Ham and Fontina Lasagna Recipe

Ham and Fontina Lasagna is a delicious twist on traditional lasagna, featuring layers of tender pasta, creamy ricotta, savory ham, and rich Fontina cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Here’s a recipe to make this delightful lasagna:

Ingredients:

For the Lasagna:

• 12 lasagna noodles (no-boil or regular)
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups grated Fontina cheese (or a mix of Fontina and mozzarella)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

2. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:

• If using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. If using no-boil noodles, skip this step.

3. Mix the Cheese Filling:

• In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the Fontina cheese, egg, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

4. Assemble the Lasagna:

• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
• Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce.
• Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
• Sprinkle half of the diced ham on top.
• Add another layer of marinara sauce.
• Repeat the layers (noodles, ricotta mixture, ham, and marinara) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of noodles and marinara sauce on top.

5. Top with Cheese:

• Sprinkle the remaining Fontina and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top layer of marinara sauce.

6. Bake the Lasagna:

• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray).
• Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

7. Let it Rest:

• Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will help it set and make it easier to serve.

8. Serve:

• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and serve warm.

Tips:

• Variations: You can add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the layers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Freezing: This lasagna freezes well. To freeze, wrap tightly and store for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Summary:

Ham and Fontina Lasagna is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the creamy richness of cheese and the savory taste of ham in a classic lasagna format. It’s a comforting meal that is sure to please everyone at the table!