Dinner

Easy Holiday Lasagna

Name: Easy Holiday Lasagna
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 lasagna noodles; 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage; 3 cups ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 egg; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried); Salt and pepper to taste

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Easy Holiday Lasagna is not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming dish that brings people together. Ideal for festive gatherings, this lasagna combines layers of rich flavor with a comforting, cheesy texture. Every bite is a blend of savory beef or sausage, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, all nested between smooth pasta sheets. Perfect for a family dinner or a holiday potluck, this recipe saves you time without sacrificing taste, ensuring that you can enjoy both cooking and company during the busy season.

Why Make This Easy Holiday Lasagna

This Easy Holiday Lasagna is a fantastic choice for multiple reasons. First, it’s straightforward enough for cooks of any skill level, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy. Also, it’s a make-ahead marvel; you can assemble it beforehand and pop it in the oven when it’s time to eat. This versatility allows you to spend more time with your loved ones rather than in the kitchen. Plus, who doesn’t love layers of cheese and rich marinara sauce? The warm, inviting aroma will fill your home, making your holiday gathering feel extra special.

How to Make Easy Holiday Lasagna

Making Easy Holiday Lasagna is a breeze and involves just a few simple steps. Start by cooking the lasagna noodles until they’re al dente. Brown your choice of ground beef or Italian sausage, mix it with creamy ricotta and seasonings, and then assemble your dish layer by layer. The result is a luscious, cheesy, and flavorful lasagna that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

12 lasagna noodles
1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
3 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups marinara sauce
1 egg
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried)
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
In a skillet, cook the ground beef or sausage over medium heat until browned; drain excess fat.
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Layer 4 lasagna noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, half of the meat, and a third of the mozzarella. Repeat layers, ending with noodles and marinara sauce on top.
Sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approximately 1/8 of the lasagna):

Calories: 350
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 700mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 22g

How to Serve Easy Holiday Lasagna

This lasagna is perfect as a main dish for family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Serve it with a fresh green salad and some crusty garlic bread to round out the meal. For a festive touch, garnish it with a sprinkle of parsley or a drizzle of olive oil before serving. This dish is sure to impress both family and friends!

How to Store Easy Holiday Lasagna

Leftovers? No problem! Once cooled, cover the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. Wrap the dish in foil or transfer individual servings to airtight containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Holiday Lasagna

Noodle Tips: To prevent sticking, lightly coat the cooked noodles with a bit of olive oil.
Choosing Meat: For a healthier option, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or sausage.
Cheese Substitutions: If you’re looking for a lighter version, use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella.
Make it Ahead: This lasagna can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the fridge until baking.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to customize this lasagna to suit your taste! Here are a few ideas:

Vegetarian Lasagna: Swap the meat for sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach.
Add Pesto: Mix some pesto into the ricotta for an herby twist.
Spicy Kick: Toss in some crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles? Yes! No-boil lasagna noodles work well in this recipe, but make sure to add a little extra marinara sauce to keep it moist.
Can I make it gluten-free? Absolutely! Use gluten-free lasagna noodles, and ensure that all your ingredients, especially the sauces and cheeses, are gluten-free.
How do I know when it’s done baking? Your lasagna is ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out warm.

Conclusion

Easy Holiday Lasagna is truly a dish that captures the spirit of festive gatherings and family togetherness. Its rich flavors, creamy textures, and customizable elements make it a versatile meal for any occasion. By following this simple recipe, you can create a lasagna that delights everyone at the table. So why not gather your loved ones and prepare this delicious dish together? Enjoy the warmth and joy that comes with each serving, and let us know how it turned out! Happy cooking!