I somehow managed to commit to two dinner parties for two separate crowds two days apart. First party is tomorrow, 12/29, and the second is New Year’s Eve, 12/31. Thinking two birds, one stone, I’ve decided to make ahead a double batch of Kenji’s no holds barred lasagna.
https://www.seriouseats.com/no-holds-barred-lasagna-bolognese-pasta-italian-homemade-ricotta.
Plan is to make at least the entire double batch of the bolognese today, Sunday, make and assemble the entire first lasagna, and bake it tomorrow for the first party.
My question is the second lasagna. Can I assemble the entire second lasagna today? If so, do I freeze it, or just refrigerate until Wednesday (3 days)?
Or, should I make the ricotta and Besciamella on Tuesday, assemble and bake on Wednesday? If so, do I freeze the bolognese in the meantime, or is fridge ok?
Thanks so much!
by elpatio6
4 Comments
I would bake them both and then reheat the second one from the refrigerator.
Absolutely. The ability to make it ahead of time is one of the best things about lasagna.
I would completely assemble it. No need to freeze if you are only storing it for 3 days. Make sure it is wrapped tightly.
When you are finally baking it, let it sit out a bit to warm up before putting it in the oven. If the top gets too dark and it’s not fully cooked, just cover it with foil.
This is exactly what I did for Christmas Eve.
Assembled, put in the fridge for a couple of days, took it out, and into the oven. It was perfect.
Yes you can and no need to bake ahead of time, I’ve done this plenty of times.