Lasagna(Student Favorite)
A hearty, cheesy lasagna layered with savory meat, creamy cottage cheese, and melted mozzarella, perfect for family dinners and gatherings with rich Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef slowly in a skillet.
- Spoon off excess fat and rinse the meat.
- Add garlic, basil, salt, canned tomatoes, and tomato paste to the meat.
- Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook lasagna noodles in boiling water until tender, about 10 minutes; drain and rinse.
- Combine cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley flakes, and beaten eggs.
- Place half of the cooked noodles in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Spread half of the cottage cheese mixture, half of the mozzarella slices, and half of the meat mixture over the noodles.
- Repeat layers with remaining noodles, cottage cheese mixture, mozzarella, and meat.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before cutting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of sugar to the sauce if the tomatoes are too acidic. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the meat with sautéed mushrooms or lentils. For quicker prep, use store-bought marinara sauce or browse more Italian recipes for variations.
Serving Suggestions
This lasagna pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A light red wine, such as Chianti, complements the flavors well. For added texture, serve with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top. Try it with Ann Mathney'S Lasagna for another delightful twist on a classic.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 3-5 minutes, depending on your microwave's power.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lasagna(Student Favorite) contains roughly 546 calories, with 29g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (189% of the Daily Value), calcium (98% of the Daily Value), and protein (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1416mg per serving (62% 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 lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze lasagna?
Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
You can substitute ricotta cheese for a creamier texture. If you prefer a lower-fat option, use Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of milk to achieve a similar consistency. This will still give you that creamy layer without compromising flavor.
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).