Buffet Lasagne
Buffet Lasagne features layers of seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheeses, making it a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for family gatherings and large dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 lb. ground chuck ⓘ
- 2 medium onions, chopped ⓘ
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped ⓘ
- 4 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. oregano ⓘ
- 1 tsp. basil ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 4 (8 oz.) cans tomato paste ⓘ
- 1 c. grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 c. hot boiling water ⓘ
- 2 (8 oz.) pkg. lasagne noodles ⓘ
- 2 lb. Ricotta cheese or cottage cheese ⓘ
- 1 lb. Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Brown beef with onion and garlic in a large skillet; pour off excess fat.
- Add salt, oregano, basil, pepper, tomato paste, and water.
- Simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook lasagne noodles according to package directions.
- Drain the noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the meat sauce while it simmers. You can substitute cottage cheese for Ricotta if desired, and use gluten-free lasagne noodles for a gluten-free version. Don't forget to taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For a vegetarian option, try adding layered vegetables such as spinach or zucchini, inspired by Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Buffet Lasagne is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A light dessert like Gammy'S Italian Cookies, Biscotti can make a lovely finish. Consider adding a glass of red wine to enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, making it a convenient meal option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buffet Lasagne contains roughly 996 calories, with 28g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (105% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (71% of the Daily Value), and calcium (63% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2032mg per serving (88% 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 lasagne ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lasagne a day in advance. Assemble it, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use if I don’t have lasagne noodles?
If you don't have lasagne noodles, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni for a baked pasta dish. Alternatively, zucchini slices can be used for a low-carb version, layering them just as you would noodles.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes into the meat sauce or using spicy Italian sausage instead of ground chuck. You can also serve the lasagne with a side of crushed red pepper for those who enjoy extra spice.
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).