Almost Lasagna
A comforting layered casserole combining seasoned ground beef, creamy cheeses, and tender noodles with a cheesy baked topping, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package directions.
- Drain the cooked noodles.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned.
- Drain excess fat from the beef.
- Add minced garlic, salt, pepper, and tomato sauce to the beef.
- Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sliced green onions, cottage cheese, and shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Place half of the cooked noodles in the bottom of a buttered 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with half of the meat sauce and half of the cheese mixture.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, meat sauce, and cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle the top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavors, consider adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the meat sauce. For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef. If you're short on time, pre-cooked noodles can save you some preparation effort. For extra creaminess, mix in some sour cream with the cheese mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Almost Lasagna with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Easy And Quick Meat Loaf for a hearty dinner spread. A side of steamed vegetables can add a nutritious touch, balancing the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or cover the entire casserole with foil and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Almost Lasagna contains roughly 477 calories, with 17g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value) and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2408mg per serving (105% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it and cover tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
Can I freeze the Almost Lasagna?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly and it will last for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the baking instructions.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for cream cheese, consider using ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor. Both options will maintain the creaminess and richness of the dish while adding a unique twist.
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).