Easy No-Boil Lasagna Recipe: A Weeknight Winner
Lasagna is a classic comfort food, but the prep time can often be a deterrent. This recipe cuts down on cooking time significantly by using no-boil noodles! This means less prep work and a quicker meal, perfect for busy weeknights. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and surprisingly easy lasagna.
Why Use No-Boil Noodles?
No-boil lasagna noodles are a game-changer. They eliminate the need for pre-boiling, saving you valuable time and effort. They also tend to hold their shape better during baking, resulting in a more satisfying final product. Simply layer them directly into your baking dish – no fuss, no muss!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound No-Boil Lasagna Noodles: This is the key ingredient to our time-saving method!
- 1 pound Ground Beef (or Italian Sausage): Choose your favorite!
- 1 large Onion, chopped: Adds a lovely sweetness and texture.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Essential for that aromatic Italian flavor.
- 2 (28 ounce) cans Crushed Tomatoes: The base of our rich and flavorful sauce.
- 1 (15 ounce) can Tomato Sauce: Adds extra depth and richness to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano: A classic Italian herb that adds warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Basil: Another essential Italian herb for a balanced flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt: To taste. Adjust as needed.
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: To taste.
- 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and essential for a classic lasagna.
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, sharp flavor.
- 1 egg, lightly beaten: Helps bind the ricotta mixture.
- 3 cups Mozzarella Cheese, shredded: For that melty, gooey top layer.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce
- Brown the ground beef (or sausage) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, and cook for at least 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Layer 3-4 no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Top with half of the remaining meat sauce.
- Repeat layers: noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce.
- Top with the remaining noodles and the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 3: Bake and Serve
- Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the lasagna is heated through. Let it stand for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Tips and Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to your meat sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a little kick.
- Use different cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like provolone or fontina.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and bake when ready.
This no-boil lasagna recipe is a delicious and convenient option for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Enjoy! Remember to share your creations using #noboillasagna #easylasagnarecipe!
