Name: Easy Homemade Lasagna With Cottage Cheese: Better Than Store-Bought
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 1 clove garlic, chopped; 1 pound ground beef chuck; 1 pound canned tomatoes; 16 ounces tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1/2 teaspoon basil; 1/2 teaspoon oregano; 2 teaspoons sugar; 1 pound cottage cheese; 1/2 pound mozzarella cheese, sliced; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese; 10 ounces lasagna noodles

Lasagna is a classic Italian dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, and making it at home can be a truly rewarding experience. Today, we’re diving into a recipe for Easy Homemade Lasagna With Cottage Cheese: Better Than Store-Bought. This version features a creamy cottage cheese filling that elevates the traditional flavors, making it a delightful twist that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With layers of savory beef, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese, this lasagna will have you skipping the store-bought varieties for good!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This lasagna stands out for several reasons. First, the use of cottage cheese adds a unique creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the meat and tomato layers. Secondly, the combination of spices infuses the dish with flavor, turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Lastly, it’s simple to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you try this Easy Homemade Lasagna With Cottage Cheese: Better Than Store-Bought, you won’t want to go back to the pre-packaged versions.

Your Shopping Guide

Before you start cooking, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 clove garlic, chopped
1 pound ground beef chuck
1 pound canned tomatoes
16 ounces tomato sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon basil
1/2 teaspoon oregano
2 teaspoons sugar
1 pound cottage cheese
1 egg
1/2 pound mozzarella cheese, sliced
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
10 ounces lasagna noodles

Gear Up: What to Grab

Before you start layering those delicious ingredients, make sure you have the right kitchen tools:

Large skillet for cooking the meat and sauce
Mixing bowl for the cottage cheese mixture
Baking dish (9×13 inches works perfectly)
Pot for boiling lasagna noodles
Wooden spoon for stirring
Aluminum foil for covering the lasagna while it cooks

Build Easy Homemade Lasagna With Cottage Cheese: Better Than Store-Bought Step by Step

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create your Easy Homemade Lasagna With Cottage Cheese: Better Than Store-Bought.

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

Add the 1 pound of ground beef chuck to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the 1 pound of canned tomatoes, 16 ounces of tomato sauce, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of basil, 1/2 teaspoon of oregano, and 2 teaspoons of sugar. Let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Mix the Cottage Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the 1 pound of cottage cheese with 1 egg. Mix well until smooth and creamy. This will be your delicious filling!

Step 5: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Noodles

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, cook the 10 ounces of lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and lay them flat on a towel to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Layer the Lasagna

In a 9×13 baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce at the bottom. Place 3-4 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the cottage cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of mozzarella cheese (about half of the 1/2 pound). Repeat the layers, finishing with a final layer of meat sauce and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 7: Bake the Lasagna

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Smart Substitutions

Not everyone has the same taste preferences, and that’s perfectly okay! Here are some smart substitutions you can make:

Ground turkey or chicken can replace ground beef for a lighter version.
Ricotta cheese can be used instead of cottage cheese for a creamier texture.
Use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for a more vibrant flavor.
Whole wheat or gluten-free lasagna noodles can be used for a healthier option.

Cook’s Notes

Let the lasagna sit for a few minutes before cutting; this helps it hold its shape better.
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the meat sauce for added nutrition.
This recipe is perfect for meal prep; you can make it ahead of time and reheat it when needed.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so delicious), here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your Easy Homemade Lasagna With Cottage Cheese: Better Than Store-Bought:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, wrap the lasagna tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, usually about 20-30 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe?

Absolutely! No-boil lasagna noodles can save you time. Just layer them directly into the dish with the sauce, and they will cook in the oven.

Is there a vegetarian version of this lasagna?

Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the ground beef and adding layers of your favorite vegetables, like zucchini, mushrooms, or even using a recipe like Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Rolls Recipe.

How do I know when the lasagna is done baking?

The lasagna is done when the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly, and the edges are gently bubbling. Let it rest for a bit before serving.

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the refrigerator.

Desserts to Finish

Complete your meal with a delightful dessert! Here are some options:

Chocolate Lava Cake – A rich and gooey treat.
Classic Tiramisu – A perfect coffee-flavored finish.
Homemade Cheesecake – Creamy and delicious!
Fruit Tart – A light and refreshing option.

Final Bite

This Easy Homemade Lasagna With Cottage Cheese: Better Than Store-Bought is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The layers of flavor, the creamy texture, and the satisfaction of making it yourself will have you falling in love with this dish all over again. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this lasagna is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy every cheesy, meaty, and flavorful bite!