Easy Family Lasagna
A hearty, cheesy lasagna layered with Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests craving classic Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium skillet, brown the sausage and chopped onion.
- Drain the grease and stir in the spaghetti sauce, chopped tomatoes, and Italian seasoning.
- In a greased 11 x 7-inch glass baking dish, spoon in enough sauce mixture to cover the bottom of the pan.
- Layer 3 uncooked lasagna noodles, 1/3 of the ricotta cheese, 1/3 of the sauce mixture, and 1/3 of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layering process two more times to make a total of three layers.
- Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours before baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of ground Italian sausage and lean ground beef. You can also substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if desired. To save time, you could use no-boil lasagna noodles, which don’t require pre-cooking. If you're looking for a quick meal, check out Marla Brown'S Fast And Easy Lasagna for a faster alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This easy family lasagna pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A light vinaigrette on the salad will complement the rich flavors of the lasagna. For a fun twist, serve it alongside Italian recipes like Spaghetti Ticino or a simple side of roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for a few minutes or cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This lasagna also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Family Lasagna contains roughly 1000 calories, with 83g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (166% of the Daily Value), potassium (65% of the Daily Value), and calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2201mg per serving (96% 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 prepare this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and ricotta are traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, Parmesan, or even a vegan cheese alternative if you prefer a dairy-free option.
What can I do with leftover lasagna?
Leftover lasagna can be enjoyed as is or transformed into a new dish. Try slicing it into squares and sautéing them until crispy for a unique twist. You can also add it to a salad or serve it with a side of steamed vegetables for a different 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).