Ohio Lasagna
Ohio Lasagna features layers of savory meat sauce, creamy cheeses, and tender noodles, creating a hearty, cheesy dish perfect for family gatherings and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground chuck in a skillet.
- Add chopped onion, canned mushrooms, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Simmer for 30 minutes.
- Prepare lasagna noodles separately using a tablespoon of oil in boiling water to prevent sticking.
- Drain the noodles and spread each noodle flat.
- Layer the sauce, noodles, and cheeses in a 13 x 9 1/4-inch casserole dish.
- Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used.
- Top with American cheese, grated mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to taste.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance your Ohio Lasagna, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick or substituting cottage cheese for part of the American cheese for a creamier texture. You can also use no-boil lasagna noodles to save time. For a vegetarian version, replace the ground chuck with sautéed vegetables or lentils, making it a satisfying option for those exploring vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Ohio Lasagna pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad and garlic bread to round out the meal. For a comforting touch, serve it alongside a warm bowl of Deluxe Broccoli Casserole. A light dessert, such as Chocolate Cake, can be a delightful way to finish the meal, balancing the hearty flavors of the lasagna.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or cover and bake in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated through. If the lasagna seems dry, add a splash of tomato sauce before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ohio Lasagna contains roughly 134 calories, with 10g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A.
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 Ohio Lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and bake at 350°F, possibly adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
What can I use instead of ground chuck?
If you're looking for alternatives to ground chuck, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian alternative, consider crumbled tempeh or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and zucchini, which will still provide a hearty texture.
How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together?
To prevent the lasagna noodles from sticking, add a tablespoon of oil to the boiling water before cooking. Stir the noodles occasionally while cooking, and after draining, lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper to cool slightly before layering.
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).