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Easy Lasagna

Easy Lasagna for Cozy Nights - Make Ahead and Freeze It!

This Easy Lasagna is a comforting meal perfect for any occasion, blending rich flavors and layers for a delicious dinner.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Mixture
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Consider using cottage cheese for a lighter texture.
  • 1 large Egg No suitable egg replacement is specified.
  • 8 ounces Mozzarella Cheese Shred it from blocks for optimal melting.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano can be used as a substitute.
For the Meat Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Other cooking oils may work as a replacement.
  • 1 large Yellow Onion Shallots can be a great alternative.
  • 1 pound Ground Beef Consider ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • 1 pound Ground Italian Sausage
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is preferred over powdered for better taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Feel free to use fresh herbs instead.
  • to taste Salt Adjust according to your taste preferences.
  • to taste Pepper Adjust according to your taste preferences.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth works for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 jar Marinara Sauce Rao's marinara is highly recommended for best results.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste No direct substitute listed.
  • optional Hot Sauce Can be omitted for milder sauce.
  • optional Worcestershire Sauce Can be omitted for milder sauce.
For Layering
  • 12 noodles Lasagna Noodles Use traditional noodles or swap with no-boil varieties.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Large skillet
  • Casserole Dish
  • Pot for boiling noodles

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the shredded mozzarella, half of the grated Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Stir until smooth.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for about 10 minutes, until soft and translucent.
  3. Include ground beef and ground Italian sausage, cooking until browned. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  4. Stir in chicken broth, marinara sauce, and tomato paste; let simmer for 15 minutes.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  6. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add lasagna noodles. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  7. In a casserole dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Layer noodles, cheese mixture, more sauce, and repeat, finishing with meat sauce.
  8. Cover with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake covered with greased aluminum foil for 35 minutes.
  9. Remove foil & bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden. Let rest for 15 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This lasagna can be frozen assembled but unbaked. Thaw before baking. Best enjoyed after a resting period of 15 minutes.

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