Slow Baked Lasagna Casserole
Highlighted under: Ultimate Comfort Bites
Discover the comforting layers of flavor in this slow baked lasagna casserole, a perfect dish for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
This slow baked lasagna casserole is a family favorite that combines layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheese for an unforgettable meal. The long baking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even better the next day!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying, perfect for feeding a crowd
- Layers of gooey cheese and savory meat sauce
- Can be prepared in advance and baked later
The Perfect Comfort Food
There's something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy lasagna casserole. This dish not only warms the heart but also fills the stomach, making it an ideal meal for chilly evenings or family gatherings. With its rich layers and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or a casual weeknight meal, this slow baked lasagna casserole brings a sense of home and love to every bite.
The combination of ground beef and Italian sausage creates a savory and robust meat sauce that pairs perfectly with the creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella. Each layer brings its own unique texture and flavor, resulting in a delightful culinary experience. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible, making it hard to wait until it's ready to serve!
Make-Ahead Convenience
One of the best aspects of this slow baked lasagna casserole is its make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the entire dish in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on busy days. Simply assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This feature makes it an excellent choice for meal prep or hosting friends and family.
When you’re ready to enjoy your lasagna, just pop it in the oven and let it bake to perfection. This means you can spend more time with your loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen. Plus, it’s always a pleasure to serve a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, from kids to adults.
Customizable Layers
This slow baked lasagna casserole is wonderfully customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary preferences and tastes. Feel free to substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition. The possibilities are endless, making it easy to create a dish that everyone will love.
You can also switch up the cheeses used in the recipe. If you're a fan of more pungent flavors, try adding goat cheese or blue cheese to your ricotta mixture. Experimenting with different ingredients means that you can enjoy this classic comfort food in a new and exciting way each time you make it.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to prepare your slow baked lasagna casserole:
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready for assembly.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your lasagna casserole:
Cook the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, and garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain excess fat and stir in marinara sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
Assemble the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer 3 lasagna noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, and a third of the mozzarella cheese.
Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Your delicious slow baked lasagna casserole is now ready to serve!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider using fresh basil or spinach in the layers. You can also substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your slow baked lasagna casserole with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that will satisfy any appetite. The crispness of the salad offers a delightful contrast to the rich, cheesy layers of the lasagna. Additionally, a light vinaigrette can help balance the heaviness of the dish, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience.
For a more festive occasion, consider serving it alongside a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot. The robust flavors of the wine complement the savory meat sauce beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your meal.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers (though they are often hard to come by!), storing your slow baked lasagna casserole is simple. Allow it to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, or frozen for up to three months. Just remember to label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
To reheat, simply thaw if frozen, then place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal. Just cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Enjoying the leftovers will remind you of the delicious meal you had, making it a wonderful option for busy days.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This lasagna freezes well. Just ensure it's tightly wrapped and stored in an airtight container.
→ What can I serve with lasagna?
A fresh salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with lasagna for a complete meal.
→ How long does it take to reheat?
To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
Slow Baked Lasagna Casserole
Discover the comforting layers of flavor in this slow baked lasagna casserole, a perfect dish for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Created by: Tina
Recipe Type: Ultimate Comfort Bites
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, and garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain excess fat and stir in marinara sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes.
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer 3 lasagna noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, and a third of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with meat sauce and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider using fresh basil or spinach in the layers. You can also substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g