Indulging in a slice of W-W Easy Meat Lasagna offers a comforting and satisfying experience, combining layers of tender pasta, flavorful meat sauce, and creamy cheese for a delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe simplifies the traditional lasagna-making process without compromising on taste, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Starting with lean ground beef or turkey, the meat sauce is cooked until rich and flavorful, enhanced with aromatic onions, garlic, and Italian seasoning. A jar of marinara sauce adds convenience and depth of flavor, while allowing you to control the level of seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
Layered between al dente lasagna noodles, the meat sauce is complemented by a creamy mixture of low-fat cottage cheese or part-skim ricotta cheese, along with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This cheese layer adds richness and creaminess to each bite, balancing out the savory flavors of the meat sauce.
Baked to perfection in a 9×13 inch baking dish, the lasagna emerges from the oven with bubbly cheese and golden edges, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Once cooled slightly, each slice reveals layers of hearty goodness that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters.
With its balanced nutritional profile and wholesome ingredients, this W-W Easy Meat Lasagna is a comforting and nutritious meal option that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying dinner that everyone will love.
EASY MEAT LASAGNA
Ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles (whole wheat or regular)
- 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese or part-skim ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked meat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
- Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese or ricotta cheese with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.
- To assemble the lasagna, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Place three lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, overlapping slightly to cover the bottom of the dish.
- Spread half of the cheese mixture evenly over the noodles, followed by half of the remaining meat sauce.
- Repeat the layers: lasagna noodles, remaining cheese mixture, remaining meat sauce.
- Finish with a final layer of lasagna noodles and the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the lasagna is heated through.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximately):
- Calories: 300-350
- Total Fat: 10-12 grams
- Saturated Fat: 4-6 grams
- Cholesterol: 40-50 mg
- Sodium: 600-700 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 3-5 grams
- Sugars: 5-7 grams
- Protein: 25-30 grams
This W-W Easy Meat Lasagna is a satisfying and flavorful meal option that’s perfect for feeding your family or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week. Serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal!