Less Tomato Sauce Lasagna
A comforting lasagna with less tomato sauce, featuring tender noodles, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 box lasagna noodles ⓘ
- 2 lb ground beef
- 1 chopped medium onion
- 1 chopped large green pepper ⓘ
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1 package spaghetti sauce mix ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp garlic salt
- 1/2 tsp ground oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste ⓘ
- 1 cup cottage cheese (optional) ⓘ
- 1 package mozzarella cheese slices ⓘ
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- Dried parsley or fresh chopped parsley ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
- Brown ground beef with chopped onion and chopped green pepper until the onion is transparent.
- Drain off excess liquid from the beef mixture.
- Add tomato sauce, spaghetti sauce mix, garlic salt, and ground oregano to the beef mixture, then heat thoroughly.
- Optional: Spread cottage cheese in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Layer cooked noodles, beef mixture, mozzarella cheese slices, and Parmesan cheese in the dish.
- Repeat layers as desired, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
- Garnish with dried or fresh parsley and paprika.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like basil or thyme to the beef mixture. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can also use whole wheat lasagna noodles for added nutrition. To save time, opt for pre-shredded cheese or a blend of Italian cheeses. This dish is similar to B'S Lasagna but with less sauce for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This lasagna pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving garlic bread on the side for a comforting touch. For a heartier meal, complement it with roasted vegetables or a side of Italian recipes like Meatballs Napoli. A glass of red wine would also enhance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Less Tomato Sauce Lasagna contains roughly 447 calories, with 22g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (157% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (112% of the Daily Value), and calcium (97% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1571mg per serving (68% 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?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld. If you want to prepare it further in advance, consider freezing it before baking. Just remember to adjust the baking time if cooking from frozen.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
If you're not a fan of cottage cheese, you can substitute ricotta cheese for a creamier texture. Alternatively, blending some cream cheese with a bit of milk can provide a similar consistency and flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using blended silken tofu seasoned with a little salt and garlic powder.
How do I know when the lasagna is done baking?
The lasagna is ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C). If the cheese browns too quickly, cover the dish with foil for the remaining baking time to prevent burning.
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).