Easier-Than-Lasagna
A comforting baked pasta dish with rich tomato sauce, creamy cottage cheese, and melted cheeses, perfect for a hearty family meal or casual get-together.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and water; simmer for 30 minutes.
- Cook spiral pasta until tender and drain.
- Combine cooked pasta with the tomato sauce and cottage cheese, stirring well.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with Brick or Jack cheese and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use ricotta cheese in place of cottage cheese. You can also add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition. If you're short on time, pre-cooked pasta can be a great shortcut. Don’t hesitate to adjust the herbs based on your taste preferences; fresh herbs can elevate the dish significantly.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For added flavor, consider serving with a drizzle of pesto or a side of roasted vegetables. It also makes a great option for potlucks or family gatherings, alongside Italian recipes like Rotini Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easier-Than-Lasagna contains roughly 832 calories, with 19g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (117% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (72% of the Daily Value), and calcium (71% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1753mg per serving (76% 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 use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spiral pasta is recommended for its texture, you can substitute with penne or any other pasta shape you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure it's cooked al dente before mixing it with the sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking as directed.
Can I freeze the Easier-Than-Lasagna?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
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).