Nathan'S Favorite Lasagne
Creamy, savory lasagne layered with rich beef, melted cheeses, and tomato sauce, perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering comforting flavors with a cheesy, meaty profile.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef ⓘ
- 2 cloves garlic ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. salad or olive oil ⓘ
- 1 (No. 2) can tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 (8 oz.) can tomato sauce ⓘ
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 8 oz. lasagne noodles ⓘ
- 1/2 lb. Swiss or Monterey Jack cheese ⓘ
- 3/4 lb. Ricotta or dry cottage cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook lasagne noodles; drain and set aside.
- Mince garlic; brown lightly with crumbled ground beef in oil.
- Simmer the meat mixture with tomatoes, tomato sauce, Parmesan, oregano, salt, and pepper for 20 minutes.
- Butter a large casserole dish.
- Cover the bottom with a layer of cooked noodles.
- Add a layer of sliced cheese, then spread with Ricotta or cottage cheese, followed by the meat mixture.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the assembled lasagne at 375°F for 20 minutes.
- Let it rest before serving. Can be made a day ahead and reheated uncovered.
- Serve with green salad, mandarin oranges, and French bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage. If you’re short on time, no-boil lasagne noodles can be a great substitute. For a lighter version, try using low-fat cheese or adding more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Adjust the seasonings based on your personal preferences.
Serving Suggestions
This lasagne pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and mandarin oranges for a refreshing contrast. Serve alongside warm French bread for a complete meal. You can also prepare a simple side of garlic bread or a light vinaigrette to enhance the dining experience. For more Italian recipes, explore options like Chris' Spaghetti Sauce or Italian Style Brazzoli.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the lasagne cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the lasagne before baking. When reheating, bake at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes until heated through, adding a splash of water to prevent drying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nathan'S Favorite Lasagne contains roughly 458 calories, with 17g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (129% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (93% of the Daily Value), and calcium (76% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1422mg per serving (62% 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 in this lasagne?
Absolutely! While Swiss or Monterey Jack adds a nice touch, feel free to substitute with mozzarella or provolone for a gooey texture. You can even mix different cheeses for added flavor complexity.
How can I make this lasagne vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. You can also add lentils or beans for protein, ensuring the dish remains hearty and satisfying.
What can I serve with lasagne?
In addition to a green salad and garlic bread, consider serving a light soup or a side of roasted vegetables. A classic Italian dessert like tiramisu can also be a delightful way to finish the meal, enhancing the Italian dining experience.
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).