Wise'S Volleyball Lasagne
A hearty lasagne featuring savory sausage or vegetarian zucchini, squash, and mushrooms, layered with rich tomato sauce, creamy cheeses, and fragrant herbs for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the sausage in a large skillet until browned; set aside.
- If making vegetarian style, substitute zucchini, squash, and mushrooms for sausage and cook until tender.
- In a large pot, combine the whole tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper; simmer to make the sauce.
- Cook the noodles according to package instructions; drain.
- In a bowl, mix cottage cheese with beaten egg.
- Layer cooked noodles, meat or vegetable mixture, cottage cheese mixture, and shredded mozzarella in a baking dish.
- Repeat layers as needed, ending with a top layer of mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-60 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier flavor, consider adding sautéed onions and garlic to the sausage. If you're looking for a lighter option, substitute the cottage cheese with ricotta or Greek yogurt. Adding vegetables like spinach or roasted red peppers can boost nutrition and flavor. For a fun twist, try incorporating layers of pesto or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this lasagna with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A simple Lasagna Salad pairs beautifully as a refreshing side dish. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for a burst of color and flavor. Pair with a light red wine or a sparkling water for a delightful dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wise'S Volleyball Lasagne contains roughly 503 calories, with 15g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (76% of the Daily Value), calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 724mg per serving (31% 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. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake it as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If mozzarella is unavailable, you can substitute it with provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses. For a lower-fat option, use part-skim mozzarella. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well to achieve that gooey texture typical of lasagna.
Can I freeze this lasagna?
Absolutely! You can freeze lasagna before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the lasagna and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To reheat, bake it from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 1.5 hours, or until heated through. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely before wrapping.
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).