Michigan Lasagna
Michigan Lasagna is a hearty, cheesy casserole layered with rich meat sauce, creamy cottage cheese, and melted mozzarella, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions.
- Beat the egg and mix it with the cottage cheese, parsley flakes, and garlic powder.
- Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage, then drain excess fat.
- Add Prego chunky vegetable sauce and tomato paste to the meat, simmering until heated through. If too thick, add a little water.
- Coat a 9 x 13-inch pan with a little oil.
- Layer cooked noodles, meat sauce, and the egg and cheese mixture in the pan.
- Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of meat sauce on top.
- Cover the pan and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove the cover and bake for another 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped onions and bell peppers to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or use a mix of your favorite Italian sausage for added spice. To save time, opt for no-boil lasagna noodles, which simplify the layering process. This dish is reminiscent of Quick And Easy Lasagna, so feel free to get creative with additional vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Michigan Lasagna with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish well. For a fun twist, pair with Uncle Nick'S Famous Meatballs for extra protein. Leftovers make for a hearty lunch the next day, so don’t hesitate to make a larger batch!
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, heating in short intervals until hot. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Michigan Lasagna contains roughly 421 calories, with 19g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1438mg per serving (63% 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 Michigan Lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking, then follow the baking instructions. This helps ensure even cooking and delicious results.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
If you prefer a different texture or flavor, ricotta cheese is a great substitute for cottage cheese in this recipe. You can also blend cream cheese with a splash of milk for a creamier consistency. Each option will provide a delicious creamy layer to complement the meat sauce.
How can I make this lasagna vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Michigan Lasagna, simply omit the ground beef and sausage. Substitute with a mix of sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach, or use a meat substitute. You can also enhance the flavor with extra herbs and spices, making it a delightful alternative for meatless meals.
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).