Jan'S Lasagna
A hearty lasagna featuring rich meat sauce, melted mozzarella, and tender noodles, perfect for family dinners and comforting gatherings with bold Italian flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 whole onion, chopped ⓘ
- 4 cloves garlic, minced ⓘ
- 1 bell pepper, chopped ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. ground round
- 1 (16 oz.) jar spaghetti sauce (garlic-herb flavor) ⓘ
- 3 Tbsp. basil ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. oregano ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes ⓘ
- 1 pkg. lasagna noodles (12 strips) ⓘ
- 1 lb. cottage cheese ⓘ
- 8 oz. mozzarella cheese, sliced ⓘ
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper until tender.
- Brown the ground round meat in the skillet.
- Stir in the spaghetti sauce and seasonings; simmer covered for 30 minutes.
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions and drain.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of sugar to the spaghetti sauce. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute cottage cheese with ricotta or Greek yogurt. Fresh herbs can also enhance the taste; try using fresh basil instead of dried. When layering, ensure to spread the sauce evenly to avoid dry noodles. For a spicy kick, increase the red pepper flakes to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This lasagna pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. Consider serving with a drizzle of Sue'S Pesto Sauce for added flavor. A glass of red wine can also complement the dish nicely. For a vegetarian option, try adding layers of roasted vegetables or spinach.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave, covered, for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jan'S Lasagna contains roughly 492 calories, with 36g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (72% of the Daily Value), calcium (54% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 970mg per serving (42% 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 prepare the lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking it straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze Jan's lasagna?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the lasagna but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then cover with aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
If you want to substitute mozzarella, try using provolone or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor. For a lower-fat option, part-skim mozzarella works well. You can also explore using vegan cheese alternatives if you are looking for a dairy-free version.
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).