Ragu No-Boiling Lasagna
A creamy, hearty lasagna that combines rich meat sauce with a cheesy ricotta mixture, layered with uncooked noodles for a no-boil convenience. Perfect for comforting family dinners, this dish offers bold flavors and a satisfying texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and eggs.
- Spread 1/2 jar of pasta sauce in the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking dish.
- Place 4 uncooked lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
- Repeat with another layer of 4 noodles, remaining half of the ricotta mixture, and the remaining half jar of pasta sauce.
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 1 hour.
- Remove foil and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of spinach or other vegetables to the ricotta mixture. If you're out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano makes a great substitute. To prevent sticking, ensure the noodles are well-covered with sauce. For an extra flavor boost, try seasoning the ricotta with Italian herbs. This recipe can also be customized with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
This lasagna pairs beautifully with a simple side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. For a heartier spread, consider serving it alongside Crusty Coated Eggplant. A glass of red wine complements the flavors perfectly. If you have leftovers, they make for a great lunch option the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ragu No-Boiling Lasagna contains roughly 471 calories, with 28g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (60% of the Daily Value), protein (56% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 647mg per serving (28% 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 whole wheat lasagna noodles?
Yes, whole wheat lasagna noodles can be used in this recipe. They will add a nutty flavor and extra fiber, making the dish a bit healthier. Just ensure they are fully covered with sauce to cook properly during baking.
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge. This makes it great for meal prep or entertaining guests.
Is it necessary to cover the lasagna with foil while baking?
Yes, covering the lasagna with foil during the first part of baking helps to retain moisture, ensuring the noodles cook properly. Removing the foil for the last 10 minutes allows the cheese to become golden and bubbly, creating a deliciously crispy top.
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).