Introduction:
Lasagna on the Arteflame grill is a smoky, indulgent take on this classic Italian dish. By layering the lasagna in a grill-safe pan and using the pizza oven attachment, you’ll achieve a perfectly golden, bubbly top with a rich, smoky flavor infused into the sauce and cheese.
Ingredients
For the Meat Sauce:
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Filling:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
For the Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package directions)
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Extra parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill and Pizza Oven
- Light the Arteflame grill by soaking three paper napkins in vegetable oil and placing them under firewood. Let the grill heat for about 30 minutes to ensure a consistent temperature of 375-400°F. Do not place any firewood directly under where you'll be baking the lasagna for even heat.
- Place the pizza oven attachment on the grill.
Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a grill-safe pan on the medium-heat zone of the grill.
- Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Remove excess grease if needed.
- Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, and remove from heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Filling
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, Parmesan, egg, and parsley until smooth. Set aside.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
- In a grill-safe lasagna pan, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom.
- Add a layer of lasagna noodles, slightly overlapping them.
- Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of meat sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of meat sauce and mozzarella on top.
Step 5: Grill the Lasagna
- Place the lasagna pan inside the pizza oven attachment on the Arteflame.
- Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
- Use a pizza peel or heat-resistant gloves to carefully remove the pan from the grill.
Step 6: Serve
- Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with a side of grilled vegetables or garlic bread.
Tips for Perfect Lasagna
- Prevent Dry Noodles: Make sure the noodles are fully covered in sauce during assembly.
- Monitor Heat: Use an oven thermometer to maintain a consistent temperature in the pizza oven.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or smoked cheese for an extra depth of flavor.
Variations
- Vegetarian Lasagna: Replace the meat sauce with grilled vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and eggplant.
- White Lasagna: Use Alfredo sauce instead of tomato sauce for a creamy twist.
- Spicy Lasagna: Add red pepper flakes or spicy sausage to the meat sauce.
- Pesto Lasagna: Add layers of basil pesto for a fresh, herby flavor.
- Cheese-Lover’s Lasagna: Use a mix of mozzarella, provolone, and Gouda for extra cheesiness.
Pairings
- Sides: Grilled garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted asparagus.
- Drinks: Pair with a bold red wine like Chianti or a refreshing Italian soda.
- Dessert: Finish with tiramisu or grilled peaches.
Conclusion
Arteflame Grilled Lasagna is a smoky, cheesy masterpiece that elevates the traditional dish to a new level. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this lasagna is as satisfying as it is impressive.
