Classic Italian-Style Baked Lasagna
This classic Italian-style baked lasagna is a cherished family recipe that has been lovingly passed down for generations. Originating from the renowned River Road Recipes junior league cookbook, this dish combines layers of tender pasta, a savory beef and tomato sauce, and creamy, cheesy fillings. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this lasagna is sure to tantalize your taste buds and warm your heart. Each bite offers a perfect balance of rich flavors and comforting textures, making it a beloved staple in our household.
8
Servings
437.5
Calories
15
Ingredients
Ingredients
lean ground beef
1 lb (crumble and brown)
garlic
1 clove (minced)
dried chopped parsley
1 tablespoon (dry)
dried basil
1 tablespoon (dry)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
tomatoes (or diced canned tomatoes)
2 cups (crushed or diced)
tomato paste
2 (6 ounce) cans (to thicken sauce)
dry lasagna noodles
1 (8 ounce) package (uncooked)
cottage cheese
1 (24 ounce) carton (to blend)
eggs
2 (beaten)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
pepper
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
dried chopped parsley
2 tablespoons (dry)
grated parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (for layering)
grated mozzarella cheese
1 lb (for topping)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble and brown the lean ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
2
Add minced garlic, dried chopped parsley, dried basil, salt, tomatoes, and tomato paste to the browned beef. Stir well to combine.
3
Pour one can of water from the tomato paste into the skillet, mixing thoroughly. Allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
4
While the sauce is simmering, combine cottage cheese, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, dried parsley, and grated parmesan cheese in a large mixing bowl. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
5
In a separate pot, cook the dry lasagna noodles in boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
6
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 13x9x2-inch baking pan with vegetable oil spray to prevent sticking.
7
Layer half of the cooked lasagna noodles evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
8
Spread half of the cottage cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the meat mixture, and half of the grated mozzarella cheese.
9
Repeat the layers with the remaining noodles, cottage cheese mixture, meat mixture, and mozzarella cheese on top.
10
Cover the baking pan with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the lasagna is bubbling and the mozzarella cheese is golden brown.
11
Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
25g
Fat
31.25g
Carbs
25g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of this lasagna recipe?
The recipe is called Classic Italian-Style Baked Lasagna.
Where does this lasagna recipe originate from?
This recipe originates from the renowned River Road Recipes junior league cookbook.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This lasagna recipe yields 8 servings.
What type of meat is used in the sauce?
The recipe uses 1 lb of lean ground beef.
How long should the meat sauce simmer?
The sauce should simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes until it thickens.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C).
What kind of cheese is used in the filling instead of ricotta?
A 24-ounce carton of cottage cheese is used for the creamy filling mixture.
How many eggs are needed for the cheese mixture?
Two beaten eggs are required for the cottage cheese mixture.
What size baking pan should be used?
A 13x9x2-inch baking pan is recommended for this recipe.
How much mozzarella cheese is required?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of grated mozzarella cheese.
How many calories are in one serving of this lasagna?
Each serving contains 437.5 calories.
Should the lasagna be covered while baking?
Yes, cover the pan with aluminum foil for the first 30 minutes of baking.
How do you prepare the lasagna noodles?
Cook the dry lasagna noodles in boiling water until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
What herbs are used in the meat sauce?
The meat sauce is seasoned with dried chopped parsley and dried basil.
Is there any tomato paste in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe uses two 6-ounce cans of tomato paste to thicken the sauce.
How much protein is in each serving?
There are 25 grams of protein per serving.
How much fat is in each serving?
There are 25 grams of fat per serving.
What is the total carbohydrate count per serving?
Each serving contains 31.25 grams of carbohydrates.
Do you need to drain the ground beef?
Yes, you should drain the excess fat after browning the lean ground beef.
How much parmesan cheese is included?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese in the cottage cheese mixture.
What are the first steps for layering the lasagna?
Start by layering half of the cooked noodles, then half of the cottage cheese mixture, half of the meat sauce, and half of the mozzarella.
How long should the lasagna bake uncovered?
After the initial 30 minutes covered, bake it uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.
What indicates the lasagna is finished baking?
The lasagna is done when it is bubbling and the mozzarella cheese on top is golden brown.
How many different ingredients are needed for this recipe?
There are 15 distinct ingredients listed for this lasagna.
Should the baking pan be greased?
Yes, spray the baking pan with vegetable oil spray to prevent sticking.
What should be done before slicing the lasagna?
Remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before slicing.
How much garlic is used in the sauce?
The recipe requires one minced clove of garlic.
Is water added to the sauce?
Yes, one can of water (using the tomato paste can) is mixed into the skillet.
What are the primary tags associated with this dish?
The tags include lasagna, italian, comfort food, family recipe, baked pasta, casserole, and hearty meal.
Can I use diced canned tomatoes?
Yes, the recipe suggests 2 cups of tomatoes, which can be crushed or diced canned tomatoes.