Nana Jaspers Lasagna
Nana Jasper's Lasagna features rich meat sauce layered with cheeses and pasta, perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering hearty, savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground round with grated onion and garlic; drain well.
- Add canned whole Italian tomatoes, tomato paste thinned with water, salt, and sugar; simmer for about 1 hour.
- Mix Ricotta, Romano, and Provolone cheeses together.
- Boil lasagna noodles until tender.
- Layer cooked noodles, cheese mixture, and meat sauce alternately in a baking dish, ending with meat sauce on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes or until bubbly, covering with aluminum foil during the first 20 minutes if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like basil or oregano to the meat sauce. If you don't have Romano cheese, Parmesan can be a great substitute. To save time, use no-boil lasagna noodles, which can also be layered directly with the sauce and cheese mixture. For kids, serve with a side of Fried Zucchini(Italian Squash) for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Nana Jasper's Lasagna with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine pairs beautifully with this dish, enhancing the flavors of the rich meat sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving with steamed vegetables or a side of Tomato Cream Pasta Sauce for added variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nana Jaspers Lasagna contains roughly 81 calories, with 7g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1005mg per serving (44% 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?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just remember to adjust the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge, as it may need a few extra minutes to heat through.
What can I use instead of ground round?
Ground turkey or chicken makes a lighter alternative to beef and works well in lasagna. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and lentils for a hearty filling that complements the cheese and sauce.
Can I freeze the lasagna after baking?
Yes, you can freeze the lasagna after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven 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).