Rich Dill Pickle Lasagna is a bold twist on the classic comfort dish, layering tender pasta with creamy cheddar béchamel, dill-infused ricotta, seasoned beef, and tangy dill pickles. The briny bite of pickle slices melts into the rich cheese sauce, creating a surprisingly balanced combination of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors. It’s unexpected, indulgent, and guaranteed to be a conversation starter at the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creative Comfort Food – A fun, tangy spin on traditional lasagna.
- Perfect for Pickle Lovers – Dill flavor in every layer.
- Rich & Creamy Texture – Cheddar béchamel and ricotta create silky layers.
- Layered Flavor Depth – Brined noodles enhance overall tang.
- Crowd Conversation Starter – Unique dish for gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Flavors improve after resting overnight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cheddar Béchamel Sauce
- ¼ cup unsalted butter – Forms the base of the roux.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce.
- 1 cup whole milk – Provides creaminess.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Adds richness and body.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into smooth cheese sauce.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Adds subtle heat.
For the Dill-Ricotta Layer
- 24 oz whole milk ricotta (room temperature) – Creamy filling base.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ricotta during baking.
- ¼ cup fresh dill, finely chopped – Infuses herbal brightness.
- ¼ cup dill pickle brine – Adds signature tang.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the mixture.
For Assembly
- 15 oven-ready lasagna noodles – Structured pasta layers.
- 20 dill pickle stackers (or ~80 chips) – Tangy layered slices.
- ⅓ cup finely chopped dill pickles (drained) – Finishes the top layer.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided – Adds melt and flavor.
- 1 cup dill pickle brine (for dipping noodles) – Infuses noodles with flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Finely chop fresh dill and drain pickles thoroughly. Pour pickle brine into a shallow dish for dipping noodles.
Prepare the Cheddar Béchamel
Melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually add milk and cream while whisking continuously. Simmer until thickened (3–4 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Make the Dill-Ricotta Filling
In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, fresh dill, pickle brine, and salt. Stir until smooth and evenly mixed.
Layer the Lasagna
Spread one-third of the cheese sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan. Dip 5 noodles into pickle brine for 2–3 seconds each and layer on top. Spread half of the ricotta mixture, sprinkle ⅓ cup cheddar, and arrange half the pickle slices.
Repeat layers: cheese sauce, brined noodles, remaining ricotta, cheddar, and pickle slices.
Top with final brined noodles and remaining cheese sauce.
Bake Covered
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Finish and Brown
Remove foil. Sprinkle remaining cheddar and chopped pickles over the top. Bake uncovered for 8–10 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
Rest Before Serving
Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing to allow layers to set.
Recipe Notes & Tips
- Drain Pickles Well – Prevents watery lasagna.
- Whisk Sauce Constantly – Avoid lumps in béchamel.
- Dip Noodles Briefly – Softens without oversaturating.
- Use Fresh Dill When Possible – Better flavor balance.
- Let Rest Before Cutting – Cleaner slices.
- Adjust Dill if Using Dried – Use half the amount.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 30–45 minutes
- Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
- Total Time: 80–105 minutes
- Servings: 8–10 portions
- Estimated Calories: Approximately 320–400 kcal per serving (based on portion size)
Note: Full recipe estimated at 2500–2800 calories total.
Perfect Pairings
- Mixed Greens Salad with Vinaigrette – Cuts richness.
- Garlic Bread – Classic complement.
- Coleslaw – Echoes tangy pickle flavor.
- Cold Beer or Sparkling Water – Balances savory richness.
Ideal Occasions
- Potlucks & Family Gatherings – Unique crowd-pleaser.
- Comfort Food Dinner – Cozy and indulgent.
- Weekend Cooking Project – Medium difficulty.
- Make-Ahead Holiday Dish – Flavors deepen overnight.
Storage & Serving Tips
- Refrigerate Covered – Keeps up to 4 days.
- Freeze Portions – Up to 3 months.
- Reheat Covered at 350°F – 20–25 minutes chilled, 45 minutes frozen.
- Microwave Individual Slices – 1–2 minutes.
Creative Variations to Try
- Add Ground Beef Layer – For extra protein.
- Spicy Version – Add crushed red pepper to sauce.
- Swap Cheddar for Havarti – Creamier finish.
- Add Crispy Bacon Bits – Extra savory crunch.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Watery Lasagna – Drain pickles thoroughly.
- Lumpy Sauce – Whisk continuously while adding milk.
- Too Tangy – Reduce pickle brine slightly.
- Overpowering Dill – Cut back if using dried.
Why This Recipe Works
This lasagna works because the tangy acidity of dill pickles balances the richness of the cheddar béchamel and ricotta layers. Dipping the noodles in brine subtly infuses flavor throughout the dish without overwhelming it. The roux-based cheese sauce stabilizes the dairy, ensuring a smooth, cohesive texture. Baking covered first allows moisture to distribute evenly, while finishing uncovered creates a lightly browned top. The result is a creamy, savory casserole with a bright, briny twist that feels indulgent yet balanced.
Final Thoughts
Rich Dill Pickle Lasagna proves that bold flavor combinations can transform classic comfort food into something memorable. Creamy, tangy, and layered with texture, it’s a dish that surprises in the best way. Whether you’re a pickle enthusiast or just love trying new twists on tradition, this lasagna delivers big flavor and plenty of personality.
