Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce

Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce

If you love classic lasagna but want something a little different from the traditional tomato-and-beef version, this Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce is a rich, comforting alternative. Layers of tender pasta sheets, savory ham, and gooey melted cheese are wrapped in a velvety Mornay sauce that makes every bite indulgent and satisfying.

This dish is perfect for using leftover ham, especially after holidays, and it works beautifully for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep.

What Is Mornay Sauce?

Mornay sauce is a classic French white sauce made by enriching a béchamel (butter, flour, and milk) with cheese. It’s smooth, creamy, and slightly nutty, making it the perfect base for this ham and cheese lasagna.

Ingredients

For the Mornay Sauce

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups warm milk
• 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• A pinch of nutmeg (optional but recommended)

For the Lasagna

• 12 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package directions, if not oven-ready)
• 3 cups diced cooked ham
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded Swiss or Gruyère cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Mornay Sauce

1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly. This forms a roux and removes the raw flour taste.
3. Slowly add warm milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5–7 minutes).
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in Gruyère, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Season with salt, white pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
7. Stir until smooth and creamy. Remove from heat.

The sauce should be thick but pourable. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of milk.

Step 2: Prepare the Noodles and Ham

• If using traditional lasagna noodles, cook them until al dente, then drain and lay flat on a clean towel.
• Dice the cooked ham into bite-sized pieces.
• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

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