Carol'S Lasagna
A hearty, cheesy lasagna layered with a flavorful meat sauce and tender noodles, perfect for family dinners and gatherings craving comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger with chopped onion, salt, and pepper.
- Add garlic powder, oregano, tomato paste, and hot water to the browned meat.
- Simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly.
- Layer cottage cheese, sauce, cooked lasagna noodles, and shredded mozzarella cheese in a baking dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture. Instead of cottage cheese, ricotta can be used for a creamier texture. If you want a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Ensure your noodles are cooked al dente so they hold up well when baked. Also, using fresh oregano can elevate the dish significantly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Carol's Lasagna with a fresh garden salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread pairs beautifully with this dish, making for a hearty meal. For a complete experience, consider offering a side of Marzetti (Lasagne) for those who enjoy exploring different Italian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover lasagna should be covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Adding a splash of water before reheating can help keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carol'S Lasagna contains roughly 460 calories, with 18g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (179% of the Daily Value), and calcium (144% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1987mg per serving (86% 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 Carol's Lasagna a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it on the day you plan to serve it, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for ground hamburger?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to hamburger. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a mix of sautéed vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms for a hearty filling.
How can I prevent my lasagna from being watery?
To avoid a watery lasagna, make sure to drain any excess liquid from your tomato paste and let the meat sauce simmer long enough to thicken. Also, using less watery vegetables and ensuring the noodles are not overcooked can help maintain the right consistency.
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).