Lazy Lasagna: A Heartwarming Twist on a Classic
Lazy Lasagna is the answer to your weeknight dinner dilemmas, combining the layers of comfort in traditional lasagna with the ease of a quick-to-make one-pot recipe. Designed to satisfy both cravings and time constraints, this dish celebrates the flavors of Italy in a streamlined way that anyone can master. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for a fast meal to impress friends, this dish makes every bite feel special.
Why Make This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and cooking time make this a go-to meal for any night of the week.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy, saucy goodness, making it great for family dinners.
- Versatile Ingredients: With a few simple swaps, you can customize it to fit dietary needs or personal preferences.
With Lazy Lasagna, you’re not just making dinner; you’re embarking on a culinary journey that prioritizes taste without sacrificing time or effort.
Easy Method for Lazy Lasagna
Ingredients
- 1 lbs. lean ground beef (96/4)
- 1 small white onion, chopped (100g)
- 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. black pepper
- 1 Tbsp. Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp. dried basil
- 4 cups tomato basil pasta sauce (32oz. (I like Rao’s))
- 1/2 cup beef broth (low sodium)
- 8 oz. rigatoni noodles (measured uncooked)
- 4 oz. low moisture part skim mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 4 oz. part skim ricotta cheese
- Fresh chopped basil for garnish
- Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Additional ricotta cheese (optional)
Directions
- Bring a pot of water to a boil for cooking the pasta according to the directions on the box.
- While waiting on the water to boil, heat a large pan over medium heat and brown the ground beef while breaking it into bite-sized pieces.
- When the meat is almost completely cooked through, stir in the chopped onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and dried basil. Cook until fragrant, and the onions are beginning to soften, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and beef broth and set to simmer while you cook the pasta noodles.
- Add the uncooked pasta to boiling water and boil according to the box instructions (about 13 minutes).
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain and add to the pan with the meat sauce. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes while mixing the noodles well to combine fully.
- Add the mozzarella and stir together until fully melted. While the lasagna is still hot, add the ricotta cheese on top and slightly mix throughout the dish.
- Top with freshly chopped basil and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
Storing Leftover Lazy Lasagna
To keep your Lazy Lasagna fresh and delicious for later, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container. Best to consume within 3-4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, place in a freezer-safe container. Can last for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: To use frozen leftovers, thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Best Ways to Serve Lazy Lasagna
- Enjoy it as a hearty main dish complemented by a fresh side salad and crusty bread.
- Pair it with a glass of red wine for a delightful dinner experience.
- Top it off with extra fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil for that gourmet touch.
Tips to Make Lazy Lasagna
- Cook pasta al dente: This ensures it doesn’t turn mushy when mixed with sauce and cheese.
- Use quality sauce: A good-quality pasta sauce can elevate the flavor of your dish significantly.
- Add veggies: Bell peppers or spinach can easily be incorporated for added nutritional benefits and flavor.
Variations
- Meatless Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based protein or lentils for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Swap: For a creamier texture, consider using cottage cheese instead of ricotta.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if desired.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat sauce as it simmers.
Q: Is Lazy Lasagna suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes! It’s an excellent option for meal prep, as it reheats well and can be portioned out for easy lunches.
Lazy Lasagna is the ideal example of comfort food with an accessible and time-conscious twist. It’s a dish that not only fills your stomach but also warms your heart. So grab your ingredients, and get ready for a hearty meal that’s as rewarding to make as it is to enjoy!
Print
Lazy Lasagna
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: None
Description
Lazy Lasagna is a quick and easy one-pot version of the classic dish, combining layers of comfort with minimal prep for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lbs. lean ground beef (96/4)
- 1 small white onion, chopped (100g)
- 1 Tbsp. minced garlic
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. black pepper
- 1 Tbsp. Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp. dried basil
- 4 cups tomato basil pasta sauce (32 oz.)
- 1/2 cup beef broth (low sodium)
- 8 oz. rigatoni noodles (uncooked)
- 4 oz. low moisture part skim mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 4 oz. part skim ricotta cheese
- Fresh chopped basil for garnish
- Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Additional ricotta cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Bring a pot of water to a boil for cooking the pasta according to the directions on the box.
- Heat a large pan over medium heat and brown the ground beef, breaking it into bite-sized pieces.
- When the meat is almost cooked through, stir in the chopped onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and dried basil. Cook until fragrant, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and beef broth and set to simmer.
- Add the uncooked pasta to boiling water and boil for about 13 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and add to the pan with the meat sauce. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine.
- Add the mozzarella and stir until fully melted, then mix in the ricotta cheese.
- Top with fresh basil and sprinkle with parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
To keep leftovers fresh, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.