Candy'S Lasagna(Recipe Originated With Candy Stotts, Spring Hill, Florida)

Prep: 20 min Cook: 35 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: Italian

A hearty, cheesy lasagna with rich meat sauce and creamy cottage cheese layers, perfect for family dinners and gatherings that satisfy every palate.

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Ingredients

  • 3 lb. ground chuck
  • 1 large jar Ragu sauce
  • 2 big tall cartons small curd cottage cheese
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup Mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup Colby cheese
  • 1 Tbsp. parsley

Instructions

  1. Brown ground chuck and add Ragu sauce.
  2. Mix cottage cheese, eggs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and spices.
  3. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
  4. Layer noodles, cottage cheese mixture, meat sauce, and cheeses in a baking dish.
  5. Make two layers of each, ending with cheese on top.
  6. Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes or until browned.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider using ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese. If you're short on time, pre-cooked lasagna noodles can save you some hassle. You can also add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. Experiment with different cheeses; a blend of mozzarella and provolone can enhance the flavor. This dish also holds up well for gatherings, much like other Italian recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Candy's Lasagna pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a light antipasto platter for added variety. This dish also works great for meal prep, as it can be frozen and reheated later. For dessert, try serving Raspberry Peach Tiramisu to round out your Italian feast.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the lasagna with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. For best texture, avoid microwaving as it can make the pasta chewy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Candy'S Lasagna(Recipe Originated With Candy Stotts, Spring Hill, Florida) contains roughly 494 calories, with 27g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (195% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 55g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

494 kcal 25% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 27g 54% DV
Total Fat 12.1g 16% DV
Carbs 97g 35% DV
Fiber 54.7g 100% DV
Sugar 5.3g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 364.1mg 16% DV
Potassium 2863.7mg 61% DV
Cholesterol 46.6mg 16% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 138.9mcg 15% DV
Vitamin C 32.4mg 36% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 2000mg 100% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

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 and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

What can I substitute for ground chuck?

If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of ground chuck. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat for added protein without the meat.

How do I know when the lasagna is done baking?

The lasagna is done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. You can also insert a knife into the center; if it comes out hot, the dish is ready. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape.

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).

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