The Best Lasagne
This hearty lasagne combines rich meat sauce, fresh mushrooms, and melted cheese for a comforting Italian classic perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. lasagne noodles ⓘ
- 1 lb. ground chuck ⓘ
- 1 giant onion, diced ⓘ
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic, crushed ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. olive oil ⓘ
- 2 qt. canned tomatoes ⓘ
- 1 large can tomato paste ⓘ
- 1 to 2 lb. fresh mushrooms, sliced ⓘ
- 2 lb. cottage cheese ⓘ
- 8 oz. Mozzarella cheese, grated ⓘ
- 3 to 5 basil leaves, crushed or chopped ⓘ
- 1 Tbsp. chopped parsley ⓘ
- salt and pepper to taste ⓘ
- grated Parmesan cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- In a heavy 3 or 4-quart pot, brown the ground chuck, diced onion, and crushed garlic in olive oil.
- Add canned tomatoes, tomato paste, sliced mushrooms, crushed basil, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture.
- Simmer uncovered for 1 1/2 hours to develop flavors.
- Cook the lasagne noodles according to the package directions.
- Layer cooked noodles, meat sauce, cottage cheese, and grated mozzarella in a baking dish.
- Repeat layers as needed, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the meat sauce while it simmers. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half of the cottage cheese with ricotta. Fresh herbs can enhance the taste, so use more basil if desired. Ensure the noodles are cooked al dente to prevent mushiness after baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lasagne with a side of Toasted Garlic Bread for a delightful meal. A fresh green salad or Spaghetti Salad can complement the dish, adding a crisp contrast to the rich flavors. Pair with a glass of red wine for a classic Italian dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover lasagne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The Best Lasagne contains roughly 1057 calories, with 43g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (138% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (105% of the Daily Value), and protein (85% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1732mg per serving (75% 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 lasagne ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagne a day in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap, cover with foil, and bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Is it possible to freeze lasagne?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled lasagne before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, or bake from frozen, adding extra time.
What can I substitute for cottage cheese?
If you wish to substitute cottage cheese, ricotta is a great option that offers a similar texture and flavor. Alternatively, for a lower-fat option, you can use Greek yogurt, though it will change the taste slightly. Ensure any substitute is well-drained before layering.
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).