Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce – A Comfort Food Classic

Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Ham & Cheese Lasagna

Lasagna is a beloved staple in kitchens around the world, but what happens when you swap meat ragù for savory ham and layer it with a luxurious creamy Mornay sauce ? You get a unique twist that’s both comforting and elegant — perfect for family dinners or weekend entertaining.

This Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce brings together the smoky richness of ham, the gooey goodness of cheese, and the velvety smoothness of a white béchamel infused with Gruyère or Parmesan — otherwise known as Mornay sauce . It’s a sophisticated upgrade to the classic lasagna, without being overly complicated.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive centerpiece for your next gathering, this recipe will not disappoint.

What Is Mornay Sauce?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore the star ingredient: Mornay sauce .

Mornay sauce is a variation of the classic béchamel, made by adding cheese — typically Gruyère, Emmental, or Parmesan — to a basic white sauce. It gives dishes a creamy texture and nutty flavor profile that pairs beautifully with pasta, vegetables, and meats like ham.

Why Use Mornay Sauce in Lasagna?

Adds depth of flavor compared to regular béchamel
Melts beautifully between layers
Offers a gourmet twist on a traditional dish
Perfect for those who prefer less tomato-based sauces

Ingredients for Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Mornay Sauce

To make a delicious Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce , you’ll need:

For the Mornay Sauce:

2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (warmed)
1 cup grated Gruyère or Parmesan cheese
Salt and nutmeg to taste

For the Lasagna Layers:

9–12 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or boiled)
2 cups cubed cooked ham
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh spinach or kale (optional)
Pinch of ground nutmeg
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mornay Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour to create a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Gradually add warm milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
Cook until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
Stir in cheese until melted and smooth.
Season with salt and a pinch of nutmeg.

Step 2: Boil or Prepare Lasagna Noodles

If using non-oven-ready noodles, boil them according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.

Step 3: Layer the Lasagna

In a 9×13-inch baking dish:

Start with a thin layer of Mornay sauce.
Add a layer of lasagna noodles.
Spoon more sauce over the noodles.
Sprinkle ham cubes evenly.
Add mozzarella and optional greens.
Repeat layers, finishing with a top layer of sauce and Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake lasagna uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Best Ham & Cheese Lasagna

Use quality ingredients : Fresh ham and real cheese make a difference.
Make ahead : Assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and refrigerate.
Freeze for later : Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Let it rest : Allowing the lasagna to cool slightly ensures cleaner slices.
Add veggies : Spinach, mushrooms, or caramelized onions can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

Variations & Substitutions

Looking to customize your Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce ? Try these ideas:

Vegetarian Option : Omit the ham and add roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant.
Different Cheeses : Substitute Gruyère with Cheddar or Swiss if preferred.
Gluten-Free : Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or make a lasagna roll-up version.
Spicy Kick : Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your lasagna hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Pair it with:

Garlic bread
A crisp green salad
Crusty baguette
Dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought Mornay sauce?

While homemade Mornay sauce is best, you can use a high-quality béchamel and stir in grated cheese for convenience.

Q: How long does leftover lasagna last?

Stored in an airtight container, it lasts up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.

Q: Why is my lasagna runny?

Too much moisture in the sauce or not enough baking time can cause a runny texture. Ensure the sauce is thick before assembling and bake until golden and firm.

Conclusion: Make This Ham & Cheese Lasagna Tonight!

This Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce is the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a cozy meal, this recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and ease.

Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce