Louise'S Makeshift Lasagna
A comforting layered lasagna featuring rich tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, and savory ground beef, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together Ragu sauce, hot water, minced parsley, oregano, basil, and garlic powder and let stand.
- Cook ground beef until browned, stirring to crumble.
- Add chopped green pepper and sauce mixture to the beef and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Cook pasta shells in a rectangular pan with hot sauce.
- Layer cooked pasta and sauce mixture in a baking dish, sprinkling grated Mozzarella cheese between layers and on top.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top of the assembled lasagna.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until bubbly and cheese is melted and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your lasagna, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce mixture. If you're short on time, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked Italian sausage for a spicier kick. You can also use a mix of cheeses, like ricotta or cheddar, to add complexity. This recipe is great for using up leftover ingredients from Italian recipes or beef recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this lasagna with a simple side salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar to balance the richness. Garlic bread pairs wonderfully, allowing you to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider a light dessert like sorbet or fruit salad. This dish can also be enjoyed alongside other comforting meals like Lazy Day Lasagne Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. For best results, you can also microwave individual portions on medium heat until hot, ensuring the cheese remains melty.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Louise'S Makeshift Lasagna contains roughly 445 calories, with 38g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (206% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (145% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (90% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 498mg per serving (22% 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 assemble the lasagna in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making for an even tastier dish.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of the lasagna for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, or bake directly from frozen, adding additional time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for mozzarella, try using provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses. Ricotta could also be used in combination with other cheeses for a creamier texture. Just ensure you maintain the overall balance of flavors in your lasagna.
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).