lasagna recipe with cottage cheese

Craving a comforting Italian classic? Dive into the world of homemade lasagna, a beloved dish that brings together layers of rich meat sauce, tender noodles, and creamy cottage cheese.

This version swaps the traditional ricotta for cottage cheese, resulting in a lighter, protein-packed filling that’s just as satisfying.

Ingredients List

Creating a mouthwatering lasagna requires a few essential components to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Let’s break down the ingredients needed for each element of this delicious dish.

Meat Sauce Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 large bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef (extra lean preferred)
• 28 ounces tomato sauce
• 3 ounces tomato paste
• 14 ounces canned tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (or white vinegar)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Lasagna Layers

• 1/2 pound lasagna noodles (about 9 large sheets)
• 24 ounces cottage cheese
• 16 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 4 ounces parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Required Kitchen Tools

When preparing lasagna, having the right kitchen tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you will need:

1. Large Skillet or Saucepan: For preparing the meat sauce.
2. Large Pot: To boil the lasagna noodles.
3. 9 x 13-inch Baking Dish: The perfect size for assembling and baking your lasagna.
4. Mixing Bowls: For combining cheeses and prepping ingredients.
5. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring the sauce and layering the lasagna.
6. Aluminum Foil: To cover the lasagna during baking.
7. Sharp Knife: For slicing and serving the finished dish.

Having these tools on hand will set you up for a successful lasagna-making experience.

Meat Sauce Preparation

A flavorful meat sauce is the heart of any great lasagna. Follow these steps to create a rich, savory sauce that will infuse every layer with Italian-inspired goodness.

Cooking the Meat Sauce

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In a large non-stick skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef:
   Add the ground beef to the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is no longer pink and is nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
   Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and canned tomatoes. Add the dried oregano, Italian seasoning, red wine vinegar, and salt. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
4. Simmer the Sauce:
   Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

This hearty meat sauce will serve as the foundation for your lasagna layers, providing depth and richness in every bite.

Assembling the Lasagna

Building the perfect lasagna is all about layering flavors and textures. Follow these steps to assemble your dish for a beautiful, cheesy result.

Layering the Lasagna

1. Preheat and Prepare:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
2. Cook the Noodles:
   If using traditional lasagna noodles, cook them according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. (If using no-boil noodles, you can skip this step.)
3. Start with Sauce:
   Spread a thin layer of the prepared meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. This prevents the noodles from sticking and adds flavor to every bite.
4. First Layer:
   Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping if needed. Spoon 1/3 of the cottage cheese evenly over the noodles, then sprinkle 1/3 of the shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Add another layer of meat sauce.
5. Repeat Layers:
   Continue layering: noodles, cottage cheese, mozzarella, and meat sauce, until all the noodles are used. You should have three layers in total.
6. Final Cheese Topping:
   Finish with a final layer of meat sauce, then top with the remaining mozzarella and all of the freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Baking the Lasagna

1. Cover and Bake:
   Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
2. Uncover and Brown:
   Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
3. Rest Before Serving:
   Let the lasagna cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Serving and Decoration

When it comes to serving and presenting your lasagna, a few thoughtful touches can turn this classic comfort food into a memorable meal. Here are some tips to ensure your lasagna looks as good as it tastes:

Suggested Toppings and Sides

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the lasagna just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Extra Parmesan: Offer additional grated parmesan at the table for those who love a cheesy finish.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A few turns of freshly cracked black pepper can enhance the flavors.
• Side Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the lasagna.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is a classic accompaniment.

Storage Instructions

Lasagna is a fantastic make-ahead dish and stores beautifully for leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

How to Store Lasagna

• Refrigerator:
  Allow the lasagna to cool completely, then cover the baking dish tightly with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezer:
  For longer storage, wrap individual portions or the entire lasagna tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (180°C) until heated through.

Conclusion

Mastering a lasagna recipe with cottage cheese opens up a world of delicious, family-friendly possibilities. The creamy cottage cheese, savory meat sauce, and gooey mozzarella create a comforting dish that’s both hearty and satisfying.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily recreate this Italian favorite in your own kitchen. Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own twist with extra veggies or different cheeses, homemade lasagna is always a crowd-pleaser.

With proper storage, you can enjoy leftovers for days or freeze portions for a quick meal anytime. So gather your ingredients, layer up, and savor every bite of this timeless comfort food!