Lasagna Casserole Recipe

If you love the flavors of classic lasagna but want a quicker, simpler version to whip up, this Lasagna Casserole Recipe is for you! It’s all the deliciousness of lasagna in an easy-to-make casserole, packed with layers of savory meat, tender pasta, creamy ricotta, and gooey cheese. This one-pan meal is perfect for feeding a crowd, meal prepping for the week, or making ahead for busy nights. Let’s dive into the full recipe and explore some tips to make this hearty dish even better!

this Recipe

What is Lasagna Casserole?

Lasagna Casserole is a deconstructed version of the traditional lasagna, where instead of layering long lasagna noodles, you use smaller pasta like rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta. It has all the familiar flavors of lasagna—rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella—without the hassle of stacking and layering noodles. This easy casserole is baked until bubbly and golden, making it the ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients List for Lasagna Casserole

To make this delicious Lasagna Casserole that serves about 6-8 people, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or Italian sausage)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (optional for extra texture)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 2 cups ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese for a lighter option)
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or more to taste)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, bowtie, or any short pasta)
• 2 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Ingredients List for Additional Variations

Here are a few extra ingredients and variations to customize your Lasagna Casserole to suit your preferences:

• Vegetarian option: Replace the meat with mushrooms, spinach, or a mix of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant.
• For extra flavor: Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the sauce for depth.
• Different cheeses: Try using a mix of cheeses like provolone, fontina, or even gouda for a twist on the classic flavor.
• Creamy version: Add a béchamel sauce layer for a creamier casserole.
• Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta: Swap out regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties to meet dietary needs.

Substitutions and Variations

This Lasagna Casserole Recipe is flexible, so don’t hesitate to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste. Here are some suggestions:

1. Ground Beef Substitutes: Italian sausage adds extra flavor, but you can also use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even a meatless substitute like plant-based ground beef.
2. Pasta Choices: Any short pasta will work well in this dish. Penne, rigatoni, rotini, or bowtie pasta are great options. For a lower-carb option, you can even try zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
3. Cheese Options: While mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan are the traditional cheeses in lasagna, feel free to experiment with provolone, fontina, or even a sprinkle of smoked gouda for an added depth of flavor.
4. Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian lasagna casserole, replace the meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or even eggplant. You can also add a layer of sautéed vegetables between the pasta and cheese layers.
5. Sauce Variations: Instead of marinara, try using a tomato basil sauce or a vodka sauce for a different flavor. For a creamy lasagna casserole, add a layer of béchamel or Alfredo sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Lasagna Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps to make your delicious Lasagna Casserole:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Toss the cooked pasta with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick spray.

Step 3: Brown the Meat and Make the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add the ground beef (or sausage) to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Stir in the marinara sauce, diced tomatoes (if using), Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna Casserole

1. First Layer: Spread half of the cooked pasta evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
2. Second Layer: Pour half of the meat sauce over the pasta, spreading it evenly with a spoon.
3. Third Layer: Drop dollops of the ricotta mixture over the sauce and spread it gently to cover.
4. Final Layers: Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta, meat sauce, and ricotta mixture. Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve warm.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making Lasagna Casserole is straightforward, here are a few tips to avoid common mistakes:

1. Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to cook your pasta just until al dente (firm to the bite). Overcooking the pasta can result in a mushy casserole, especially after baking.
2. Not draining the meat: Be sure to drain any excess fat from the cooked meat to prevent a greasy casserole.
3. Too much liquid in the sauce: If your sauce seems too watery, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken. This will prevent the casserole from being too runny.
4. Forgetting to cover while baking: Cover the casserole with foil for the first part of baking to ensure the cheese doesn’t brown too quickly. Removing the foil later helps the cheese become golden and bubbly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Although this Lasagna Casserole is a comforting, rustic dish, you can still make it look great with a few simple touches.

How to Serve Lasagna Casserole

1. Family-Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a casual, family-style dinner. Let everyone scoop out their portions and dig in!
2. Individual Portions: For a neater presentation, slice the casserole into squares and plate each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil.

Presentation Ideas for Lasagna Casserole

• Fresh Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves to brighten up the dish.
• Serve with a Side Salad: Pair the casserole with a crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Add a Drizzle: Drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top of the casserole for a touch of sweetness and contrast.

Lasagna Casserole Recipe Tips

1. Make it Ahead: This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if baking straight from the fridge.
2. Freeze for Later: This casserole freezes well. Assemble it but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
3. Double the Recipe: If you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers, simply double the ingredients and bake in two separate dishes. Lasagna casserole makes great leftovers and can be easily reheated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles instead of regular pasta?

Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles if you prefer a more traditional lasagna feel. Just layer the noodles directly in the casserole, as they will cook in the sauce while baking.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the meat and add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or eggplant for a hearty vegetarian lasagna casserole.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I add extra cheese?

Yes! Feel free to add extra mozzarella or even other types of cheese like provolone, fontina, or ricotta for an extra cheesy casserole.

Conclusion

This Lasagna Casserole Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining all the best parts of traditional lasagna with the ease of a casserole. Whether you’re feeding a large family, preparing meals for the week, or serving a crowd, this dish is sure to please. With layers of tender pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty cheese, it's a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy!

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