Rita'S Lasagna
A hearty, cheesy lasagna layered with seasoned ground beef, rich marinara, and a blend of three cheeses, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and season with seasoned salt, garlic powder, minced onion, salt, and pepper.
- Drain the meat and combine with marinara sauce.
- Heat the sauce until bubbling, then simmer while cooking lasagna noodles.
- Cook lasagna noodles until al dente, then drain.
- Spray an 11 x 14-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
- Layer noodles at the bottom of the pan, then cover with sauce and sliced Mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layers with noodles, sauce, and alternate with Jack and Cheddar cheeses.
- Add the final layer of noodles and sauce on top.
- Grate the remaining cheeses (Mozzarella, Jack, Cheddar) and sprinkle on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding fresh basil or oregano to the marinara sauce. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter version. If you want to make it vegetarian, replace the meat with roasted vegetables or lentils. Using no-boil lasagna noodles can save time, but ensure the sauce is extra saucy to cook them properly. For a twist, try a layer of ricotta cheese, similar to what you'd find in Five-Cheese Lasagna.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Rita's Lasagna with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables pairs beautifully, adding texture and flavor. For a fun twist, consider serving with a side of Stuffed Shells(Italian) for a delightful Italian feast. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti, complements the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out. For longer storage, freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rita'S Lasagna contains roughly 406 calories, with 23g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (52% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1051mg per serving (46% 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 make Rita's Lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.
What can I do with leftover lasagna?
Leftover lasagna can be reheated as mentioned above, or you can repurpose it into a lasagna pizza by spreading a layer of the lasagna on a pizza crust and baking. It’s a creative way to enjoy your favorite flavors in a new form!
Can I freeze Rita's Lasagna?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to preserve lasagna. Make sure it cools completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.
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).