Lazy Lasagna Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lazy Lasagna Casserole is a simplified, one-pan version of traditional lasagna that offers all the rich, comforting flavors you love, without the layers or hassle. This easy-to-make casserole is packed with hearty meat, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, all baked together to perfection. It’s a great weeknight dinner that tastes just like lasagna but with less effort and fewer steps.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 8 oz uncooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef (or sausage) over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, and the Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and well mixed.
7. In the prepared casserole dish, layer half of the cooked pasta, then half of the meat sauce mixture, and then half of the ricotta cheese mixture. Repeat with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, and ricotta mixture.
8. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Swap the ricotta cheese for cottage cheese for a different texture.
• Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra vegetables.
• For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage.
• Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use no-boil noodles for this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute no-boil lasagna noodles, just make sure to add a little extra sauce to ensure the noodles cook properly.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, simply increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes.

Can I freeze Lazy Lasagna Casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Once cooled, cover it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes to an hour when ready to serve.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free due to the pasta. You can use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.

Conclusion

Lazy Lasagna Casserole is the perfect solution for when you’re craving lasagna but want a quicker, simpler version. With all the flavors of classic lasagna in one easy-to-make dish, it’s ideal for busy nights when you still want a comforting, cheesy meal. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a lasagna without all the layering and fuss.

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