One-Pan Lasagna
One-pan lasagna combines rich meat, creamy cottage cheese, and tender noodles with fresh herbs, making it a hearty, flavorful, and convenient dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 9 x 13-inch pan or buffet electric skillet, layer the cooked, drained ground beef, one package of spaghetti sauce mix, cottage cheese, uncooked lasagna noodles, another package of spaghetti sauce mix, basil, parsley, and salt.
- Pour the pureed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and water over all, ensuring all noodles are moistened.
- If using a skillet, bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for 35 minutes or until noodles are tender.
- If using an oven, cover and bake at 325°F for 45 minutes or until noodles are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider mixing in some ricotta cheese along with the cottage cheese. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils. You can also use no-boil lasagna noodles to save time, as they cook directly in the sauce. Enhance the flavor by adding garlic or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This One-Pan Lasagna pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For an Italian-inspired dinner, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a classic Caesar salad. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti, complements the flavors perfectly, enhancing your dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the lasagna in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of One-Pan Lasagna contains roughly 360 calories, with 26g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 503mg per serving (22% 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 different types of meat in this lasagna?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a mixture of meats for added flavor. For a lighter option, try using lean ground beef or a plant-based meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian lasagna.
How can I ensure the lasagna noodles are cooked properly?
To ensure the noodles are fully cooked, it's essential to fully moisten them with the sauce. If using traditional lasagna noodles, check for tenderness during cooking. If you prefer, you can soak them in hot water for a few minutes before layering them in the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the One-Pan Lasagna a day in advance. Simply assemble the layers and cover it tightly before refrigerating. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.
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).