Microwave Lasagna
A quick and hearty microwave lasagna perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Layers of seasoned meat, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheeses meld together for a comforting Italian-inspired dish that can be prepared in minutes without an oven. Ideal for families and lasagna lovers seeking convenience.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. lasagna, cooked
- 2 (8 oz.) tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1 (6 oz.) tomato paste ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. leaf oregano ⓘ
- 2 tsp. basil ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder or 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 lb. ground chuck ⓘ
- 1 pt. small curd cottage cheese ⓘ
- 1 egg ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. parsley flakes ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 6 oz. Mozzarella cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Mix tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and garlic powder or minced garlic to make the sauce.
- Spread the sauce in a 12 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Brown and drain the ground chuck, then mix it with the remaining sauce.
- Layer cooked lasagna noodles, cottage cheese mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese in the baking dish.
- Repeat layers if desired, ending with a cheese layer on top.
- Microwave on high for about 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker meal, consider using no-boil lasagna noodles, which can save time and ensure the layers meld beautifully. If you prefer a lighter option, swap out the ground chuck for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative. Adding spinach or zucchini to the layers can boost nutrition and flavor. You can also use store-bought marinara sauce as a shortcut, making this dish even easier.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lasagna with a simple side salad dressed with Creamy Italian Dressing for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also pairs deliciously, allowing you to soak up the extra sauce. For a heartier meal, consider serving with Meatballs(For Macaroni Sauce) on the side. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the lasagna cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions on medium power for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through, or bake in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Lasagna contains roughly 776 calories, with 39g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (78% of the Daily Value), iron (58% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1974mg per serving (86% 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 a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the microwave time to ensure it's heated through.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of the lasagna for up to 3 months. Just ensure it's well-wrapped or placed in an airtight container. To reheat from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then microwave or bake until hot.
What can I substitute for the cottage cheese?
If you're not a fan of cottage cheese, ricotta cheese is a great alternative. It provides a similar creaminess and flavor. You can also try a blended tofu mixture for a dairy-free option, making it suitable for vegetarian recipes.
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).