Lasagna Casserole Recipe

Lasagna is a classic comfort dish, beloved for its layers of pasta, savory meat, rich sauce, and gooey cheese. But making a traditional lasagna can take time. Enter the Lasagna Casserole – all the mouthwatering flavors of lasagna, with less effort! Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or just when you’re craving that cozy Italian comfort food. Keep reading to discover this easy recipe, complete with cooking tips, substitutions, and presentation ideas to wow your guests!

What Is Lasagna Casserole?

A Lasagna Casserole is a hearty, baked pasta dish that has all the components of a traditional lasagna but with a twist. Instead of layering long sheets of lasagna noodles, this dish uses rotini pasta for convenience. The sauce is mixed with ground beef, cheese, and seasonings, then baked to perfection. The result? A casserole that gives you the rich, savory taste of lasagna in less time and with fewer steps.

Ingredients List for Lasagna Casserole

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups rotini pasta – You can also use other short pasta varieties, like penne or rigatoni, if you prefer.
• 1 pound of ground beef – Ground turkey or Italian sausage are great alternatives if you want to switch it up.
• 1 large sweet onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 1 cup cottage cheese – Adds creaminess. You can substitute with ricotta cheese for a more traditional flavor.
• 1 24-ounce jar of pasta sauce – Choose your favorite marinara or tomato sauce. You can even use homemade sauce for a personal touch.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust to your preference.
• 8 ounces of mozzarella cheese, shredded – For that gooey, cheesy finish.

Additional Ingredients You Can Include

You can also add extra layers of flavor and texture to your Lasagna Casserole by incorporating some of these ingredients:

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, salty flavor that pairs perfectly with mozzarella.
• ½ cup spinach or kale – Sneak in some greens for extra nutrition without compromising the taste.
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced – For an earthy flavor that complements the beef and sauce.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano – For a boost of Italian flavor.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes – Adds a little heat to the dish.
• ½ cup of black olives, sliced – Brings a briny contrast to the richness of the cheese and meat.

Substitutions and Variations

Whether you have dietary restrictions or just want to try something different, there are plenty of ways to modify this Lasagna Casserole recipe:

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free rotini or another gluten-free pasta, and make sure the pasta sauce you choose is gluten-free.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the ground beef and use a plant-based alternative or a medley of vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers. You can also add lentils for extra protein.
• Cheese Swap: Ricotta cheese can easily replace cottage cheese if you prefer a more authentic lasagna flavor. You can also use a blend of cheeses like provolone, gouda, or cheddar for a unique twist.
• Meat Variations: Ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage are excellent alternatives to ground beef. They add different textures and flavors while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
• Low-Carb Option: Instead of pasta, you can use zucchini or eggplant slices to make a low-carb lasagna casserole. Just slice the veggies thinly and layer them like you would with pasta.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of water. Add a pinch of salt and bring it to a rolling boil. Cook the 2 cups of rotini pasta until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

3. Sauté the Onions

In the same skillet, add the diced sweet onion to the browned beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become soft and translucent.

4. Add the Sauce

Pour the 24-ounce jar of pasta sauce into the skillet with the ground beef and onions. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer on low for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Mix Pasta and Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the beef sauce mixture. Stir to ensure the sauce evenly coats the pasta.

6. Layer the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, add half of the pasta and sauce mixture. Spread it evenly across the bottom.

7. Add Cheese Layers

Spread 1 cup of cottage cheese (or ricotta if substituting) over the pasta layer. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat with the remaining pasta mixture and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

8. Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you like a crispy top, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is simple, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome:

• Overcooking the pasta: Be sure to cook the rotini until al dente, as the pasta will continue to cook when baked in the oven. Overcooking can make it mushy.
• Not draining the beef properly: Excess grease can make the casserole too oily. Be sure to drain the fat after browning the meat.
• Skipping the cheese layering: The layers of cheese in the middle make a huge difference in texture and flavor. Don’t skimp on the cheese!
• Forgetting to season: Make sure to season both the beef and the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Undersalted dishes can be bland.

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

1. Prepare your ingredients by chopping the onion, shredding the cheese, and cooking the pasta and ground beef.
2. Mix everything together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the meat sauce.
3. Layer the casserole, alternating between the pasta mix and cheese.
4. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
5. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving so it holds its shape when you cut into it.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Lasagna Casserole is a rustic, comforting dish, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be beautifully presented. Here are some ideas for plating:

How to Serve Lasagna Casserole

• Portion control: Use a spatula to serve even squares. This helps the casserole keep its shape and makes for neat, presentable servings.
• Family style: Place the entire baking dish on the table and let everyone help themselves. It’s a great dish for feeding a crowd.
• Individual portions: Serve in small oven-safe ramekins for individual servings. This is perfect for dinner parties or more formal gatherings.

Presentation Ideas for Lasagna Casserole

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds color and a pop of fresh flavor.
• Add some Parmesan: Shave some fresh Parmesan on top of each portion for an extra touch of elegance.
• Serve with a side salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the casserole.

Lasagna Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. After assembling, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Double the recipe: This dish is perfect for meal prepping. Double the recipe and freeze one casserole for later use.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle will work great in this recipe.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just substitute the ground beef with a plant-based alternative or use extra vegetables.

How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftover Lasagna Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Can I freeze cooked Lasagna Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze cooked portions. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Lasagna Casserole recipe is the perfect solution when you crave lasagna but don’t have the time for a traditional layered version. With its easy-to-follow steps and versatile ingredient list, it’s a dish you’ll turn to again and again. From busy weeknights to casual family gatherings, this casserole offers comfort, flavor, and simplicity in every bite. Try it out today, and don’t forget to customize it to your taste with different meats, cheeses, or veggies. Enjoy!

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