Mr. D.'S Easy Lasagna
A hearty, cheesy lasagna layered with savory beef, rich sauces, and melty mozzarella, perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Add the spaghetti sauce and water; heat through.
- Mix the cottage cheese, egg, parsley, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper in a bowl.
- Spread 1/2 cup of sauce and meat mixture on the bottom of a casserole dish.
- Layer lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
- Spread a layer of the cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Add another layer of sauce and meat, then noodles, and repeat until ingredients are used.
- Cover the casserole with foil and bake at 375°F for 50 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the meat sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute ground turkey for the beef. For a creamier texture, use a combination of Ricotta and cottage cheese. If you have leftover sauce, it can be used in dishes like Homemade Spaghetti And Meat Balls.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your lasagna with a fresh side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine pairs beautifully with this dish. For additional flavor, sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving. This lasagna also makes a hearty companion to Easiest Every Spaghetti Meat Sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mr. D.'S Easy Lasagna contains roughly 717 calories, with 27g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (104% of the Daily Value), potassium (56% of the Daily Value), and protein (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 678mg per serving (29% 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 a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone or gouda for a unique flavor. Just ensure they melt well to get that gooey texture.
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lasagna a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing in the oven.
Is it possible to freeze lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze lasagna before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To bake from frozen, increase the baking time by about 30-40 minutes at 375°F. If already baked, thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).