Mom'S (Tookie) Lasagna
Mom's Tookie Lasagna features rich meat sauce, creamy cottage cheese, and melted mozzarella, creating a hearty, comforting Italian dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a 3-quart saucepan; drain excess fat.
- Add the spaghetti sauce and water to the beef.
- Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes.
- Combine the remaining ingredients, except the lasagna noodles, to prepare the filling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using Italian sausage instead of ground beef, or a mix of both. You can substitute ricotta cheese for cottage cheese if preferred. If you want to lighten the dish, try using whole wheat lasagna noodles or reduced-fat cheese options. Adding spinach or zucchini to the filling can boost nutrition while maintaining a delicious taste. For a quicker prep, use pre-cooked noodles.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this lasagna with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Angie'S Easy Lasagne, which offers a different take on the classic. You can also sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving for extra flavor. A light red wine, like Chianti, complements the dish well.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover the lasagna with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal; just cover with a microwave-safe lid to prevent splatters.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S (Tookie) Lasagna contains roughly 741 calories, with 30g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and calcium (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2114mg per serving (92% 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 the lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
Can I freeze lasagna?
Absolutely! You can freeze baked or unbaked lasagna. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, add about 30 minutes to the baking time, making sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian version. Each alternative will give a different flavor profile, so adjust seasonings accordingly to enhance the taste of your lasagna.
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).