Easy But Good Lasagna
A hearty, cheesy lasagna with rich meat sauce, perfect for family dinners and gatherings. Layers of noodles, cottage cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan create a comforting dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix browned hamburger with spaghetti sauce.
- Cover the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan with sauce.
- Layer uncooked lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Add a layer of sauce, then cottage cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
- Pour 1 cup of water around the edges of the pan.
- Bake for 1 hour at 350°F (175°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like oregano and basil to the meat sauce. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix some ricotta cheese with the cottage cheese. For convenience, use no-boil lasagna noodles to save time in preparation. This recipe works well with Old Fashioned Spaghetti Sauce for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this lasagna with a crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A light red wine, like Chianti, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the dish. For a cozy night in, consider enjoying it alongside Easy Italian Pork Dinner for a comforting Italian feast. This lasagna is perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or cover the baking dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy But Good Lasagna contains roughly 549 calories, with 40g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (79% of the Daily Value), calcium (58% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1208mg per serving (53% 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 assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you're ready to bake, you may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Can I use vegetables instead of meat?
Yes, you can easily customize this recipe to be vegetarian by substituting the hamburger with sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can enhance the flavor by adding your favorite Italian seasonings.
What can I serve with lasagna?
In addition to a fresh salad and garlic bread, consider serving roasted vegetables or a simple antipasto platter as sides. Pairing with a light dessert like tiramisu or panna cotta can also provide a delightful finish to your Italian meal.
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).