Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a twist on a classic comfort food, Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce is an absolute must-try! This irresistible bake layers thin slices of savory ham and nutty Gruyère with perfectly cooked lasagna noodles, all enveloped by a luscious homemade Mornay sauce. The flavors meld together with each bite, delivering a rich, velvety, and hearty dish that hits all the right notes of nostalgia and gourmet flair. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or looking to wow guests, this recipe promises to become a beloved favorite around your table!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce plays a starring role, bringing out depth, creaminess, and the perfect hint of savory smokiness. Gather these straightforward staples and let them work their magic together!

• Lasagna noodles: Choose regular or no-boil; their sturdy layers soak up all the creamy sauce while holding the lasagna together beautifully.
• Thick-sliced deli ham: Smoky and juicy, good-quality ham adds that signature savory twist and hearty texture.
• Gruyère cheese: Melts like a dream, offering a gentle nuttiness that complements the ham and sauce perfectly.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, umami-packed bite right to the top for irresistible golden bubbling.
• Butter: The base of Mornay sauce, giving it richness and a silky finish.
• All-purpose flour: For thickening the sauce, so it clings to every layer and never turns runny.
• Whole milk: Creates a smooth and luscious backbone for the Mornay sauce.
• Nutmeg: Just a pinch—adding a gentle warmth and depth that’s classic for creamy sauces.
• Kosher salt and black pepper: To balance flavors and let each ingredient shine.
• Fresh parsley (optional): For a bright, herbal pop of color when serving.

How to Make Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by boiling your lasagna noodles according to package directions if you’re not using no-boil sheets. While they cook, shred the Gruyère and Parmesan, and slice your deli ham into manageable pieces. Having everything ready and at arm’s reach makes assembly a breeze and ensures nothing gets overcooked or forgotten.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Mornay Sauce

In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbling but not browned. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a pale roux. Gradually whisk in the milk in steady streams, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Off heat, stir in the Gruyère until melted and velvety, then add a touch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. This sauce is the soul of your Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce—don’t skimp!

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna

Spoon a thin layer of Mornay sauce onto the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking. Lay down a layer of noodles, followed by ham, a few generous spoonfuls of sauce, and a scattering of Gruyère and Parmesan. Repeat these layers until you run out, finishing with a flourish of sauce and a final snowcap of cheese. Every layer should feel a little decadent and evenly distributed for those perfect forkfuls later.

Step 4: Bake Until Bubbling and Golden

Tent the dish loosely with foil and bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 15–20 minutes until golden brown on top and the edges are bubbling. Letting it rest for 10 minutes before slicing allows everything to set up beautifully—a key step for neat slices and maximum flavor impact.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired and serve up generous squares of Melty Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce. Savor the stretchy cheese, creamy sauce, and the way the smoky ham pops with every bite!

How to Serve Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives adds a welcome burst of color and flavor right before serving. For a little zip, try a few turns of freshly cracked black pepper or a dash of grated nutmeg over the top for extra aroma—it’s a simple touch that makes the dish feel special.

Side Dishes

This rich, satisfying lasagna pairs beautifully with crisp, simple salads—think baby greens tossed with lemon vinaigrette or a plate of roasted asparagus for crunch and freshness. For a heartier feast, serve with garlic bread or a platter of marinated tomatoes to round out the meal in true comfort-food style.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce for a crowd, try baking it in individual ramekins for single-serve joy. For brunch, slice it into smaller squares and offer it alongside fruit salad and a bubbly mimosa. You can even double the recipe and serve two pans—one classic, and one with extra veggies layered in for variety.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled to room temperature, cover the lasagna tightly with foil or transfer slices to airtight containers. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to four days, making an easy, crave-worthy lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Freezing

Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce freezes beautifully! Wrap baked (or unbaked) lasagna tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating to keep the sauce smooth and the flavors fresh.

Reheating

To reheat, place slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20–25 minutes. A splash of milk or cream spooned over the top helps restore creaminess if needed. For quick meals, microwave individual portions, covering them to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese besides Gruyère?

Absolutely! While Gruyère delivers classic flavor and texture, Swiss or Fontina are excellent substitutes, as is a blend of your favorite good-melting cheeses. Just aim for cheese that melts smoothly for that signature creamy bite.

Is it possible to prepare this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce up to a day in advance and refrigerate it, covered. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.

What’s the best ham to use?

Choose a high-quality, thick-sliced deli ham without excess water or added sweeteners. Smoked ham lends an extra depth, but black forest or honey ham will both work beautifully, depending on your flavor preferences.

Can I add vegetables to the layers?

Of course! Sautéed spinach, roasted mushrooms, or thinly sliced zucchini make excellent additions. Just keep in mind to cook off any excess moisture to protect the creamy Mornay sauce and prevent a soggy lasagna.

How do I avoid runny sauce or watery lasagna?

Be sure to thicken your Mornay sauce until it coats the spoon before layering, and drain any cooked noodles well. Allowing the baked lasagna to rest before slicing helps everything set for layers that hold together perfectly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to shake up your lasagna routine, you’ll fall in love with Ham & Cheese Lasagna with Creamy Mornay Sauce. It’s a hearty, crowd-pleasing recipe that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new—so gather your ingredients and treat yourself to something extra special tonight!

Print