The Best Lasagna Casserole Recipe

Lasagna is a classic comfort food that’s adored by many, and this Lasagna Casserole puts a delicious twist on the traditional recipe. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering, a weeknight dinner, or even a potluck, this casserole delivers a hearty, cheesy, and savory meal that’s bound to satisfy. With layers of seasoned beef, tender pasta, and creamy ricotta filling, it offers the perfect combination of flavors and textures. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of preparing The Best Lasagna Casserole, along with helpful tips, FAQs, and more.

Ingredients for The Best Lasagna Casserole

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients to ensure you have everything on hand. This recipe makes enough for approximately six servings, so you can adjust quantities as needed if you’re cooking for a larger group or want leftovers for the week.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz rotini pasta – Rotini provides a fun, spiraled texture that holds onto sauces beautifully, but you can also use other pasta types like penne or rigatoni.
• 1 lb ground beef – The main protein in this casserole, providing a hearty, savory flavor.
• 1 small onion, diced – Adds a subtle sweetness and texture to the beef mixture.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the flavor of the beef and sauce with its bold, aromatic notes.
• 24 oz marinara sauce – A rich and flavorful sauce, the foundation of the casserole.
• 15 oz ricotta cheese – For the creamy layer that complements the pasta and beef mixture.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melted cheese goodness for both the filling and the topping.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, salty bite to the cheese mixture.
• 1 egg – Helps bind the ricotta mixture and gives it structure.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that enhances the sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to balance and elevate the flavors.
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) – Adds a pop of color and freshness to the final dish.

Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method

Cooking this Lasagna Casserole may seem like a multi-step process, but it’s straightforward and can be broken down into manageable parts. From prepping the pasta to assembling the layers, this guide will walk you through it all.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking. Set the dish aside while you prepare the rest of the recipe.

Step 2: Cook the Rotini Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add 12 oz of rotini pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 8–10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb of ground beef, 1 diced small onion, and 2 cloves of minced garlic until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 7–8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy casserole.

Stir in 24 oz of marinara sauce into the beef mixture. Add 1 tsp of Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Prepare the Ricotta Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, combine 15 oz of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan, and 1 egg. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, then stir until smooth and creamy. This will serve as the delicious creamy layer between the pasta and meat sauce.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Now it’s time to layer the casserole. Start by mixing the cooked rotini into the meat sauce until all the pasta is evenly coated.

In the greased baking dish, spread half of the pasta and meat mixture evenly on the bottom. Next, spoon the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta layer, smoothing it out with a spatula for even distribution. Finally, add the remaining pasta and meat mixture on top.

Step 6: Top with Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella over the top of the casserole. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly.

Bake the covered casserole in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I substitute the rotini pasta with another type of pasta?

Yes, absolutely! While rotini works wonderfully in this casserole because its spirals hold onto the sauce well, you can use any short pasta such as penne, ziti, or rigatoni. The key is to use pasta that can trap the sauce and maintain its texture during baking.

2. Can I make this lasagna casserole ahead of time?

Definitely! This casserole can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the layers as instructed, but instead of baking, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before baking according to the instructions.

3. Can I freeze lasagna casserole?

Yes, lasagna casserole is freezer-friendly. To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the casserole in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

4. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for those looking to reduce their red meat intake. They will still provide a rich and hearty flavor, especially when paired with the marinara sauce and seasonings.

5. What side dishes go well with this lasagna casserole?

This casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. These sides will complement the richness of the casserole and balance the meal with lighter flavors.

6. How do I store leftovers, and how long will they last?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Conclusion

The Best Lasagna Casserole offers all the delightful flavors of a traditional lasagna but with a simpler, quicker preparation process. With savory ground beef, tangy marinara, creamy ricotta cheese, and gooey mozzarella, it’s the ultimate comfort food perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family meal, hosting guests, or meal prepping for the week, this casserole delivers every time.

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