Speedy Lasagna
A quick, hearty lasagna featuring seasoned ground beef, stewed tomatoes, and melted cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners and satisfying comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add oregano, sugar, stewed tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the beef; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce, then layer noodles, cheese mixture, and repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with meat sauce on top.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top layer.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a faster preparation, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles instead of cooked ones. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef. Adding vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms to the layers can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Make sure to let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes after baking for easier slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Speedy Lasagna with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine pairs beautifully with the dish, enhancing the rich flavors. For a comforting side, consider serving with Italian recipes like Tortellini Soup Stew or Mom's Perfect Spaghetti to complement the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Speedy Lasagna contains roughly 840 calories, with 60g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (164% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and protein (121% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1358mg per serving (59% 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 this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, ricotta is a great substitute for cottage cheese in lasagna. You can also blend cream cheese with a little milk to achieve a similar creamy texture if you want a richer flavor.
How do I know when the lasagna is done baking?
The lasagna is done when the top is bubbly and golden brown, and the edges are slightly crisp. You can also insert a knife in the center; it should feel hot to the touch. If you're unsure, let it bake a few extra minutes to ensure it's heated through.
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).