Mrs. Couragen'S Lasagna
Creamy, hearty lasagna layered with rich tomato sauce, melted Velveeta, and mozzarella, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers craving cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground chuck in a skillet.
- Add chopped onion, chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, garlic salt, and oregano to the browned meat.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes.
- Cook the lasagna noodles while the sauce is simmering.
- In a 9 x 13-inch pan, layer cooked noodles, half of the sauce, Velveeta cut into chunks, mozzarella cut into chunks, and Parmesan cheese.
- End with the remaining sauce on top.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on the top layer.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding ricotta cheese between the layers. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you don't have Velveeta, a combination of mozzarella and cheddar can work well. Season the sauce to taste, adding more garlic salt or oregano based on your preference. For a twist, try incorporating ingredients from vegetarian recipes for a meatless version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mrs. Couragen's Lasagna with a fresh side salad or garlic bread, such as Helen's Italian Bread, to complete the meal. For an extra touch, sprinkle some fresh basil or parsley on top before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with Marinara Sauce By Miriam for those who enjoy an extra saucy bite.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave, covered, for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Couragen'S Lasagna contains roughly 177 calories, with 9g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
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 prepare the lasagna a day in advance. Assemble the layers in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for Velveeta?
If you prefer not to use Velveeta, a blend of shredded mozzarella and a bit of cream cheese can achieve a similar creamy texture. Alternatively, you could use a cheese sauce made from scratch for a more homemade feel.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! You can freeze leftover lasagna for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
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).