3-Cheese Lasagna In Half The Time
A quick and cheesy lasagna with rich tomato and basil flavors, layered with mozzarella and Parmesan, perfect for a hearty family dinner in less time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix tomatoes and juice with spaghetti sauce.
- Mix Ricotta cheese and basil.
- Spread 1/4 of the tomato mixture on the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Top with 4 lasagna noodles, 1/3 of the Ricotta cheese, and 1/3 of the Mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layers two more times, ending with tomato sauce on top.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes, covered.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker assembly, consider using no-boil lasagna noodles, which eliminate the need for pre-cooking. You can also substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if you prefer a lighter option. Fresh basil can be replaced with dried herbs if fresh isn't available, but use less as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lasagna with a fresh side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti, complements the rich flavors beautifully. For an Italian twist, consider pairing it with 'Penne Pasta With Vegetables' as a side dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of water before reheating can help maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 3-Cheese Lasagna In Half The Time contains roughly 463 calories, with 29g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (62% of the Daily Value), protein (59% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 773mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to remove the wrap before baking to avoid excess moisture.
What can I use instead of tomatoes?
If you prefer not to use whole tomatoes, you can substitute with a 32 oz. can of crushed tomatoes or even a store-bought marinara sauce for a smoother texture.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled lasagna before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).