Easy Ground Beef Lasagna
This easy ground beef lasagna combines savory seasoned beef, rich cheeses, and tender noodles layered to create a comforting Italian-inspired dish. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, it offers hearty flavors and a satisfying texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a saucepan; stir until crumbly and drain. Add spaghetti sauce, water, Italian seasoning, and pepper; mix well.
- Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Mix cottage cheese, shredded Mozzarella cheese, eggs, and half the Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
- Layer 1 cup of sauce, 3 uncooked lasagna noodles, 1 1/2 cups of sauce, and half the cheese mixture in a 9 x 13-inch glass baking dish.
- Repeat the layers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions and garlic to the ground beef while browning. You can substitute ricotta cheese for cottage cheese if preferred. If you're short on time, use no-boil lasagna noodles instead. To enhance the dish, add fresh herbs like basil or parsley. This lasagna pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Spaghetti Florentine for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty lasagna with a simple side salad and garlic bread for a comforting meal. A glass of red wine complements the flavors beautifully. For an Italian twist, pair it with Judy'S Italian Casserole, or enjoy it alongside a warm bowl of Savory Minestrone Main Dish Soup for a cozy dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, cover with foil to prevent drying out and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Ground Beef Lasagna contains roughly 360 calories, with 26g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 580mg per serving (25% 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?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld. If you want to freeze it, cover it tightly with foil and it can last up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
How do I know when the lasagna is done cooking?
The lasagna is done when the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown, and the noodles are tender. You can insert a knife into the center to check that it’s heated through. Allow it to rest for about 10-15 minutes before cutting to help the layers set and make serving easier.
What can I do if my lasagna is too watery?
If your lasagna turns out watery, it might be due to excess sauce or undercooked noodles. To fix this, you can let it sit uncovered in the oven for a few minutes to help evaporate some liquid. Next time, try using less sauce or draining the ground beef well after cooking.
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).