Family Style Lasagna
Family Style Lasagna features layers of savory meat sauce, creamy cheeses, and tender noodles, making it perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in oil.
- Add spaghetti sauce mix, tomato paste, and water; simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions.
- Drain noodles and cover with cold water.
- Line the bottom of a lightly oiled baking dish (11 1/2 x 7 1/2 inches) with a single layer of lasagna noodles.
- Spread 1/4 of the meat sauce over the noodles.
- Add 1/3 cup cottage cheese and 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese on top.
- Repeat layers to make 4 layers, ending with a layer of sauce.
- Top with thin slivers of Mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage. You can substitute ricotta cheese for cottage cheese if preferred. If you want a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes to the meat sauce can elevate the dish. To save time, use no-boil lasagna noodles, which don't require precooking. Pairing this with a side salad enhances the meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Family Style Lasagna with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A light vinaigrette salad pairs wonderfully, balancing the richness of the lasagna. For an Italian twist, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top before serving. This dish also pairs beautifully with Sharon'S Favorite Lasagna.
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 1-2 minutes or in an oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. This dish also freezes well; wrap portions tightly and store for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Family Style Lasagna contains roughly 819 calories, with 26g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value), calcium (47% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 721mg per serving (31% 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 a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as directed. This can enhance the flavors as they meld together overnight.
What can I substitute for the ground beef?
You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, consider using lentils or a mix of sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach to create a hearty filling.
How do I know when the lasagna is done baking?
The lasagna is done when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out hot and clean. Letting it rest for 10 minutes before serving helps the layers set.
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).