Introduction
Crepe Lasagna is a creative twist on traditional lasagna, using delicate, thin crepes in place of pasta sheets. Layers of savory ingredients, such as ricotta, mozzarella, ground beef (or another protein), and marinara sauce, come together to form a delicious, comforting dish. Perfect for those looking for a lighter, yet equally satisfying alternative to classic lasagna, Crepe Lasagna is a delicious fusion of two culinary favorites.
Ingredients
For the crepes:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk
2 large eggs
2 tbsp melted butter
1/4 tsp salt.
For the filling:
1 lb ground beef (or chicken, turkey, or a meat alternative)
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Make the crepes:
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, milk, eggs, melted butter, and salt until smooth.
Heat a non-stick skillet or crepe pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray.
Pour a small amount of batter into the skillet, swirling to coat the bottom. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the edges start to lift, then flip and cook for another 30 seconds. Remove and set aside. Repeat until all batter is used, making about 8-10 crepes.
Prepare the filling:
In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Stir in the marinara sauce, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
Assemble the lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Place a layer of crepes over the sauce.
Top with a third of the ricotta cheese, a third of the mozzarella cheese, and a third of the meat sauce.
Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing with a layer of mozzarella on top.
Bake the lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serve:
Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Description
Crepe Lasagna is a unique, indulgent dish that combines the comforting elements of traditional lasagna with the delicate texture of homemade crepes. The layers of savory meat, creamy cheese, and rich marinara sauce come together in perfect harmony, offering a lighter take on the classic Italian dish. The crepes add a soft, slightly chewy texture, making this dish both satisfying and elegant.
Tips
Make the crepes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
To ensure the lasagna slices neatly, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini.
For a creamier lasagna, mix some béchamel sauce into the ricotta layer.
To save time, use store-bought crepes or even no-boil lasagna noodles if you prefer a quicker version.
Variations
Vegetarian:
Use spinach, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables instead of meat for a hearty vegetarian version.
Chicken or Turkey: Swap out the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter, leaner option.
Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or hot sausage to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses such as provolone, gouda, or fontina to change the flavor profile.
Corrections
Make sure to cook the crepes on a medium-low heat to avoid over-browning them. The goal is a soft, tender crepe.
If the crepes are too thick or too thin, adjust the batter by adding a little more milk or flour as necessary.
Be sure to drain any excess fat from the ground meat to avoid a greasy lasagna.
Enjoy!
Crepe Lasagna is an inventive and delicious dish that brings a new spin to the classic lasagna we all know and love. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this comforting, layered dish is sure to impress. Enjoy!
