I remember the first time I stumbled across Jamie Oliver’s Creme Fraiche Lasagne recipe. It was a chilly evening, and I was looking for something comforting to cook. I’d seen Jamie’s shows before, and his recipes always seemed so vibrant, yet so simple. I was drawn to this particular lasagne recipe because it was different-no bechamel sauce, just creamy creme fraiche for that velvety texture. Intrigued, I decided to give it a shot.
As I stirred the sauce and layered the ingredients, I realized something profound. Cooking isn’t just about following a recipe-it’s about creating a dish that makes people feel at home, filled with warmth, and all the good things that food should bring. That night, I experienced just that: a lasagne that was rich in flavor, easy to make, and truly comforting.
Jamie Oliver’s Creme Fraiche Lasagne Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s Creme Fraiche Lasagne is a game-changer. It takes the traditional lasagne and switches it up by using creme fraiche instead of the usual bechamel sauce. This creates a dish that’s a little lighter but still packed with all that creamy, cheesy goodness. What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make without sacrificing flavor. You don’t need to be a master chef to nail it.
I’ve made this several times now, and it’s been a crowd-pleaser every single time. Whether it’s a family dinner or a small gathering, people always go back for seconds (and thirds). I even once made this for a friend who claimed she didn’t like lasagne, and after one bite, she was hooked.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this lasagne to life:
- Olive oil: This will be your base for sautéing. It gives depth and richness.
- Ground beef or pork: For that hearty, meaty filling. I usually mix both to balance out the flavors.
- Onions, garlic, carrots, and celery: The classic mirepoix that forms the foundation of the sauce.
- Canned tomatoes: I always opt for good quality tomatoes-San Marzano are my go-to.
- Tomato purée: For extra depth of tomato flavor.
- Herbs (basil, oregano, thyme): These bring a beautiful aroma and flavor profile to the sauce.
- Creme fraiche: The star of the dish. This is what makes the lasagne creamy but without the heaviness of traditional bechamel.
- Lasagne sheets: Fresh is best if you can get it, but dried works just fine.
- Cheese (parmesan and mozzarella): For that oozy, melty layer on top.
It’s a simple list, but it’s packed with flavor. And trust me, the combination of these ingredients creates something magic.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Creme Fraiche Lasagne
Now that you’ve got your ingredients, let’s dive into how to make this lasagne:
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Prepare The Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
- Sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Add the ground meat. Brown it until it’s cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Stir in the canned tomatoes, tomato purée, and your herbs. Let it simmer for at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld together. I usually let mine simmer longer for an even richer flavor.
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Layering The Lasagne
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, spread a little of the meat sauce on the bottom.
- Layer the lasagne sheets on top. Then add a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of creme fraiche, and some grated mozzarella.
- Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of meat sauce and a generous sprinkling of parmesan.
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Bake
- Cover the lasagne with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
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Rest And Serve
- Let the lasagne rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set.
And just like that, you’ve got yourself a delicious, creamy lasagne that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
There’s some serious magic going on with these ingredients, especially the creme fraiche.
- Creme Fraiche: It’s richer and tangier than sour cream but not as thick as mascarpone. The fat content gives it that velvety texture, and the slight tang balances the richness of the meat and cheese. It’s a win in any creamy dish but especially lasagne.
- Olive Oil: The heart of the sauce. Olive oil not only adds flavor, but it also helps to carry the fat-soluble flavors in the meat and tomatoes.
- Lasagne Sheets: Whether fresh or dried, the texture of the pasta is key. Fresh lasagne sheets soak up the sauce, adding layers of flavor, while dried pasta holds its structure, creating those satisfying bites.
Expert Tips
- Make Ahead: This lasagne only gets better after a day or two. Make it the night before and let the flavors develop overnight. When you bake it the next day, the result will be even more intense.
- Be Generous with the Cheese: You can never go wrong with extra cheese, especially when it’s as gooey and melty as mozzarella. Don’t hold back when it comes to the parmesan on top.
- Use a Large Pan for the Sauce: A big pan will help you cook the meat evenly and reduce the sauce better. This helps concentrate the flavors.
- Resting is Key: Let the lasagne rest after baking. It allows the layers to firm up, so you don’t end up with a saucy mess when you slice it.
Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up a little? Here are a few ideas to keep things interesting:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the meat for roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms. You can even add spinach for an extra green boost.
- Spicy Touch: Add a little chili or red pepper flakes to the sauce to give the dish a kick.
- Different Cheeses: If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the mozzarella for ricotta or goat cheese. Both bring a different creaminess to the dish.
Final Words
This lasagne has everything you want in a comforting dish-rich, creamy, and satisfying. And with that twist of creme fraiche, it feels a bit lighter and fresher than the typical lasagne, without sacrificing flavor. It’s a dish that brings people together and makes you feel like you’re eating something special, even on a regular weeknight.
FAQs
What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Crème Fraîche Lasagne Different From Traditional Lasagne?
The use of crème fraîche in the sauce makes it creamy and tangy, adding a unique twist compared to the usual béchamel or ricotta layers.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Crème Fraîche Lasagne Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can assemble it the day before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
Can I Use A Substitute For Crème Fraîche In The Recipe?
You can use sour cream or mascarpone as a substitute for crème fraîche, but it will slightly change the flavor.