Lasagna Casserole Recipe

Here’s a complete guide for making Lasagna Casserole, a hearty, comforting dish that brings the flavors of traditional lasagna into a simplified, casserole form. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping ahead, this guide will walk you through each step to ensure your casserole turns out delicious every time.

Lasagna Casserole Recipe

Total Time: 45 minutes

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients:

For the Meat Sauce:

1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage for richer flavor)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
24 oz marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Cheese Mixture:

15 oz ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beaten
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)

For the Pasta Layer:

12 oz pasta (rigatoni, penne, or rotini)
Salt for boiling the pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook your pasta according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir in the ground beef (or sausage) and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Once browned, drain any excess fat from the meat.
Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, and the beaten egg.
Stir well until fully combined. If you’re using fresh basil, add it in for an extra burst of flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

In the greased baking dish, layer the ingredients:
1. First layer: Spread half of the cooked pasta on the bottom of the dish.
2. Second layer: Spread half of the meat sauce over the pasta.
3. Third layer: Add half of the cheese mixture on top of the meat sauce.
Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, sauce, and cheese mixture, making sure to finish with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and hot.
For a golden top, remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to let the cheese brown.

Step 7: Let It Rest

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This will allow the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve.

Serving Suggestions:

Side Salad: Serve your casserole with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing balance to the richness of the dish.
Garlic Bread: Pair with warm garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Consider a side of roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or broccoli for a healthier addition to the meal.

Variations & Substitutions:

Meat Options:

Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage work as great alternatives to beef.

Cheese Variations:

Swap ricotta cheese for cottage cheese or use a mix of cream cheese and sour cream for a tangy, creamy twist.

Vegetarian Version:

Replace the meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a combination of bell peppers, spinach, and other vegetables for a veggie-packed casserole.

Low-Carb Version:

Use thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant in place of pasta to make the dish low-carb and keto-friendly.

Gluten-Free Version:

Simply swap out regular pasta for gluten-free pasta for those with gluten sensitivities.

Tips for Success:

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cook your pasta just shy of being fully done since it will continue to cook in the casserole.
Let the Casserole Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 10 minutes after baking for cleaner slices and better texture.
Drain the Meat: Be sure to drain any excess fat from the cooked meat so the casserole isn’t greasy.
Customize It: Feel free to add extra vegetables, switch up the cheeses, or adjust the seasonings to suit your tastes.

Storage and Freezing:

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or covered in the oven.
Freezer: The casserole freezes wonderfully. Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles? No-boil noodles don’t work as well in a casserole dish that uses small pasta like penne or rotini. Stick to bite-sized pasta for best results.
Can I make this gluten-free? Yes! Just swap regular pasta for a gluten-free variety.
How long will lasagna casserole last in the fridge? Leftovers will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, this dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Conclusion:

This Lasagna Casserole recipe combines all the comfort and flavor of traditional lasagna in a simpler, easier-to-make form. Whether you prefer a meaty version, a vegetarian option, or a low-carb twist, this casserole is versatile, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Lasagna Casserole Recipe