Description
A classic lasagna made easy! Layers of tender noodles, savory ground beef, creamy cottage cheese, and rich marinara sauce come together to create the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish delivers hearty flavors and cheesy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups cottage cheese
- 1 large egg
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef until browned. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Drain excess fat.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: Combine cottage cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a mixing bowl.
- Layer Lasagna:
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer 3 noodles, half the cottage cheese mixture, a third of the beef, marinara, and mozzarella.
- Repeat for a second layer.
- Add a final layer of noodles, marinara, Parmesan, and mozzarella.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for 15–20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- For added veggies, layer in sautéed spinach or mushrooms.
- Assemble a day ahead for convenience; refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Use ricotta cheese as a substitute for cottage cheese if preferred.
- Freeze unbaked lasagna for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American