Mae Oma Jones' Lasagne
A hearty and cheesy Italian lasagne layered with rich meat sauce, tender noodles, and creamy cheeses, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In hot Wesson oil in a heavy pan, cook garlic and onion until soft.
- Add ground beef and seasonings, cook until crumbly.
- Mix in tomato paste and hot water.
- Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce, then add half the noodles, all the cottage cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat with half of the remaining sauce, the remaining noodles, and mozzarella cheese.
- Top with the rest of the sauce.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like basil or oregano to the meat mixture. If you don't have mozzarella, provolone or a blend of cheeses can work as substitutes. You can also use no-boil lasagne noodles to save time. For a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables or a meat substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this lasagne with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top enhances the flavor. For a vibrant touch, consider pairing it with a side of steamed vegetables or a classic Caesar salad. This dish pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Jiffy Spaghetti Sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lasagne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, ensuring it's heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mae Oma Jones' Lasagne contains roughly 554 calories, with 17g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2362mg per serving (103% 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 this lasagne ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagne a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I do with leftover lasagne?
Leftover lasagne can be repurposed in various ways. Try slicing it into smaller pieces and using it as a filling for a wrap or sandwich. You can also crumble it over a salad for a hearty lunch. Just remember to store it properly to maintain flavor and texture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this lasagne gluten-free, substitute regular lasagne noodles with gluten-free alternatives available at most grocery stores. Ensure that all other ingredients, like tomato paste and cheeses, are gluten-free as well to accommodate dietary restrictions.
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).