Vicki'S Lasagna
Creamy, cheesy lasagna layered with seasoned meat, tender noodles, and rich cheeses, perfect for family dinners or gatherings that enjoy hearty Italian comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown hamburger; drain.
- Add spaghetti seasoning mix, tomato sauce, and tomato paste; simmer for 30 minutes.
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions.
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Layer 3 noodles on the bottom of the pan.
- Top with half of the meat mixture; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Add 3 more noodles, then layer with cottage cheese.
- Add remaining noodles and the rest of the meat mixture.
- Sprinkle heavily with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 30 to 45 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding sautéed onions and garlic to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, try using a mix of sautéed vegetables or lentils instead of meat. Additionally, feel free to use store-bought marinara sauce if you're short on time.
Serving Suggestions
Vicki's Lasagna pairs beautifully with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the rich lasagna. For an Italian-themed dinner, consider serving it alongside Italian Easter Pizza for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vicki'S Lasagna contains roughly 183 calories, with 15g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A.
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. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
If you prefer, you can substitute ricotta cheese for the cottage cheese for a creamier texture. You can also use a dairy-free alternative like tofu blended with nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
How can I make the lasagna extra cheesy?
To amp up the cheese factor, consider adding layers of provolone or cheddar cheese in addition to the mozzarella. You can also mix some cheese into the meat sauce for added creaminess.
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).