If you’re looking for a comforting meal that combines the best of lasagna and casserole, look no further than this cheesy lasagna hotdish. It’s packed with layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, and gooey cheese, making it a favorite for family dinners and potlucks. This recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that comes together easily and bakes to perfection.
Imagine digging into a warm, bubbling dish filled with tender noodles, savory ground beef, and a blend of cheeses melting into one delicious bite. This lasagna hotdish is great for busy weeknights, as you can prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
This casserole is not only satisfying but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, whether that’s adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini or using ricotta cheese for an even creamier texture.
Delicious Cheesy Lasagna Hotdish Casserole
This lasagna hotdish offers a hearty experience, showcasing layers of tender pasta combined with a rich meat sauce crafted from ground beef and tomatoes.
As it bakes, the ingredients meld harmoniously, creating a comforting meal perfect for gatherings or cozy family nights. The appearance is nothing short of inviting, with golden-brown cheese bubbling at the top.
A Perfect Comfort Food
Lasagna hotdish is synonymous with comfort food, bringing warmth and satisfaction to your table. Each slice reveals a delightful balance of flavors and textures, from the creamy ricotta to the gooey mozzarella.
Whether hosting a potluck or serving your family on a busy weeknight, this dish is sure to impress. It’s a favorite that resonates with people of all ages, making it a staple in many kitchens.
Customize Your Casserole
This recipe is wonderfully versatile; you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences. Consider adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the meat sauce for some extra nutrition.
Substituting or blending different cheeses can also enhance its creaminess or introduce new flavors. Each variation allows for creativity while maintaining the comforting essence of the traditional hotdish.
Layering Made Easy
Creating the layers in this casserole is a straightforward process. Start with a generous spread of the meat sauce at the bottom, followed by the cooked lasagna noodles.
Then, alternate between the ricotta mixture and mozzarella cheese, repeating until you’ve used all your ingredients. This method not only ensures balanced flavors in every bite but also contributes to an impressive presentation.
Perfect for Meal Prepping
One of the significant advantages of this lasagna hotdish is its suitability for meal prepping. You can prepare it in advance, making it an excellent option for busy schedules.
Simply assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This convenience means you can enjoy a home-cooked meal without the last-minute rush.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked to perfection, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve.
Garnish with fresh basil to enhance the presentation and flavor. Pair it with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s hard to resist.
Delicious Cheesy Lasagna Hotdish Casserole
This lasagna hotdish is a hearty meal featuring layers of cooked pasta, a rich meat sauce made from ground beef and tomatoes, and generous amounts of mozzarella and ricotta cheese. The flavors meld beautifully as it bakes, resulting in a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Layer the Casserole: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce. Place 4 cooked lasagna noodles on top. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles (mix ricotta with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper). Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with the remaining meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 400kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g