Don'S Lasagna
A hearty baked lasagna featuring seasoned ground beef, layered with melted mozzarella, cheddar, cottage cheese, and rich tomato paste, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease the bottom of a 9 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Place 3 cooked lasagna noodles on the bottom of the dish.
- Spread browned ground beef over the noodles.
- Spread tomato paste over the ground beef.
- Spread mozzarella cheese over the tomato paste.
- Spread cheddar cheese over the mozzarella cheese.
- Spread cottage cheese over the cheddar cheese.
- Sprinkle with garlic salt to taste.
- Top with the remaining 3 lasagna noodles.
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Remove from oven and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil and oregano. If you prefer a lighter option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or lentils. You can also use whole grain or gluten-free lasagna noodles for a healthier twist. For added depth, layer in sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, similar to what you’d find in Carol'S Lasagna.
Serving Suggestions
This lasagna pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a nutritious balance. For a delightful touch, consider a glass of red wine, which complements the flavors of Italian recipes. Leftovers are fantastic the next day, making this dish great for meal prep.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Don'S Lasagna contains roughly 1020 calories, with 69g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 55g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (139% of the Daily Value), calcium (101% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1914mg per serving (83% 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 Don'S Lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through thoroughly.
What other cheeses can I use in this recipe?
You can substitute or add cheeses like ricotta or provolone for a different flavor profile. Ricotta cheese adds creaminess while provolone gives a nice sharpness. Mixing in some grated Parmesan on top can also enhance the taste and create a delightful crust.
Can I freeze this lasagna?
Yes, Don'S Lasagna freezes well! After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake until hot throughout, or cook from frozen, adding extra time.
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).