This Beef, Mushroom & Guinness Pie is a comfort food classic that combines tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and rich Irish stout, all baked under a flaky puff pastry crust. Perfect for chilly evenings or any time you’re craving a rustic, flavorful dish. Serve it as the centerpiece of a hearty meal with mashed potatoes or a fresh side salad.

This recipe became a family favourite after our family trip to Ireland

Ingredients for Beef, Mushroom & Guinness Pie

For the Filling

• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

• 1 lb cubed beef stew meat

• 3 slices bacon, chopped

• 1 white onion, chopped

• 1 carrot, chopped

• 1/3 lb crimini mushrooms, sliced

• 1 stalk celery, chopped

• 1 garlic clove, crushed

• 1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 cup Irish stout beer (such as Guinness)

• 1 1/4 cups beef stock

• 1/2 teaspoon thyme

• 2 bay leaves

• 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

• 1 teaspoon water (to mix with cornstarch)

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Crust

• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed

• 1 egg, beaten

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Sear the Beef

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

• Add the beef stew meat and brown it on all sides, about 10 minutes. Remove the beef and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Vegetables

• Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the same pot.

• Cook the chopped bacon until it begins to brown, then stir in the onion, carrot, mushrooms, celery, garlic, and a pinch of sugar.

• Sauté the vegetables until soft and lightly browned, about 10–15 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Stew

• Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir until it’s fully incorporated.

• Gradually pour in the Irish stout beer and beef stock, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.

• Add the thyme, bay leaves, and the reserved beef. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

• Cook for 1 hour and 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.

Step 4: Thicken the Stew (Optional)

• Remove the lid and increase the heat to medium.

• Let the stew boil gently for about 15 minutes to thicken slightly.

• If needed, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the stew. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes.

• Remove from heat and discard the bay leaves.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Spoon the beef and mushroom filling into a 9-inch pie dish.

• Roll out the thawed puff pastry into a circle large enough to cover the dish (approximately 10 inches).

• Lay the pastry over the filling, trimming any excess, and crimp the edges with a fork to seal. Cut two small steam vents into the top of the pastry.

Step 6: Bake the Pie

• Brush the top of the puff pastry with beaten egg for a golden finish.

• Bake in the preheated oven for 30–40 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this hearty pie with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

• Enjoy it with a glass of red wine or a pint of Guinness to complement the rich flavors.

Tips for the Perfect Beef, Mushroom & Guinness Pie

1. Choose the Right Beef: Opt for beef stew meat or chuck, as these cuts become tender when slow-cooked.

2. Don’t Skip the Stout: Guinness adds a depth of flavor that makes this dish truly special. If you prefer less bitterness, use a milder stout.

3. Customize Your Crust: Swap puff pastry for a shortcrust pastry for a more traditional pie.

4. Thickening Options: Adjust the stew’s consistency by using cornstarch, or allow it to reduce naturally for a more robust flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a perfect combination of comfort and sophistication. The slow-simmered filling becomes rich and savory thanks to the Guinness and beef stock, while the puff pastry crust adds a buttery, flaky texture. It's ideal for cozy family dinners, special occasions, or even meal prepping—you can freeze the filling for a later bake!

Final Thoughts

The Beef, Mushroom & Guinness Pie is a timeless dish that brings the hearty flavors of Ireland to your table. It’s a recipe that satisfies the soul and warms the heart, whether served for a weeknight dinner or a festive celebration. So, roll up your sleeves, grab a pint of Guinness, and savor the deliciousness of this classic comfort food!

If you're searching for the ultimate chocolate chip cookie, look no further! This recipe is hands-down the best, creating a chewy, melt-in-your-mouth experience that will have you and your loved ones coming back for more. With a few simple ingredients and a touch of cream, this cookie recipe has earned its spot as a household favorite and will likely become your go-to for all cookie cravings.

Why This Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe is the BEST

These cookies are the perfect balance of soft and chewy, with a rich, buttery flavor. The secret ingredient? A splash of cream. This small addition elevates the cookies, giving them that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth texture. While the basic recipe is delicious on its own, you can easily switch up the flavor by adding pecans, Skor bits, white chocolate chips, or macadamia nuts—whatever you prefer! No matter how you make them, these cookies are sure to become a tradition in your family.

Ingredients for the Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies:

• 1 1/3 cups butter (softened)

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup packed brown sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 2 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 tbsp cream (coffee cream or whipping cream)

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 2/3 tsp salt

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

• 1 package chocolate chips (or your preferred mix-ins)

Directions: How to Make Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

1. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy texture!

2. Add wet ingredients: Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and cream. Mix well until fully incorporated.

3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and flour. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cookies soft.

4. Add chocolate chips and nuts: Stir in the chocolate chips and any optional add-ins like nuts or Skor bits.

5. Prepare to bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your cookie sheets. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop dough onto the cookie sheet, aiming for 1 1/2-inch-sized rounds.

6. Bake: Bake for 8 minutes for the first batch, and 6-7 minutes for subsequent batches. The cookies should be golden brown on the edges, with chewy centers. The perfect cookie will still be soft in the middle when you take it out of the oven.

7. Cool and enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy with a glass of milk or just on their own—they’re irresistible!

Tips for the Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so mix just until everything is combined.

• Use cold butter: If you don’t have time to let the butter come to room temperature, using cold butter will still work—just make sure it's soft enough to mix well.

• Customize your cookies: Feel free to swap in different types of chocolate chips (dark, milk, or white chocolate) or try adding other mix-ins like dried fruit, nuts, or toffee bits.

Final Thoughts: The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies You’ll Ever Make

This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, and once you make it, you’ll see why it’s called the best! The combination of chewy texture and rich flavor makes it a standout dessert or snack, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a family gathering, or just because, these cookies will disappear quickly. Bake a batch today and discover your new favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe!

Ingredients for Easy Lamb Roast

• 1 cup lemon juice

• 1 cup white wine

• 3 teaspoons minced garlic

• 2 teaspoons rosemary

• 2 teaspoons Greek oregano

• 2-3 lb lamb roast (boneless, wrapped in twine)

How to Make a Delicious Roast Lamb

1. Marinate the Lamb: In a large Ziploc bag, combine lemon juice, white wine, garlic, rosemary, and oregano. Add the lamb roast to the bag, seal it tightly, and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. This step helps the flavors penetrate the meat, making it tender and full of flavor.

2. Roast the Lamb: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Place the marinated lamb in a small roasting pan and pour 1/4 of the marinade into the pan. Cover the pan with foil and bake the lamb for 1.5 hours.

3. Brown the Roast: After the lamb is cooked through, uncover the pan and increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Roast for an additional 10 minutes or until the lamb is nicely browned. Alternatively, you can place the roast on a preheated BBQ for a few minutes to get a grilled finish.

4. Serve and Enjoy: Once the lamb is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve with your favorite sides, like rice and steamed broccoli. For extra flavor, pair it with tzatziki sauce.

Why This Lamb Roast is So Special

This easy lamb roast is perfect for any family dinner or special occasion. The marinade of lemon, white wine, garlic, and herbs infuses the lamb with rich flavors, making it incredibly tender and juicy. The slow roasting ensures a melt-in-your-mouth experience, while the option to brown the lamb in the oven or on the BBQ gives you the flexibility to achieve the perfect crust.

Tips for the Best Roast Lamb

• Marinate for Longer: If possible, marinate the lamb overnight for even more depth of flavor.

• Grill Finish: For that authentic crispy exterior, finish the roast on the grill for a few minutes.

• Pairing: This roast pairs beautifully with classic sides like roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Final Thoughts

This easy lamb roast recipe is the ideal way to enjoy lamb at home. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a tender and flavorful roast that will impress your guests. Serve it with rice, roasted potatoes, or your favorite vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Try it next time you want a delicious and simple roast lamb that everyone will love!

Looking for a simple and hearty dinner idea? This easy and flavorful meatloaf recipe is a crowd-pleaser. With a tangy BBQ glaze, it's perfect for a comforting meal and even better as leftovers for sandwiches! Bonus: It's low on salt, making it a healthier option.

Ingredients

Meatloaf:

• 2 lbs lean ground beef

• 6 tablespoons Kraft Chicken n’ Rib BBQ sauce

• 3 dashes Worcestershire sauce

• 1 large egg

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Sauce:

• 1/2 cup Kraft Chicken n’ Rib BBQ sauce

• 2–3 teaspoons yellow mustard

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions

Prepare the Meatloaf

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.

2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, egg, and breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a spoon until evenly combined.

3. Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a small roasting pan.

Make the Glaze

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, yellow mustard, and brown sugar until smooth.

5. Generously spread the glaze over the shaped meatloaf.

Bake the Meatloaf

6. Cover the roasting pan with foil and bake for 40 minutes.

7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes to caramelize the glaze and ensure the meatloaf is fully cooked.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your meatloaf with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic dinner. Alternatively, try serving it alongside homemade macaroni and cheese, a favorite among kids!

Tips & Variations

• Leftovers: This meatloaf makes fantastic sandwiches the next day! Just slice it and layer it between bread with your favorite condiments.

• Make it your own: Feel free to swap the BBQ sauce for your favorite brand or flavor, or add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.

• Binding options: If breadcrumbs aren’t available, crushed crackers or oatmeal can work as substitutes.

Final Thoughts

This easy meatloaf recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting, no-fuss meal. The sweet and tangy glaze takes it to the next level, while its versatility makes it a staple in any home. Try it out tonight, and enjoy a dish the whole family will love!

If you're craving a comforting and savory dish that’s perfect for family gatherings, look no further than Grandma Buddy’s pierogi recipe. Passed down through generations, this pierogi combines creamy mashed potatoes, sharp cheese, and just the right amount of seasoning, all wrapped up in a tender dough. Whether you're making them for a holiday feast or just as a weekend treat, these homemade pierogi will quickly become a family favorite.  Best made with a group, and some wine for the assembly line.   We host a pierogy party twice a year to stock up the family freezers.  I am sure my beloved Grandma “Buddy” is smiling ear to ear knowing her legacy continues to her great grandchildren.

Ingredients for Pierogi Filling:

• 8-10 medium to large new white potatoes

• 3-4 cups shredded sharp (“old”) cheese

• 1 large onion, shredded (or puréed)

• Pepper to taste

Ingredients for Pierogi Wrappers:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 eggs

• 1/4 to 1/3 cup water (add in slowly and stop when firm and a little sticky but not too sticky)

Directions: How to Make Homemade Pierogi

Step 1: Prepare the Pierogi Filling
Start by peeling and boiling the potatoes until they are fully cooked. Drain and mash them until smooth. For the best results, use a Kitchen Aid mixer for a creamy texture. While the potatoes are still hot, add the shredded cheese and finely shredded onion. Mix on low-medium until smooth, and season with pepper to taste. Feel free to adjust the cheese or pepper amounts to your liking.

Step 2: Make the Pierogi Wrappers
In a mixer, combine flour and salt. In a separate bowl, lightly scramble the eggs with water. Slowly pour this mixture into the flour while mixing on low speed. Once the ingredients are combined, knead the dough by hand until it’s smooth and elastic. Divide the dough into small sections (about five portions). You can roll it out by hand or use a pasta maker for a more even thickness. Roll it thin, finishing at a setting of 5 on your pasta maker.

Step 3: Form the Pierogi
On a floured surface, use a Mason jar lid or a round cutter to cut the dough into circles. Place a heaping teaspoon of the mashed potato filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over the filling, pulling the edges slightly to pinch them together, sealing the pierogi.

Step 4: Freeze the Pierogi
To prevent the pierogi from sticking together, prepare a cookie sheet by spreading flour on it. Place the filled pierogi in lines and freeze them while you continue making the rest. Once semi-frozen, transfer them to a Ziploc bag for storage. Now, you have homemade pierogi ready to cook whenever you desire!

Step 5: Cook and Serve
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully drop in 12-15 pierogi at a time, reducing the heat to a simmer once they begin to float. Let them boil until fully cooked. For the best taste, fry the pierogi in a skillet with butter and pre-cooked bacon for a few minutes on medium-low heat until crispy and golden. Serve them with sour cream for the ultimate indulgence!

Final Thoughts:

Grandma Buddy’s pierogi recipe is a true labor of love, and the perfect dish for creating new memories with family and friends. The combination of tender, cheesy potato filling, and the crispy, buttery exterior makes each bite unforgettable. Whether you fry them with bacon or simply boil them with butter, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. And the best part? These pierogi freeze beautifully, so you can enjoy them whenever you like!

Pro Tip: Freeze extra pierogi for easy weeknight meals. Simply pop them in the boiling water and fry up when you’re ready to enjoy a savory homemade treat.

This Classic Banana Bread Recipe is a moist, flavorful, and comforting treat that's easy to make with simple ingredients. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast snack or a dessert, this recipe is versatile, delicious, and perfect for using up overripe bananas. Personalize it with optional mix-ins like cranberries, blueberries, walnuts, or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.  

We loved helping Shirley sell her home, and she quickly became woven into the fabric of our hearts.   Sadly Shirley passed away only a year after selling her home.  She is missed deeply by her neighbourhood friends and the many students she inspired over her career as a teacher.   I think of her everytime I make this recipe

Ingredients for Classic Banana Bread

• 3/4 cup brown sugar

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or a mix of oil and soft butter)

• 1 egg

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 3 to 4 overripe bananas, mashed

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Add-Ins (Choose 1 or Combine):

• 1/2 cup cranberries or blueberries

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Directions for Making Banana Bread

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease one large loaf pan or three small loaf pans and set aside.

• In a small bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.

2. Combine the Wet Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, vegetable oil (or butter), egg, and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

• Stir in the mashed bananas until well incorporated.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

4. Combine and Add Optional Mix-Ins

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet banana mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

• If desired, fold in cranberries, blueberries, chopped walnuts, or chocolate chips.

5. Bake the Banana Bread

• Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan(s).

• Bake for 40–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

• Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

• Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and natural sweetness.

• Be careful not to overmix the batter; it can result in a dense loaf.

• For a golden crust, sprinkle a little brown sugar on top before baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple and Flexible: This recipe requires just pantry staples, making it easy to whip up anytime.

2. Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins, from nuts to fruits to chocolate chips.

3. Moist and Flavorful: Thanks to the ripe bananas, the loaf stays moist and packed with natural sweetness.

Optional Add-Ins to Try

• Sweet: White or dark chocolate chips, raisins

• Nutty: Almonds, pecans, hazelnuts

• Fruity: Dried cranberries, chopped dates, shredded coconut

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy a slice warm with a pat of butter for breakfast.

• Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy snack.

• Drizzle with honey or a cream cheese glaze for a sweet dessert option.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Banana Bread Recipe is a heartfelt way to honor cherished memories while enjoying a timeless comfort food. The rich flavor, moist texture, and customizable options make it a staple in any baker’s kitchen. Whether you keep it simple or add your favorite mix-ins, it’s guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to your table.

Looking for a festive, indulgent treat to add to your holiday cookie list? This Bittersweet Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti recipe is the answer! With its rich cocoa flavor, toasted hazelnuts, and the perfect amount of sweetness, this biscotti is sure to become a holiday tradition. Even if you're not a big biscotti fan, this recipe is bound to change your mind.

These crunchy yet tender cookies are great for dipping into your favorite coffee or hot chocolate. Plus, they make a fantastic homemade gift, especially when packaged with the recipe. Here’s how to make them!

Ingredients for Bittersweet Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti

• 1/3 cup butter, softened

• 2/3 cup packed brown sugar

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped

• 4 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped

Chocolate Dip:

• 6 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped

• 2 tsp shortening

Instructions for Bittersweet Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti

1. Prepare the Biscotti Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a cookie sheet or line it with parchment paper.

In a medium to large mixing bowl, beat butter on medium-high for about 30 seconds. Add brown sugar, baking powder, and salt, and continue beating until the mixture is well combined, occasionally scraping the sides of the bowl. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by cocoa powder.

Gradually add the flour and mix until the dough is smooth. Stir in the toasted hazelnuts and bittersweet chocolatechunks until everything is evenly distributed.

2. Shape and Bake the Biscotti

Divide the dough in half and place each portion onto a lightly floured surface. Shape each half into a long roll, about 9-10 inches long and 1.5 inches wide. Place the rolls on the prepared cookie sheet, about 4 inches apart, and gently flatten them to about 2 inches wide.

Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool on the cookie sheet for about 45 minutes.

3. Slice and Bake Again

After the rolls have cooled, reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C). Slice each roll diagonally into 1/2-inch thick pieces using a serrated knife. Be careful, as the biscotti can be delicate.

Place the slices back onto the cookie sheet, laying them flat. Bake for an additional 8-10 minutes. Turn the biscotti over and bake for another 7-9 minutes, or until they are dry and crisp.

4. Chocolate Dipping Instructions

While the biscotti cools, prepare the chocolate dip. In a double boiler (or a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water), melt the bittersweet chocolate and shortening, stirring occasionally, until smooth and combined. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate and shortening in the microwave on half power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Dip one end of each biscotti into the melted chocolate and place it on parchment or wax paper. Allow the chocolate to set completely before serving or packaging.

Tips for Success

• Toast the hazelnuts: Toasting the hazelnuts before chopping them enhances their flavor and adds an extra depth of taste to your biscotti.

• Storage: Store the biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully if you want to prepare them ahead of time.

• Customization: Feel free to swap the hazelnuts with other nuts or add dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a fun twist.

Final Thoughts

These Bittersweet Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti are the perfect addition to your holiday cookie tray, or as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family. The combination of rich chocolate, crunchy hazelnuts, and a touch of sweetness is simply irresistible. Whether you're new to biscotti or a longtime fan, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your baking repertoire!

Joe Giacometti's Classic Lasagna Recipe

This month, we are excited to feature a timeless recipe from our esteemed client and long-time Sawmill Community member, Joe Giacometti. While we are sad to see Joe leave, we are honored to share his legendary Lasagna Recipe, which has graced the pages of Mississauga News and Chatelaine Magazine. This savory, comforting dish is the perfect gift for family dinners, gatherings, or special occasions.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Award-Winning Flavor: Featured in prominent publications for its authentic, rich taste.

• Perfect for Gatherings: Serves 8-12 people—a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the sauces or assemble the lasagna ahead of time for convenience.

Preparation and Cooking Details

• Preparation Time: 50 minutes

• Cooking Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

• Baking Time: 40 minutes

• Yields: 8-12 servings

Ingredients

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 carrots (finely chopped)

• 2 celery stalks (finely chopped)

• 2 onions (finely chopped)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 clove garlic (crushed)

• 3/4 lb (375 g) ground beef

• 2 cups water

• 1/2 cup white wine

• 10-oz can chicken broth (or 1 chicken bouillon cube dissolved in boiling water)

• 2 cups crushed tomatoes

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 2 cups homogenized milk

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

• 1/4 tsp salt

• Pinch of nutmeg

Additional Ingredients:

• 227-g pkg mozzarella cheese (grated)

• 9 to 12 cooked lasagna noodles

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. Finely chop the carrots, celery, and onions.

2. Heat olive oil in a wide saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the butter and let it melt.

3. Add the chopped vegetables and crushed garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly until the vegetables soften.

4. Crumble the ground beef into the pan and mix well. Stir often, cooking until the meat is no longer pink (about 5 minutes).

5. Add 2 cups of water, white wine, and chicken broth (or dissolved bouillon cube). Stir thoroughly.

6. Mix in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for about 1.5 hours.

2. Make the Béchamel Sauce

1. Heat milk in a small saucepan or microwave until warm.

2. In another saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Gradually whisk in flour, stirring constantly for 1 minute to create a roux.

3. Slowly add the warmed milk to the roux while whisking. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and comes to a boil (about 3 minutes).

4. Season with pepper, salt, and a pinch of nutmeg. The sauce should be smooth but not overly thick.

3. Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Spread a quarter of the tomato sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking pan.

3. Layer cooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.

4. Cover the noodles with 1.5 cups of tomato sauce, then sprinkle one-third of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Spread half of the béchamel sauce evenly over the layer.

5. Repeat the layers twice more: pasta, tomato sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, and béchamel sauce.

6. Finish with a layer of béchamel sauce spread over the top.

4. Bake the Lasagna

1. Place the lasagna pan on a baking sheet to prevent spills.

2. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-60 minutes, or until bubbling and golden on top.

3. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Prepare Ahead: Both the tomato and béchamel sauces can be made up to 2 days in advance.

• Assemble and Chill: The lasagna can be fully assembled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 day before baking. Just pop it in the oven when ready!

Serving Suggestions

Pair Joe Giacometti's classic lasagna with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, and a glass of red wine for the ultimate Italian dining experience.

Final Thoughts

Joe's legendary lasagna recipe is a true gift to the Sawmill Community and beyond. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or meal prepping for the week, this hearty, flavorful lasagna will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Don't forget to share your results in the comments below and tag us on social media!

Pin this recipe for later and share it with friends who love classic Italian comfort food!

Hello Everyone.

We are going to post our recipes that go out the neighbourhood monthly in one place for easy access for all to enjoy