Mike Newman'S Lasagna
A hearty and cheesy lasagna layered with meat, spinach, and rich tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings that love comfort food with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer cooked lasagna noodles with Ragu sauce, ground meat, cottage cheese, spinach, and shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers and finish with noodles topped with sauce and shredded Mozzarella cheese.
- Pour 1 cup of water around the edge of the dish, cover tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 45 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef; this pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the Ragu sauce. You can also substitute the cottage cheese with ricotta for a creamier texture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked lasagna noodles can save you prep time. Adding herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lasagna hot with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine complements the hearty flavors beautifully. For an Italian-inspired touch, consider pairing with a side of Mozzarella With Tomatoes for a refreshing contrast. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or meal prep.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil to retain moisture and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mike Newman'S Lasagna contains roughly 219 calories, with 20g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (39% of the Daily Value) and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. At about 219 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time as it will be cold from the fridge.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the lasagna after it's baked or before baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour or until heated through. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
What can I substitute for spinach?
If you're not a fan of spinach, you can replace it with cooked mushrooms or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition. Alternatively, you could skip the greens altogether or use a mix of frozen vegetables, making it a delightful option from the world of 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).