Easy Lasagne Casserole(Doris Kmiec, Brenham, Tx)
A hearty, cheesy lasagne casserole combining tender noodles, savory ground beef, tomato sauce, and creamy cheese for a comforting family meal. Its layered flavors and easy preparation make it perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying and flavorful dish everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles in boiling salted water until tender.
- Cook ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet until the beef is browned.
- Drain the cooked beef and onion mixture.
- Stir in tomato sauce and spaghetti sauce mix, then cook until thickened.
- Drain the cooked noodles.
- Combine softened cream cheese and evaporated milk in a warm saucepan until smooth.
- Stir in the cooked noodles and garlic salt.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture into a 9-inch square baking dish.
- Spread the meat mixture over the cream cheese mixture.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more cream cheese or even a splash of heavy cream to the mixture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked noodles or even substitute with whole wheat noodles for a healthier option. This recipe is versatile; you can incorporate vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, similar to what you might find in an American lasagne.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Easy Lasagne Casserole with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A fresh garden salad pairs beautifully with the dish, adding freshness and crunch. You could also complement it with a glass of red wine to elevate the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering with a damp paper towel to keep the moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Lasagne Casserole(Doris Kmiec, Brenham, Tx) contains roughly 456 calories, with 28g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 672mg per serving (29% 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 meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to beef. You can also make it vegetarian by substituting the meat with a mix of sautéed vegetables or a plant-based meat substitute, keeping the flavor profile intact.
What can I do if I don't have evaporated milk?
If you don't have evaporated milk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts of whole milk and heavy cream. Alternatively, you could use regular milk, but the consistency may be slightly thinner, so adjust as needed.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this Easy Lasagne Casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).