Ladle-It-On Lasagna
Ladle-It-On Lasagna features tender pasta layered with a rich tomato sauce and cheesy toppings, perfect for comforting family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 large onion ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil ⓘ
- 1 (28 oz.) can crushed tomatoes in puree ⓘ
- 2 tsp. minced garlic
- 1 tsp. basil ⓘ
- 1 tsp. oregano ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. grated Romano or Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 12 oz. to 1 lb. mini lasagna (mafalda), cooked and drained ⓘ
- 1 1/4 cup nonfat Ricotta cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 cup shredded nonfat Mozzarella ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook the onion in olive oil until translucent.
- Add crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, basil, and oregano. Simmer uncovered for 7 to 8 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated Romano or Parmesan cheese.
- Spoon hot cooked pasta onto plates.
- Top with the tomato sauce, 1/4 cup Ricotta cheese, and 1 1/2 tablespoons shredded nonfat Mozzarella.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth, consider incorporating some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or using fresh herbs like basil and oregano instead of dried. If you want a creamier texture, mix in some cream cheese with the Ricotta. This recipe can also be adapted by using gluten-free pasta or adding veggies like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients. Explore other Italian recipes for more inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ladle-It-On Lasagna with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the presentation. This dish pairs beautifully with Italian Rice And Cheesecake for a delightful finish. Consider a glass of red wine to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the lasagna in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ladle-It-On Lasagna contains roughly 770 calories, with 20g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (73% of the Daily Value), calcium (54% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 888mg per serving (39% 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 prepare the lasagna ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for Ricotta cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for Ricotta cheese, consider using cottage cheese blended until smooth for a similar texture. You can also use mascarpone cheese for a richer flavor, or even Greek yogurt for a healthier option that maintains creaminess in the dish.
Is it possible to freeze this lasagna?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled lasagna before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.
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).