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Lazy Lasagna Casserole

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Lazy Lasagna Casserole is a quick and comforting twist on classic lasagna featuring pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy cheeses, and a golden mozzarella topping. This easy family-friendly casserole delivers all the flavors of traditional lasagna with less effort.

Ingredients

  • Pasta such as rotini, penne, or bowtie
  • Ground beef or Italian sausage
  • Onion, diced
  • Garlic, minced
  • Marinara sauce
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Ricotta cheese
  • Cottage cheese (optional)
  • Mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add the onion and cook until softened.
  6. Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
  7. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned.
  8. Drain any excess grease.
  9. Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  10. Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes.
  11. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.
  12. Mix until evenly combined.
  13. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  14. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.
  15. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
  16. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  17. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
  • Add spinach, kale, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
  • Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if preferred.
  • Add red pepper flakes for a spicy variation.
  • Use whole wheat pasta for additional fiber.
  • Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze baked or unbaked casserole for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/lazy-lasagna-casserole/