Gena'S Lasagna
A hearty, cheesy lasagna layered with ground beef, rich spaghetti sauce, and a blend of cheeses, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Stir in the spaghetti sauce and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and remove from heat.
- Mix the eggs, shredded Cheddar cheese, and cottage or Ricotta cheese in the bottom of a 9 x 12-inch dish.
- Pour 1 cup of the meat-sauce mixture over the cheese mixture.
- Cover the mixture with a layer of uncooked lasagna noodles.
- Pour half of the cheese mixture over the noodles, then add another layer of noodles and all remaining sauce.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 55 minutes.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese. You can also mix in some spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. To save time, use no-boil lasagna noodles. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the meat sauce. This lasagna is one of the many delicious Italian recipes you can try.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Gena's Lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A glass of red wine pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing its rich flavors. For a unique twist, consider serving it alongside a slice of Layered Italian Beef Pie for a delightful Italian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes. For longer storage, you can freeze the lasagna for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gena'S Lasagna contains roughly 594 calories, with 32g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (64% of the Daily Value), calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 750mg per serving (33% 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 store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, use sautéed vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, or try a meat substitute like lentils or plant-based ground meat.
How do I know when the lasagna is fully cooked?
The lasagna is fully cooked when the sauce is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted and slightly golden. You can also insert a knife through the center; it should come out hot without any cold layers. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
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).