French Bread Lasagna Recipe

For a really different take on the Italian classic, Lasagna, try this unique recipe for French Bread Lasagna.  Instead of lasagna noodles, this recipe calls for half-inch thick slices of French bread.  Tell the kids you are having an international meal to really peak their interest.  Explain that lasagna is usually an Italian dish but this is made with French bread and being eaten in their American kitchen.  Have a little fun with the concept and talk to the kids about the different cultures while you enjoy this meal.


FRENCH BREAD LASAGNA


1 lb lean ground beef


1/3 cup chopped onion


1/3 cup chopped celery


2 garlic cloves, minced


14 slices french bread (about 1/2" thick)


4 large tomatoes, sliced about 1/2" thick


1 tsp dried basil


1 tsp dried parsley flakes


1 tsp dried oregano


1 tsp dried crushed rosemary


1 tsp garlic powder


3/4 tsp salt


1/2 tsp fresh ground black pepper


2 tsps olive oil, divided


3 tbsps butter


3 tbsps all-purpose flour


1 1/2 cups milk


1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese


2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese


In a skillet, brown the beef with the onion, celery, and garlic; drain well and set aside.  Toast bread and line the bottom of an ungreased 13x9x2-inch baking pan or dish with 10 of the slices.  Top slices with half of the meat mixture and half of the tomatoes.  Combine the basil, parsley, oregano, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; sprinkle half of the mixture over the tomatoes.  Drizzle with 1 teaspoon of the oil.  Crumble remaining bread slices over the top of the spices and oil.  In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the flour until smooth.  Gradually stir in milk and bring to a boil.  Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly, about 2 minutes.  Remove from the heat, stir in Parmesan cheese.  Pour over the casserole.  Top with the mozzarella cheese.  Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 40 to 45 minutes or until bubbly and cheese is golden brown.


Yield: 8 to 10 servings.