Easy Lasagne I
A hearty and comforting classic lasagne layered with savory ground beef, rich cheese fillings, and flavorful sauce. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that appeal to all ages and can be prepared ahead for convenience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a 3-quart saucepan; drain excess fat.
- Add the spaghetti sauce and water to the beef, then simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Combine ricotta or cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to make the cheese filling.
- Pour about 1 cup of the sauce into the bottom of a 9 x 13 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Lay 3 uncooked lasagne noodles over the sauce, followed by about 1 1/2 cups of sauce.
- Spread half of the cheese filling over the sauce layer.
- Repeat the layers of lasagne, sauce, and cheese filling.
- Top with a final layer of lasagne noodles and the remaining sauce.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 55 to 60 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Allow the lasagne to stand for about 10 minutes before cutting to facilitate serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of beef. If you prefer a creamier filling, mix in some cream cheese with the ricotta. You can also use no-boil lasagna noodles to save time. To enhance the flavor, add Italian seasoning or fresh basil to the meat sauce. Be sure to let the lasagne rest before serving to allow the layers to set, making it easier to cut.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lasagne with a simple side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the overall Italian dining experience. For a unique twist, try serving it alongside a light tomato basil soup for a comforting combination. This dish also makes a great meal prep option for busy weekdays.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover lasagne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Lasagne I contains roughly 641 calories, with 41g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (82% of the Daily Value), calcium (79% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1298mg per serving (56% 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 cheese in the filling?
Yes, you can substitute the ricotta with small curd cottage cheese, or even mix in some cream cheese for added creaminess. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a unique flavor twist.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian lasagne, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach. You can also incorporate lentils or mushrooms for added texture and protein.
Can I freeze lasagne after baking?
Yes, you can freeze lasagne after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.
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).