Parmesan perfection: can you elevate your lasagna with parmesan cheese?

Yes, you can absolutely put Parmesan cheese on lasagna. In fact, it’s a traditional topping that adds a delicious layer of flavor and texture to this classic Italian dish.

Why Add Parmesan Cheese to Lasagna?

Parmesan cheese is a hard, salty cheese made from cow’s milk. It has a nutty, slightly tangy flavor and a distinctive granular texture. When added to lasagna, Parmesan cheese melts slightly and creates a golden-brown crust on top. It also adds a rich, salty flavor that complements the other ingredients in the dish.

How to Add Parmesan Cheese to Lasagna

There are two main ways to add Parmesan cheese to lasagna:

1. Sprinkle it on top: Before baking the lasagna, sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese over the top. This will create a crispy, golden-brown crust.
2. Mix it into the cheese layer: Add some grated Parmesan cheese to the ricotta cheese or béchamel sauce layer. This will give the lasagna a more intense Parmesan flavor throughout.

Types of Parmesan Cheese to Use

When choosing Parmesan cheese for lasagna, look for a high-quality, aged Parmesan. The longer the cheese has been aged, the more flavorful it will be. You can also use a combination of Parmesan and other hard cheeses, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago.

Other Ways to Use Parmesan Cheese in Lasagna

In addition to topping lasagna, you can also use Parmesan cheese in other ways to enhance the flavor:

• In the meat sauce: Add some grated Parmesan cheese to the meat sauce for a richer flavor.
• In the béchamel sauce: Stir some grated Parmesan cheese into the béchamel sauce to make it more flavorful and creamy.
• As a garnish: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the cooked lasagna before serving for a finishing touch.

Tips for Using Parmesan Cheese on Lasagna

• Use high-quality cheese: The quality of the Parmesan cheese will make a big difference in the flavor of your lasagna.
• Grate the cheese fresh: Grating the cheese fresh will give you the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the cheese: Parmesan cheese can burn easily, so keep an eye on it while baking.
• Serve immediately: Lasagna is best served hot and fresh, so don’t let it sit for too long before serving.

Conclusion: Parmesan Cheese and Lasagna – A Perfect Pair

Parmesan cheese is a delicious and versatile addition to lasagna. It adds flavor, texture, and a touch of elegance to this classic Italian dish. Whether you sprinkle it on top or mix it into the cheese layer, Parmesan cheese is sure to enhance the flavor of your lasagna.

FAQ

1. Can you use grated Parmesan cheese on lasagna?
Yes, grated Parmesan cheese is the most common way to use Parmesan on lasagna.

2. How much Parmesan cheese should I put on lasagna?
Use a generous amount of Parmesan cheese, about 1/2 cup per 9×13 inch lasagna.

3. Can I use Parmesan cheese in the meat sauce?
Yes, adding some grated Parmesan cheese to the meat sauce will enhance the flavor.

4. Can I substitute another hard cheese for Parmesan on lasagna?
Yes, you can substitute other hard cheeses, such as Pecorino Romano or Asiago, for Parmesan.

5. What types of lasagna can I put Parmesan cheese on?
Parmesan cheese can be added to any type of lasagna, including meat lasagna, vegetable lasagna, and white lasagna.