The pursuit of visually stunning, delicious food is a driving force in modern cooking. The lasagna rosettes popularized by Don Angie in New York City – elegant, rolled pasta slices baked to perfection – have become a viral sensation for a reason. The dish is both beautiful and satisfying. This is how to make it at home.
The Inspiration Behind the Trend
The Don Angie version isn’t entirely novel. Variations of rolled lasagna have existed for years, with roots in the Italian rosette al forno (Modenese rosettes). These traditional versions typically feature a combination of besciamella, prosciutto, and cheeses. The modern appeal lies in the presentation: a refined twist on a classic comfort food that’s tailor-made for social media.
Why It Matters
This dish is a reminder that food is not just sustenance but an experience. The viral success of these rosettes highlights the power of aesthetics in contemporary cuisine. It’s a trend that reflects our desire for both indulgence and visual delight.
Mastering the Key Components
The foundation of great lasagna rosettes lies in three essential elements: a rich bolognese, a creamy besciamella, and high-quality pasta. While ambitious home cooks can tackle each component from scratch, smart shortcuts are perfectly acceptable – particularly when it comes to pasta.
The Bolognese Sauce
A truly exceptional bolognese is the heart of this dish. While grinding your own meat adds a layer of authenticity, it’s not strictly necessary. A combination of beef, pork, and veal is ideal, but a beef-pork blend works just as well. The key is long, slow cooking to develop deep, savory flavors.
The Besciamella Sauce
Do not underestimate the importance of a well-made besciamella. This creamy white sauce acts as both a binder and a moisture retainer, preventing the lasagna from drying out during baking. A classic ratio of 1.5 tablespoons each of flour and butter per cup of milk yields a sauce thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
The Pasta
Fresh pasta is non-negotiable. Dry lasagna sheets lack the necessary texture and flexibility for rolling. If you don’t make pasta from scratch, purchase fresh sheets from an Italian specialty shop. If you do make your own, ensure consistent sheet length for a seamless roll.
Assembling and Baking
The final step involves layering pasta, sauce, and cheese before rolling tightly like a jelly roll. Chilling the logs before slicing is crucial; this prevents the sauces from oozing out during baking.
“The result is both delicious and Instagram-worthy.”
The finished rosettes should be arranged in a baking dish, brushed with more besciamella, and baked until golden brown and bubbly. Serve immediately with extra cheese for maximum indulgence.
The effort required is significant, but the payoff – a visually striking, deeply flavorful dish – is well worth it. These lasagna rosettes are a testament to the power of food as both art and comfort.
