Oh, lasagna casserole with ricotta! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, isn’t it? This dish has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and every time I make it, I’m reminded of family gatherings where everyone would dig in with smiles on their faces. The layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella create a symphony of flavors that just scream comfort food. Plus, it’s so versatile! You can tweak it based on what you have on hand or what cravings hit you. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive occasion, this casserole is sure to please a crowd and bring everyone together. Trust me, once you dive into this delicious masterpiece, you won’t want to share!

Ingredients List

• 12 lasagna noodles (uncooked)
• 2 cups ricotta cheese (smooth and creamy)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (preferably part-skim for better melting)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for the best flavor)
• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean for a good balance of flavor and moisture)
• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade, whichever you love most)
• 1 large egg (for binding the ricotta mixture)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (for that aromatic kick)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or a mix of Italian herbs)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil (for a classic flavor profile)
• Salt to taste (I usually go for about a teaspoon)
• Pepper to taste (freshly cracked is best)

These ingredients come together to create a hearty and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Don’t hesitate to adjust based on your taste or what you have in your pantry—it’s all about making it your own!

How to Prepare *Lasagna Casserole with Ricotta*

Preheat and Cook Lasagna Noodles

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This is where you’ll cook your lasagna noodles! Carefully add the 12 uncooked noodles, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until they’re al dente. You don’t want them too soft since they’ll continue to cook in the oven. Once done, drain the noodles in a colander and give them a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to keep them from sticking together.

Prepare the Meat Sauce

Now, let’s move on to the star of the show—the meat sauce! In a large skillet, brown 1 pound each of ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks, ensuring it gets a nice, even browning. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet—this helps keep your casserole from being greasy. Add in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil, stirring everything together for about a minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the 2 cups of marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Assemble the Casserole Layers

It’s time to layer up! Start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Then, place 3 lasagna noodles on top. Next, spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the meat sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layering process until you’re out of ingredients, finishing with a layer of noodles, the remaining meat sauce, and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Make sure you spread everything evenly; this ensures every bite is packed with flavor.

Baking and Resting

Cover your casserole with foil and pop it in the oven for 25 minutes. This helps everything cook through and stay moist. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. When it’s done, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This step is crucial! It allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve. Plus, the flavors have a chance to deepen and harmonize beautifully. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk nutrition! Keep in mind that the values can vary depending on the ingredients you choose and their brands, so these numbers are just estimates to give you a ballpark idea. For a single slice of this delicious lasagna casserole with ricotta, you’re looking at roughly 450 calories. It packs in about 25 grams of fat, with 10 grams being saturated fat. You’ll also get around 30 grams of protein, making it a hearty option, especially if you’re feeding a crowd. In terms of carbohydrates, it contains about 35 grams, along with 2 grams of fiber to keep things balanced. Just remember to adjust portions and ingredients according to your dietary needs, and enjoy every cheesy, meaty bite!

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Remember, you want your noodles al dente! They’ll soak up moisture from the sauce while baking, so if they’re too soft going in, you’ll end up with a mushy casserole.
• Layering is Key: Make sure each layer is even and well-distributed. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully and ensures every bite is just as delicious as the last.
• Let It Rest: I can’t stress this enough! Allowing the casserole to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking is crucial for setting those layers. It makes serving easier and enhances the flavors.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix up your cheeses! If you love a more robust flavor, try adding some ricotta with herbs or using a sharp cheddar for a twist.
• Save Some Sauce: Reserve a bit of marinara to drizzle on top just before serving. It not only looks pretty but also adds an extra burst of flavor that everyone will love!

Variations on *Lasagna Casserole with Ricotta*

One of the best things about lasagna casserole with ricotta is its incredible versatility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. For a veggie-packed version, consider adding layers of sautéed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms—these not only boost nutrition but also add a lovely texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping the ground beef and sausage for a mix of ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish.

Cheese lovers can experiment with different types of cheese, like adding a layer of creamy goat cheese or sharp provolone for an extra flavor punch. And if you want a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños in the meat sauce. Whatever you choose, the possibilities are endless, so have fun with it and make it your own!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your lasagna casserole with ricotta, consider pairing it with a simple mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens will complement the richness of the casserole beautifully. You could also serve some garlic bread on the side, perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce left on the plate. For a touch of elegance, sprinkle fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of balsamic glaze over the top before serving. It not only looks stunning but adds a burst of flavor too! Enjoy your meal with a nice glass of red wine for the ultimate Italian feast experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your lasagna casserole with ricotta properly is key to enjoying those leftovers! Once your casserole has cooled to room temperature, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, I recommend freezing it! Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn—using a freezer-safe container or double-wrapping it in plastic wrap and foil works great. It can last in the freezer for about 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy those delicious leftovers, reheating is a breeze! For the best results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it from drying out and heat for about 25-30 minutes. If you’re reheating individual slices, just pop them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, checking to make sure they’re heated through. Enjoy that cheesy goodness again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this lasagna casserole is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Feeds a Crowd: This hearty casserole generously serves 8, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.
• Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, whether you want to add veggies or change up the cheeses.
• Leftovers for Days: The flavors only get better as it sits, so you’ll enjoy delicious leftovers for days to come!

Lasagna Casserole with Ricotta: 5 Steps to Comfort Food Bliss

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious lasagna casserole with layers of ricotta cheese and meat sauce.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a skillet, cook the ground beef and sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Add garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
6. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
7. Layer 3 noodles over the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, then half of the meat sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella.
8. Repeat layers, finishing with noodles, meat sauce, and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
10. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Variations can include adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
• For a spicier version, add crushed red pepper to the meat sauce.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for added flavor and presentation.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: lasagna casserole with ricotta, Italian lasagna, baked pasta dishes