Jamie Oliver Recipes

Jamie Oliver Creme Fraiche Lasagne Recipe

I still remember the first time I tried Jamie Oliver’s crème fraîche lasagne. I had been in a cooking rut, making the same tomato-heavy lasagne over and over. I decided to give this recipe a shot on a lazy Sunday afternoon. The smell of creamy béchamel mingling with melted cheese filled the kitchen. The first bite was like a revelation-silky, rich, and comforting but somehow lighter than the usual version. It wasn’t just a meal. It was a reminder that simple ingredients treated with care can create magic.

This lasagne is perfect for both weeknight dinners and impressive weekend feasts. It’s approachable yet elevated. It’s creamy without being heavy. It’s one of those dishes that makes people linger at the table.

Jamie Oliver’s Crème Fraîche Lasagne Recipe

I’ve made this lasagne countless times, and every iteration brings something new to appreciate. Jamie Oliver’s version is unique because it swaps the traditional béchamel sauce for crème fraîche. This adds tanginess and richness, giving a subtle sophistication. The layers of meat, cheese, and sauce are perfectly balanced. Unlike classic lasagne, this one feels indulgent without leaving you feeling weighed down.

Ingredients Needed

Before you dive in, here’s a personal tip: lay everything out first. I learned this the hard way when I realized halfway through that I forgot the parmesan.

  • 500g minced beef or a mix of beef and pork
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, finely diced
  • 2 sticks celery, finely diced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 400g tin of chopped tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato purée
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 250g lasagne sheets (fresh or dried)
  • 250g crème fraîche
  • 150g grated parmesan
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves (optional, but highly recommended)

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Crème Fraîche Lasagne

I like to think of this as a journey, not a chore. I usually play some music, sip on tea, and take it step by step.

  • Step 1: Make The Meat Sauce

    • Heat olive oil in a large pan
    • Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until soft
    • Add the minced meat and cook until browned
    • Stir in chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, oregano, salt, and pepper
    • Simmer for 20 minutes until thickened

  • Step 2: Prepare The Crème Fraîche Mixture

    • In a bowl, combine crème fraîche with half of the parmesan
    • Add a pinch of salt and pepper
    • Mix until smooth

  • Step 3: Assemble The Lasagne

    • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
    • Spread a layer of meat sauce in a baking dish
    • Add a layer of lasagne sheets
    • Spread a layer of the crème fraîche mixture
    • Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with crème fraîche on top
    • Sprinkle remaining parmesan

  • Step 4: Bake

    • Cover with foil
    • Bake for 25 minutes
    • Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbling
    • Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing

Ingredient Science Spotlight

I love understanding why this lasagne works so well. Crème fraîche is a key player here.

  • Crème fraîche vs. béchamel: It’s slightly tangy and higher in fat than milk. This creates a richer texture and prevents the sauce from separating during baking.
  • Carrots and celery: They add natural sweetness and balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
  • Parmesan: When baked, it crisps slightly on top, adding a contrasting texture to the creamy layers.

Even the smallest ingredient has a purpose. When you understand it, cooking feels like magic.

Expert Tips

From my experiments in the kitchen, here’s what works best:

  • Use fresh lasagne sheets if possible. They cook faster and absorb the sauce better.
  • Let the lasagne rest before serving. It helps the layers set and keeps slices intact.
  • Don’t skip the carrots and celery. They’re the secret to depth in the meat sauce.
  • Mix half the parmesan into the crème fraîche. It melts beautifully inside and adds flavor without overpowering.

Recipe Variations

Over time, I’ve discovered ways to tweak this dish without losing its essence:

  • Vegetarian: Swap meat for mushrooms, lentils, or roasted vegetables.
  • Cheese lovers: Add mozzarella in layers for extra gooeyness.
  • Herbal twist: Mix fresh thyme or rosemary into the meat sauce for an earthy note.
  • Spicy kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the meat sauce for subtle heat.

Final Words

Every time I make this lasagne, I feel a little proud. It’s comforting, impressive, and endlessly adaptable. I’ve served it at casual dinners and formal gatherings, and it always gets compliments. The crème fraîche gives it that signature creaminess without making it too heavy. I’ve learned that a few high-quality ingredients, layered with care, can produce something extraordinary.

FAQs

What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Crème Fraîche Lasagne Different From Traditional Lasagne?

The addition of crème fraîche gives the sauce a creamy, tangy twist that makes the lasagne lighter and smoother compared to the classic version.

Can I Substitute Crème Fraîche With Something Else In This Lasagne Recipe?

You could use sour cream or ricotta as a substitute, but the flavor and texture will change slightly.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Crème Fraîche Lasagne Ahead Of Time?

You can assemble the lasagne the day before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

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