One Dish Lasagna
A hearty, cheesy lasagna layered with rich meat sauce, perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering comforting Italian flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat from the beef mixture.
- Add the spaghetti sauce, water, and sugar to the skillet. Simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.
- In a greased 9 x 13-inch pan, layer one-third of the sauce mixture, half of the uncooked lasagna noodles, half of the cottage cheese, and one-third of the shredded Mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers: sauce, noodles, cottage cheese, and mozzarella.
- Finish with a layer of sauce and sprinkle the top with a mixture of 1 cup Mozzarella and 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the pan with foil.
- Refrigerate overnight for best flavor, or bake immediately at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian herbs like basil and oregano to the sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute ground turkey for the beef. You can also use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese for a creamier texture. If you're short on time, no-boil lasagna noodles could work, but you'll need to adjust the liquid in the recipe accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this One Dish Lasagna with a fresh green salad and garlic bread to complete the meal. A light vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagna nicely. For a comforting touch, pair with a warm bowl of Darlene'S Italian Soup. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, as it can easily feed a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 25-30 minutes. This dish also freezes well; just ensure it's tightly wrapped or in a suitable container to prevent freezer burn, and consume within 2-3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of One Dish Lasagna contains roughly 459 calories, with 30g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 538mg per serving (23% 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 prepare this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil to prevent drying out. You can also bake it immediately if you're short on time.
What can I substitute for the cottage cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for cottage cheese, ricotta cheese is a great alternative for a creamier texture. You can also use a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the consistency remains similar for layering.
How do I prevent my lasagna from being watery?
To prevent watery lasagna, make sure to use a thicker spaghetti sauce, like the extra thick Ragu mentioned. Additionally, avoid overcooking the noodles before layering, as they will absorb some moisture during baking. Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to set before slicing.
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).