Overnight Lasagne
Creamy overnight lasagne layered with rich meat sauce, ricotta, and melted mozzarella, perfect for make-ahead meals and satisfying family dinners with classic Italian flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef or Italian sausage and drain excess fat.
- Add the spaghetti sauce and water; blend well and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped chives, oregano, and egg; mix well.
- Spread 1 1/2 cups of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Layer half of the uncooked lasagne noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Top with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers: sauce, noodles, ricotta, and mozzarella.
- Finish with the remaining meat sauce on top and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes until bubbly and hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also use whole wheat lasagne noodles for a healthier option. To save time, use a high-quality jarred sauce like Yummy Spaghetti Sauce or make your own. Be sure to mix the ricotta mixture thoroughly for a smooth texture in the lasagne.
Serving Suggestions
This Overnight Lasagne is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Italian recipes like My Italian Casserole for a delightful dinner spread. A glass of red wine complements the flavors well, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave until heated through, or cover the entire dish with foil and bake at 350°F until heated evenly, about 25-30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Overnight Lasagne contains roughly 766 calories, with 30g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (279% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (162% of the Daily Value), and iron (133% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 532mg 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 freeze Overnight Lasagne?
Yes, you can freeze lasagne before baking. Assemble the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different flavor profile. For the mozzarella, try a blend of provolone and fontina for a rich, creamy texture. Just ensure the cheeses are well blended for the best results.
How do I know when the lasagne is done baking?
The lasagne is done when the edges are bubbling, and the top is golden and slightly crispy. You can also insert a knife in the center; it should come out hot. Let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving for easier 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).