Lasagna Dip

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lasagna Dip is a delicious and fun twist on traditional lasagna. It’s perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night in with family and friends. Combining all the rich, cheesy layers of classic lasagna into a dip form makes it easy to serve and share. With a creamy, cheesy base, hearty marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella on top, every bite is a burst of flavor that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re a fan of lasagna or just love cheesy dips, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 small onion, chopped

  • 1 (15 oz) can of tomato sauce

  • 1 (6 oz) can of tomato paste

  • 1 (14.5 oz) can of crushed tomatoes

  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

  • 2 cups ricotta cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional)

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

Directions

  1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

  2. Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  3. While the sauce is simmering, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

  4. In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella. Mix until smooth.

  5. Transfer the beef mixture into a baking dish (8×8-inch or similar). Spread the ricotta mixture evenly on top of the beef mixture.

  6. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella over the ricotta layer.

  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

  9. Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 8-10

  • Prep time: 15 minutes

  • Cook time: 30 minutes

  • Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

  • Vegetarian version: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of bell peppers and zucchini for a lighter, veggie-packed version.

  • Spicy version: Add more red pepper flakes or mix in some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.

  • Cheese overload: For a cheesier dip, increase the amount of mozzarella or even add some provolone or fontina.

  • Make it creamy: For a richer dip, add a layer of cream cheese or sour cream into the ricotta mixture.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

  • Reheating: To reheat, microwave the dip in a microwave-safe dish in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until warm. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil.

FAQs

1. Can I make Lasagna Dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dip up to a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or use a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a different flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the ground beef with vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a meatless version.

4. Can I freeze Lasagna Dip?

Yes, you can freeze the dip before baking it. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.

5. What do I serve with Lasagna Dip?

Lasagna Dip is great with tortilla chips, crackers, garlic bread, or fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and cucumber.

6. Can I make this dip spicier?

If you love spice, you can add more red pepper flakes or even fresh chopped jalapeños to the sauce for an extra kick.

7. Is there a gluten-free version of this dip?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to serve it with gluten-free chips or crackers if needed.

8. How do I keep the dip from getting too dry?

Make sure to cover the dip with foil while baking to prevent it from drying out. You can also add more sauce if needed to maintain moisture.

9. Can I add other seasonings to the sauce?

Definitely! Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking by adding more garlic, onion powder, oregano, or even a splash of red wine for extra depth of flavor.

10. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Brown the beef and onions in a skillet, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Conclusion

Lasagna Dip is a fun and flavorful twist on the traditional lasagna that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. With its cheesy layers, savory sauce, and meaty goodness, it offers all the flavors of lasagna in a dip form, making it easy to serve and enjoy. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a comforting snack, this dip is the perfect choice. Plus, with plenty of variations to make it your own, you’ll find this recipe to be a crowd-pleaser every time!

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Lasagna Dip

Lasagna Dip

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Lasagna Dip is a savory, cheesy twist on classic lasagna. Perfect for game days, parties, or cozy family nights, this easy-to-make dip combines all the delicious layers of lasagna into a cheesy, flavorful dip. With ground beef, marinara sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, this dip is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Customize it to your taste with veggie, spicy, or extra cheesy versions. Try this Lasagna Dip for your next gathering or as a comforting snack!

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 15min
  • Cook Time: 30min
  • Total Time: 45min
  • Yield: 8-10 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 small onion, chopped

1 (15 oz) can of tomato sauce

1 (6 oz) can of tomato paste

1 (14.5 oz) can of crushed tomatoes

1 tbsp Italian seasoning

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

2 cups ricotta cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)

2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (optional)

Instructions

  • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

  • Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

  • In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella. Mix until smooth.

  • Transfer the beef mixture into a baking dish (8×8-inch or similar). Spread the ricotta mixture evenly on top of the beef mixture.

  • Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella over the ricotta layer.

  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

  • Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh basil before serving.

Notes

  • You can make this dip ahead of time by preparing it the day before, refrigerating it, and baking it the day of.

  • Add more mozzarella or try provolone for a cheesier version.

  • For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add chopped jalapeños.

  • This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but serve with gluten-free crackers or chips if needed.

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