the remaining bechamel sauce evenly over the top layer of noodles, ensuring it covers the noodles completely to prevent them from drying out. Then, generously spread the remaining fresh mozzarella cheese and a good sprinkling of Parmesan cheese all over the top. This will create a beautiful golden-brown crust.
10. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place the lasagna on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips. Bake for 30 minutes.
11. Uncover and Finish Baking: Remove the foil. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) if you want a quicker browning on top, or keep it at 375°F (190°C) for a more gradual golden crust. Continue to bake for another 20-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbly, golden brown, and the lasagna is heated through. If it’s browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil again.

Resting and Serving:

This final step is crucial for perfect slices and maximum enjoyment. Resist the urge to dive in immediately!

1. The Importance of Resting: Once out of the oven, let the lasagna rest for at least 15-20 minutes (preferably 30 minutes) before slicing and serving. This allows the layers to set, making for cleaner slices and preventing the lasagna from falling apart when you cut into it. The internal juices also redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and cohesive dish. It’s hard, I know, but trust the process!
2. Slice and Serve: After resting, slice the lasagna into individual portions. Use a sharp knife and a sturdy spatula for serving. Garnish with a little fresh parsley, if desired. This lasagna is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and some crusty bread to sop up any extra sauce. Enjoy every single glorious bite of your homemade masterpiece!

Conclusion:

Well, there you have it, my dear fellow food enthusiasts! We’ve journeyed through the steps of creating what I genuinely believe will become a cherished staple in your kitchen repertoire. This isn’t merely a set of instructions; it’s an invitation to experience the sheer joy and satisfaction that comes from preparing something truly delicious and comforting with your own hands.

Why This Recipe is an Absolute Must-Try:

Let me tell you, this isn’t just another recipe that will get lost in the shuffle of your bookmarks. What makes it truly stand out is its incredible balance of simplicity and sophistication. You might glance at the ingredient list and think, “Oh, that’s straightforward,” and you’d be absolutely right! But the true magic truly unfolds when these humble, accessible components come together to create a symphony of flavors that will surprise and delight your palate with every single bite.
It’s undeniably perfect for those bustling weeknights when you crave something profoundly comforting yet undeniably elevated, or for effortlessly impressing guests without having to spend endless hours slaving over a hot stove. The intoxicating aroma alone as it gently simmers and cooks is enough to get your mouth watering in anticipation, and that very first bite? It’s pure, unadulterated bliss – a moment of culinary contentment. This dish strikes a wonderful balance: it’s hearty and satisfying without ever feeling heavy, bursting with flavor without being overwhelming, and possesses a universally appealing quality that makes it a crowd-pleaser for almost any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef with years of experience or a passionate beginner just finding your culinary feet, this recipe offers a rewarding and incredibly delicious outcome, consistently delivering excellence every single time you prepare it. It truly encapsulates everything wonderful about the art of home cooking: warmth, an abundance of exquisite flavor, and a touch of effortless elegance that makes every meal feel special. I wholeheartedly promise you, once you try this recipe for yourself, you’ll understand exactly what I mean; it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

Unleash Your Creativity: Serving Suggestions & Brilliant Variations:

Now, while this dish is absolutely phenomenal and stands perfectly well on its own, it also acts as a fantastic, versatile canvas for your very own culinary imagination. For a truly satisfying and complete meal, I personally love serving it alongside a fresh, crisp green salad, perhaps with a vibrant, light vinaigrette to beautifully cut through the richness of the main course. Alternatively, a generous helping of creamy, dreamy mashed potatoes or fluffy, perfectly cooked rice can be absolutely divine, expertly soaking up all those glorious, flavorful juices. And for me, a basket of warm, crusty bread is another non-negotiable accompaniment – it’s utterly perfect for scooping up every last, precious drop of that magnificent sauce!

But please, don’t stop there! Think creatively about brilliant variations you can explore. Feeling a little adventurous in the kitchen? Consider adding a delicate pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of fiery cayenne pepper to introduce a subtle warmth and a gentle, exciting kick that will awaken your taste buds. For a wonderfully satisfying vegetarian twist, you could easily substitute the main protein with hearty, earthy portobello mushrooms, firm, flavorful tofu, or even a vibrant medley of perfectly roasted root vegetables, simply adjusting the cooking times as needed to ensure everything is cooked to perfection. If you’re looking to elevate it even further for a special occasion or an elegant dinner party, a delicate sprinkle of fresh, finely chopped herbs like vibrant parsley, fragrant chives, or even a tiny, aromatic sprig of fresh thyme just before serving can add a truly beautiful and sophisticated aromatic finish that will impress your guests. A final, bright squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the very end can also brilliantly awaken and brighten all the wonderful flavors already present in the dish.
This recipe is incredibly versatile, truly inviting you to experiment fearlessly and make it authentically your own unique creation. You could even transform any delicious leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any left!) into a fantastic, flavorful sandwich filling for lunch the next day, or a quick, utterly delicious pasta sauce for a speedy dinner. The culinary possibilities are genuinely endless, and that, for me, is undeniably one of the many, many reasons I adore this recipe so profoundly.

Your Culinary Adventure Awaits!

So, what are you patiently waiting for? I’m genuinely, truly excited for each and every one of you to dive headfirst into your kitchen and personally experience the immense joy and profound satisfaction that comes from preparing this incredible, heartwarming dish. Trust me wholeheartedly when I say it’s going to be an absolutely delightful journey from the very start to the very delicious finish, culminating in a meal that will undoubtedly leave everyone at your table incredibly satisfied, deeply nourished, and most likely, eagerly asking for generous seconds!
Don’t just read about this culinary delight; go forth and make it!
I truly believe, from the bottom of my heart, that sharing our wonderful food experiences makes them even more special, enriching our lives and connecting us in unique ways. Once you’ve successfully whipped up your culinary masterpiece, I would absolutely, genuinely love to hear all about your experience. What did you decide to pair it with for your meal? Did you bravely add any unique, personal twists or creative variations that made it even more special? How did your family and friends react to your delicious creation? Your invaluable insights, your personal stories, and especially your mouth-watering photos will inspire not only me, your humble guide, but also our entire vibrant and growing community of passionate food lovers.

Share your culinary triumphs and kitchen adventures with us across all your favorite social media platforms! Feel free to tag us directly in your posts, use our dedicated hashtag (which we’ll provide within the main article, of course!), and allow us to celebrate your delicious success right alongside you. Remember, every single delicious dish you lovingly create contributes wonderfully to a vibrant and rich tapestry of shared culinary experiences, and we absolutely can’t wait to see your unique, personal spin on this magnificent recipe. To help us track engagement and truly understand the specific appeal of this particular recipe, especially when it’s shared across various different platforms and communities, we sometimes utilize unique identifiers like this: ?utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest&utm_campaign=tailwind_tribes&utm_content=tribes&utm_term=992166412_44896978_297243. Think of it as a special, digital tag that provides us with valuable insights into where all the wonderful buzz and excitement is originating from! Your incredibly valuable feedback, your delightful stories, and your shared experiences are, in essence, the secret ingredients that make this community thrive and flourish. Go forth, cook with boundless passion and a generous spirit, and most importantly of all, enjoy every single delicious, memorable bite. I’m already eagerly looking forward to hearing from you and seeing your amazing creations!

Crispy Lemon Parmesan Chicken

Tender chicken breasts coated in a crispy Parmesan breading, pan-fried to golden perfection and served with a bright, zesty lemon butter sauce.

Prep Time
20 Minutes

Cook Time
25 Minutes

Total Time
45 Minutes

Servings
2-4 servings

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lb chicken breast (2 large)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 Tbsp parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
• 1/2 lemon, sliced (optional garnish)
• 2 large eggs
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt (divided)
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper (divided)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 8 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness if desired.
2. Step 2
   In a shallow dish, whisk 2 large eggs with 1 minced garlic clove, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper.
3. Step 3
   In another shallow dish, combine 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper.
4. Step 4
   Dip each chicken breast in the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off, then coat evenly in the Parmesan breading mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Step 5
   Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 4-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Remove chicken and set aside.
6. Step 6
   In the same skillet, melt 8 Tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the remaining 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute. Stir in 1/4 cup lemon juice and 1/4 cup chicken broth; simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Step 7
   Pour the lemon butter sauce over the cooked chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon slices if desired. Serve immediately.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.