Sally'S Easy Lasagne
Sally's Easy Lasagne combines rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheeses, and savory tomato sauce layered to create a comforting and hearty Italian-inspired dish. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this lasagne offers a satisfying, cheesy experience with simple ingredients and straightforward preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Cook the hamburger in a skillet until browned.
- Add the jar of Ragu and the can of tomato paste to the cooked hamburger, simmer for a few minutes.
- Spread a layer of meat sauce in a baking dish.
- Add a layer of cottage cheese over the sauce.
- Place sliced mozzarella cheese on top of the cottage cheese.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of shredded sharp cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes to brown the cheese.
- Let sit for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding Italian seasoning or garlic powder to the meat sauce. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute the cottage cheese with ricotta. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger for a healthier alternative. Adjust the cheeses based on your preference, and feel free to mix in some spinach for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. A light vinaigrette goes well with the salad. It pairs beautifully with Kathy'S Cavatini for a complete Italian meal experience, or even with a classic Italian Carbonara for a delightful dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F covered with foil for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sally'S Easy Lasagne contains roughly 467 calories, with 18g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, covered. Just allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking, and adjust the cooking time as needed if it's been in the fridge.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you don't have cream cheese on hand, you can substitute it with ricotta cheese for a similar texture. Alternatively, a blend of sour cream and cottage cheese can work as a suitable replacement, providing a creamy consistency.
How do I know when the lasagna is done?
The lasagna is done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top, and the edges are slightly crispy. You can also insert a knife in the center to check for heat. If it comes out hot, the lasagna is ready to serve.
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).