Celia'S Lasagna
A hearty layered lasagna featuring savory beef, rich tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and tender noodles—perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, salt, and pepper until cooked.
- In a saucepan, mix the tomato juice, tomato paste, cream of mushroom soup, celery salt, and sugar.
- Add the browned ingredients to the sauce and simmer until thickened, approximately 3 hours.
- Boil 10 to 12 lasagna noodles for 8 minutes, then drain and rinse.
- In a 13 x 9-inch pan, layer sauce on the bottom, followed by noodles, sauce, cheese, noodles, sauce, cheese, and noodles until all are used.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30 minutes covered with foil, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil to the sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, swap half of the hamburger for ground turkey or chicken. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Make sure to let the lasagna sit for about 15 minutes after baking for easier slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Celia's Lasagna pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier feast, serve alongside Italian recipes like Chicken Thighs Mozzarella. A glass of red wine can also enhance the flavors and make it a special occasion dish.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, cover the lasagna tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil to prevent drying out, heating for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Celia'S Lasagna contains roughly 427 calories, with 20g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value), calcium (33% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 964mg per serving (42% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the lasagna up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
Can I freeze the lasagna?
Yes, Celia's Lasagna freezes well. After assembling, cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, simply add about 30 minutes to the baking time, and it’s best to bake it covered until heated through.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
You can customize this lasagna by using different cheeses like ricotta or parmesan, or by substituting the meat with sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option. Adding layers of roasted vegetables can also enhance flavor and texture.
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).