Bettie Cook'S Easy Lasagna
A hearty and comforting lasagna featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, creamy cottage cheese, and melted mozzarella. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, its savory flavors and cheesy goodness make it a classic favorite that satisfies everyone.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger with garlic salt, then drain.
- Add oregano; simmer for 30 minutes.
- Combine cottage cheese and Parmesan cheese.
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
- Layer in a pan: meat, cottage cheese mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layers, ending with mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using Aunt Lucy's Spaghetti Sauce instead of the jarred option. You can also substitute ricotta cheese for cottage cheese for a creamier texture. If you prefer a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy after baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad to complement the meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top before serving adds a nice touch. It pairs beautifully with Sally's Easy Lasagne for a delightful Italian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking for temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bettie Cook'S Easy Lasagna contains roughly 459 calories, with 26g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (125% of the Daily Value), calcium (105% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (91% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 617mg per serving (27% 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 use a different type of meat in this lasagna?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger if you prefer a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, use sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach instead of meat.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the sauce?
Consider adding diced onions and bell peppers to the meat while browning for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like basil and thyme can also elevate the sauce. For a unique twist, try incorporating some Italian recipes that use similar ingredients.
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).