Mema'S Favorite 6 Cheese Lasagna
A rich, cheesy lasagna featuring six varieties of cheese and a savory tomato-based sauce, perfect for family dinners and gatherings that love bold Italian flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 can tomato paste ⓘ
- 2 (8 oz.) cans plain tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1 (28 oz.) can diced tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 large package lasagna noodles ⓘ
- 1 large onion, chopped or pureed ⓘ
- 1 green pepper, chopped ⓘ
- 1 small package sliced mushrooms or 1 large can mushrooms ⓘ
- 1 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 1 package Italian sausage (mild) ⓘ
- 2 lb. Ricotta cheese
- 2 lb. Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
- 1 lb. Swiss cheese ⓘ
- 1 lb. Parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 2 lb. Cheddar/Monterey Jack mixed cheeses ⓘ
- onion powder ⓘ
- garlic powder ⓘ
- basil ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside in a bowl of cold water.
- Tear off the wrapping from the Italian sausage, then brown the sausage and ground beef together in a skillet.
- Add chopped or pureed onion, chopped green pepper, and sliced or canned mushrooms. Cook until tender.
- Reduce heat. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste.
- Sprinkle garlic powder evenly over the sauce, followed by onion powder and oregano. Lightly sprinkle basil to taste.
- Simmer the sauce on low for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a layer of béchamel sauce between the noodles. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the Ricotta cheese with cottage cheese. You can also experiment by using different types of cheeses such as goat cheese or feta for added flavor. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach, similar to Linda'S Low-Fat Lasagna.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. A light Italian vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the lasagna. For a comforting dessert, consider serving with a slice of tiramisu or a scoop of gelato to round out your Italian meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave or oven, covering it with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. For best results, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mema'S Favorite 6 Cheese Lasagna contains roughly 2476 calories, with 117g protein, 252g carbohydrates, and 124g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (234% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (220% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2530mg per serving (110% 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 use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe?
Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles. Just ensure that your sauce is extra saucy to provide enough moisture for the noodles to cook properly during baking. Layer them with the sauce and cheese as instructed, and you’ll still achieve a delicious dish.
What can I substitute for ground beef in this lasagna?
Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for ground beef, providing a leaner option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, use a mix of lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based meat alternatives, which will maintain the heartiness of the dish while keeping it meat-free.
Can I freeze the lasagna before baking it?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna and freeze it unbaked. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and then bake as directed. This is a great way to prepare meals in advance.
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).