Introduction
Lasagne, a classic Italian dish, has always held a special place in the hearts of the British public. This delicious recipe takes a traditional beef lasagne and adapts it for an air fryer, giving it a modern twist. The result is a wonderfully crispy, cheesy top with a perfectly cooked interior that's irresistible.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Air fryers are growing in popularity across the UK due to their convenience and relatively healthy way of cooking. They circulate hot air to create a crispy layer that mimics fried food, while using significantly less oil. Ideal for enhancing the top layer of your lasagne, air fryers ensure it comes out golden brown and deliciously crisp.
Ingredients
Here's a list of what you'll need to make a classic beef lasagne that's perfect for air frying:
- 500g minced beef
- 9 lasagne sheets
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400g) of chopped tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato puree
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 300ml milk
- 25g butter
- 25g plain flour
- 100g grated Cheddar cheese
- 50g Parmesan cheese, grated
Preparation Steps
1. Preparing the Meat Sauce
Begin by heating a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced beef and cook until it's browned all over. Drain any excess fat and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onions become translucent.
Next, stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 20 minutes, letting the flavours meld together beautifully.
2. Making the Béchamel Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the flour to form a smooth paste, and cook for about a minute. Gradually add the milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in half of the Cheddar cheese.
3. Assembling the Lasagne
Ladle a portion of the meat sauce into the bottom of your air fryer-safe dish. Place a layer of lasagne sheets on top, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of béchamel sauce on top.
4. Cooking in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 180°C. Sprinkle the remaining Cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top of the lasagne. Carefully place the dish in the air fryer basket and cook for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Serving Suggestions
Allow the lasagne to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This makes it easier to slice and serve. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and garlic bread, making for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Tips for the Perfect Lasagne
- Use fresh lasagne sheets if possible; they cook more quickly and evenly.
- Ensure the béchamel sauce is lump-free by whisking continuously during preparation.
- For a richer flavour, consider adding red wine to the meat sauce while simmering.
Conclusion
This beef lasagne recipe tailored for air frying delivers everything you love about the classic dish with a modern twist. It's an easy and delicious way to enjoy a well-loved comfort food. Give it a try and savour the crispy, gooey goodness that only an air fryer can achieve.