Heidi'S Mother'S Lasagne
Heidi's Mother's Lasagne features rich layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheeses, and savory tomato sauce, creating a hearty Italian-inspired dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 1 chopped onion ⓘ
- parsley ⓘ
- 2 cloves garlic ⓘ
- 2 (6 oz.) cans tomato paste ⓘ
- 1 large can tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1 large carton cottage cheese
- 1 small carton cottage cheese ⓘ
- 1 medium can tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1 large box cooked wide egg lasagne noodles ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. oregano ⓘ
- 18 oz. Jack cheese, grated ⓘ
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Add all other ingredients except cheeses and noodles to the meat mixture.
- Simmer the sauce for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
- Layer in two 9 x 14-inch dishes: start with noodles, then sprinkle with Jack cheese.
- Add cottage cheese and meat mixture layers alternating with noodles and cheeses.
- Repeat the layering process.
- Sprinkle plenty of Parmesan cheese on top of each casserole.
- Bake until heated through and cheese is bubbly, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers. If you're short on time, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter version. Fresh parsley can enhance the dish's flavor, and you can also use store-bought marinara sauce for a quicker prep. For variations, browse more Italian recipes that suit your palate.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this lasagna with a fresh green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or a side of Italian Mushroom Soup can complement the dish nicely. For a festive touch, consider pairing it with a glass of Chianti. This hearty meal is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, offering a warm and comforting experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. This dish freezes well, too, for up to 3 months, just ensure it's tightly wrapped.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Heidi'S Mother'S Lasagne contains roughly 661 calories, with 21g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (83% of the Daily Value), calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 568mg 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 a day in advance. Prepare it up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats thoroughly. This is a great way to save time on busy days.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
If you prefer a creamier texture, you can substitute ricotta cheese for the cottage cheese. Additionally, for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can work well, although it will change the flavor slightly. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. You can also use lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative to add protein. The sauce can remain the same, and you'll still get a delicious outcome.
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).