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Lasagna, a dish that brings families together, is a comforting embrace of flavors layered with love. This beef lasagna recipe is perfect for anyone who craves a hearty, satisfying meal without the fuss of complex preparation. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed to deliver delicious results with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This beef lasagna recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also saves you time with its no-boil noodles technique. By assembling it in advance, you can have a homemade Italian meal ready to bake at your convenience. The savory mix of beef and cheese will make this dish a family favorite.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 13 by 9-inch baking dish
- Large saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Cooking spray
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- Non-Stick cooking spray
- 3/4 lb extra-lean ground beef
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-1/2 tsp dried oregano leaves
- 1 (24 oz) jar spaghetti sauce
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 (16 oz) carton 2% cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked
- 1 (7 oz) package 2% shredded Mozzarella cheese, divided
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef with garlic and oregano. Add 1 cup of spaghetti sauce and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and mix in the chopped tomatoes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the egg, cottage cheese, and Parmesan cheese until well blended.
- Spray a 13 by 9-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Spread 1/2 cup of the meat sauce on the bottom of the dish. Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, then spread half of the cottage cheese mixture, 1/2 cup of mozzarella, and 1 cup of sauce. Repeat the layers, then top with the remaining noodles and sauce. Cover the dish with foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil, top with the remaining mozzarella, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
Ensure your layers are even to promote uniform cooking. For the best results, allow the lasagna to rest after baking, which helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Additional Tips and Variations
If you prefer, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Experiment with different cheeses, such as adding a bit of cheddar for a unique twist.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories 320, Carbohydrates 32g, Fat 10g, Fiber 3g, Cholesterol 65mg, Protein 25g, Sodium 710mg, Sugars 7g, Calcium 45% DV
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze this lasagna?
A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled lasagna before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Conclusion
There you have it—a simple yet delicious beef lasagna that’s sure to impress. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you explore. Happy cooking!
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