Lasagne(Very Good)
A hearty and flavorful classic lasagne featuring a rich meat sauce layered with creamed cottage cheese and Parmesan. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish offers comforting Italian flavors with a savory tomato and herb base that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 6 oz. ground lean pork ⓘ
- 3/4 c. chopped onion ⓘ
- 1 clove garlic minced ⓘ
- 1 (1 lb.) can tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. parsley flakes ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. sugar ⓘ
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. basil leaves ⓘ
- 3 c. (two 12 oz. cartons) creamed cottage cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 c. grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 Tbsp. parsley flakes
- 1 1/2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1 tsp. oregano leaves ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook and stir ground beef, ground pork, onion, and garlic in a large saucepan or Dutch oven until the meat is browned and the onion is tender.
- Drain all fat from the meat mixture.
- Add tomatoes and break them up with a fork.
- Stir in tomato sauce, parsley flakes, sugar, salt, and basil.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 1 hour or until the sauce reaches the consistency of spaghetti sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding red wine to the sauce while it simmers. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute ground turkey for the beef and pork. Fresh herbs can enhance the dish; try using fresh basil and oregano instead of dried. Make sure to layer the ingredients carefully for even cooking, and let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Serving Suggestions
Lasagne pairs beautifully with a simple side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a light vegetable dish, like roasted zucchini or a fresh tomato salad. For a variation, consider accompanying it with a glass of red wine, which complements the rich flavors of the lasagna wonderfully. Browse more Italian recipes to expand your menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. For quicker reheating, individual portions can be microwaved for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring they're heated through before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lasagne(Very Good) contains roughly 525 calories, with 29g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (129% of the Daily Value), calcium (118% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (97% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 670mg per serving (29% 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 and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying. When you're 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 cottage cheese?
If you don't like cottage cheese, ricotta cheese is a great alternative. It has a similar texture and flavor profile. For a creamier option, you could also use a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream. Adjust the seasoning as needed since these cheeses can vary in saltiness.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian lasagna, simply replace the ground beef and pork with sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers. You can also add lentils or beans for protein. Ensure to layer in plenty of vegetables along with the cheese and sauce for a satisfying dish.
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).