Chili Lasagna
A hearty fusion of chili and lasagna, featuring seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and melted mozzarella, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add chopped green pepper and chopped onion to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the can of tomatoes, tomato paste, and salt. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Layer the cooked noodles, meat sauce, and shredded mozzarella in a baking dish.
- Repeat layers as desired, ending with mozzarella on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and cheese is golden.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, add some chili powder or jalapeños to the meat sauce. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Consider using no-boil lasagna noodles to save time. If you want a vegetarian version, replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms and additional vegetables, similar to what you'd find in Northern Style Lasagna.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chili lasagna with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro on top can enhance the flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Easy Man'S Lasagna for a comforting Italian-style feast.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the chili lasagna cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Lasagna contains roughly 429 calories, with 14g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value) and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1424mg per serving (62% 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 chili lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the chili lasagna a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's chilled.
What type of cheese can I use instead of mozzarella?
You can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful that the melting properties may vary slightly.
Can I freeze chili lasagna?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the lasagna but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
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).