Description
Lazy Lasagna Casserole brings together all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna—savory meat sauce, tender pasta, and melty cheese—in an easy, one-pan bake. With no need for layering or ricotta, this simplified version is perfect for busy nights, potlucks, or whenever you crave lasagna without the work.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or pasta sauce
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 10 oz uncooked rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup cottage cheese or ricotta cheese (optional for creaminess)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish
- Cook pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef or sausage with diced onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess grease
- Stir in marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes
- In the baking dish, mix cooked pasta, meat sauce, half the mozzarella, and cottage cheese or ricotta if using
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden
- Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian version
- Use gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free
- Add spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies
- Can be assembled in advance and baked when ready to serve
Nutrition
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
