Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: lasagna casserole! There’s just something about those warm layers of pasta, rich meat, and bubbling cheese that feels like a big hug on a plate. I remember the first time I made it for my family; the kitchen was filled with the most mouthwatering aromas, and everyone gathered around the table, eagerly awaiting the first bite. It quickly became a weekly staple in our house, and I love how it’s perfect for both cozy nights in and feeding a crowd. The best part? It’s super easy to whip up, and my kids love helping with the layers (even if it sometimes gets a bit messy). Trust me, once you try this lasagna casserole, it’ll find a special place in your heart and your dinner rotation!

Ingredients for Lasagna Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious lasagna casserole that will have everyone asking for seconds! Gather these ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

• 12 lasagna noodles (uncooked)
• 1 pound ground beef (lean, for a hearty base)
• 1 onion, chopped (for a touch of sweetness)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
• 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade, your choice!)
• 2 cups ricotta cheese (creamy goodness that holds it all together)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (the more, the merrier!)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for that extra cheesy flavor)
• 1 egg (to bind the ricotta filling)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for a pop of color and freshness)
• Salt and pepper to taste (don’t forget to season!)

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a mouthwatering dish that will warm your heart and fill your belly. Let’s get everything prepped and ready to dive into making this lasagna casserole!

How to Prepare Lasagna Casserole

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of preparing this mouthwatering lasagna casserole! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s preheat that oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because a hot oven helps the lasagna cook evenly and bubble up beautifully. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this!

Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

Next, cook your lasagna noodles according to the package directions. Usually, this means boiling them for about 8–10 minutes until they’re al dente. If you’re using pre-cooked noodles, you can skip this step; just make sure they’re ready for layering!

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce

Now, grab a skillet and brown your ground beef over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring until the meat is no longer pink and the onion is translucent. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once that’s done, pour in the marinara sauce, give it a good stir, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld together, creating a luscious sauce!

Step 4: Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s nice and smooth. This filling is what adds that creamy, dreamy layer to your lasagna, so don’t rush it!

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Now comes the fun part: assembling the casserole! Start with a layer of meat sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. Next, place three lasagna noodles on top, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, and then sprinkle a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers, ending with a final layer of meat sauce and topping it off with the remaining mozzarella. Sprinkle that Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish!

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Pop your assembled casserole into the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden on top. Once it’s out, let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the layers set a bit, making it easier to serve. And there you have it—an irresistible lasagna casserole that’s ready to be devoured!

Tips for Success with Lasagna Casserole

To ensure your lasagna casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips! First, always opt for fresh ingredients whenever possible—think ripe tomatoes for your marinara sauce and high-quality cheeses. Fresh ingredients truly elevate the flavor! When layering, aim for even distribution to avoid any soggy or overly dry spots; this will make each bite a delight.

Also, be careful not to overcook the casserole! While you want it bubbly and golden, keep an eye on it during those last few minutes of baking. If you notice the edges starting to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the center finishes cooking. Lastly, giving it a little time to rest after baking is key—it helps the flavors mingle and makes serving a breeze. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each slice of this delicious lasagna casserole. Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and ingredients you use. But overall, here’s what you can expect:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 18g
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

This hearty dish is not only satisfying but also provides a good balance of protein and carbs, making it a great option for a family meal. So go ahead, indulge a little—your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs about Lasagna Casserole

Got questions about making this lasagna casserole? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries that pop up:

Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, just pop it into the oven—no need to thaw!

What if I have leftovers? Lucky you! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I substitute the ground beef? Definitely! Ground turkey or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option works just as well. You can also mix in some sautéed vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.

Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, if you use gluten-free lasagna noodles, this recipe can easily accommodate gluten-free diets.

Can I freeze lasagna casserole? Yes! Just make sure to freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and it’ll keep well in the freezer for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this lasagna casserole, and I can’t wait to share them with you! Trust me, once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a family favorite.

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have a hearty dish ready to go in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore this comforting meal, making it perfect for family dinners.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day. It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious meal without extra cooking!
• Customizable: You can easily tweak it with different meats, sauces, or veggies to suit your family’s taste!
• Gathering Dish: It’s great for potlucks or gatherings, sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe!

So, get ready to embrace this lasagna casserole—it’s sure to win your heart (and your stomach) every time!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this scrumptious lasagna casserole, let’s talk about how to make your meal even more delightful! I love to serve it alongside some warm garlic bread—there’s just something about that crispy, buttery goodness that pairs perfectly with the rich layers of lasagna. A fresh garden salad is also a fantastic addition; it adds a nice crunch and balances out the hearty flavors of the casserole. Toss in some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette for a refreshing touch!

If you’re feeling fancy, why not pour a glass of red wine? A nice Chianti or Merlot complements the tomato sauce beautifully and elevates the whole dining experience. And don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra parsley on top of your serving for that pop of color! Trust me, these little touches will take your lasagna night to the next level!

Lasagna Casserole: 7 Comforting Layers You’ll Adore

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A layered pasta dish with meat, cheese, and tomato sauce.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions.
3. In a skillet, brown ground beef with onion and garlic.
4. Add marinara sauce to the beef mixture and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
6. Spread a layer of meat sauce in a baking dish.
7. Layer noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
8. Repeat layers, finishing with meat sauce and mozzarella cheese on top.
9. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
10. Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly.
11. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Use pre-cooked noodles for quicker preparation.
• Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Allow leftovers to cool before storing in the fridge.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: lasagna, casserole, pasta, Italian