Easy Lazy Day Lasagna

This Easy Lazy Day Lasagna is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Packed with layers of tender noodles, savory meat sauce, and gooey cheese, this lasagna is a family favorite. With a few simple tricks, you can achieve lasagna perfection in just over an hour, making it ideal for anyone short on time but craving homemade comfort food.

Ingredients

• 24 ounces marinara sauce or pasta sauce – your favorite brand
• 10 ounces dry lasagna noodles (no-boil or regular noodles work)
• 1 pound lean ground beef or half beef
• ⅔ cup water
• 15 ounces ricotta or cottage cheese
• 12 ounces mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Lightly spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
3. Spread ⅔ cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish.
4. Layer lasagna noodles over the sauce.
5. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet, then drain excess fat.
6. Add the remaining marinara sauce and ⅔ cup water to the skillet, stirring to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Spread one-third of the ricotta over the noodles, sprinkle 3 ounces of mozzarella, and add one-third of the meat sauce.
8. Add another layer of noodles, pressing slightly, then repeat the ricotta, mozzarella, and meat sauce layering two more times.
9. Top with remaining mozzarella and sprinkle Italian seasoning on top.
10. Cover with foil and bake 45 minutes until noodles are tender. Remove foil and bake an additional 7-8 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
11. Let rest 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve with garlic bread or a simple green salad to complete the meal.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• Freeze uncooked or baked lasagna for up to three months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Variations

1. Mexican Lasagna
   • Swap the marinara sauce with a combination of salsa and enchilada sauce.
   • Replace ground beef with seasoned taco meat or shredded chicken.
   • Layer in black beans, corn, and a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
   • Finish with fresh cilantro and sliced jalapeños for a zesty twist.
2. Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna
   • Sauté fresh spinach and mushrooms with garlic before layering.
   • Replace half of the meat sauce with a vegetable mixture for a lighter version.
   • Sprinkle in a bit of feta or goat cheese along with mozzarella for extra flavor.
3. Seafood Lasagna
   • Use cooked shrimp, crab, or a combination instead of beef.
   • Swap the marinara for a creamy white sauce like Alfredo or béchamel.
   • Layer in a bit of spinach or asparagus for freshness.
   • Top with mozzarella and Parmesan for a rich, decadent finish.
4. Buffalo Chicken Lasagna
   • Replace ground beef with shredded cooked chicken tossed in buffalo sauce.
   • Use ricotta mixed with blue cheese crumbles or cream cheese.
   • Layer with mozzarella and cheddar cheese for the perfect spicy, cheesy combination.
   • Serve with a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
5. Pesto Lasagna
   • Mix ricotta cheese with basil pesto for a fresh herb flavor.
   • Alternate layers of lasagna noodles, ricotta-pesto mixture, marinara, and mozzarella.
   • Optionally add grilled chicken or vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
6. Three-Cheese Lasagna
   • Use a combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and provolone or fontina cheeses.
   • Skip the meat entirely for a rich, cheesy vegetarian option.
   • Add a layer of Parmesan on top for a golden, bubbly crust.
7. Italian Sausage Lasagna
   • Replace the ground beef with Italian sausage (mild or spicy).
   • Brown the sausage and mix with marinara sauce.
   • Layer as usual with ricotta and mozzarella for an extra flavorful version.
8. Roasted Vegetable Lasagna
   • Roast a mix of zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and carrots.
   • Use a combination of marinara and ricotta cheese for layering.
   • This version is hearty but lighter than a traditional meat lasagna.
9. Cauliflower Crust Lazy Lasagna
   • For a low-carb variation, use thinly sliced roasted cauliflower or a cauliflower “crust” in place of some noodles.
   • Layer with meat sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella as usual.
   • Great for those avoiding gluten or cutting carbs.
10. White Chicken Lasagna
    • Use shredded cooked chicken with a creamy Alfredo sauce instead of marinara.
    • Layer with ricotta, mozzarella, and optionally, spinach or broccoli.
    • A rich, creamy alternative to classic lasagna with a lighter flavor profile.
11. Caprese Lasagna
    • Use sliced fresh tomatoes and mozzarella in place of meat.
    • Layer with ricotta mixed with fresh basil.
    • Drizzle with balsamic glaze after baking for a fresh, summery taste.
12. Breakfast Lasagna
    • Use cooked breakfast sausage, scrambled eggs, and hash browns in place of meat sauce and noodles.
    • Layer with ricotta and cheddar cheese.
    • A fun twist for brunch or a hearty weekend breakfast.

FAQs

1. Can I use no-boil noodles? Yes, no-boil noodles work perfectly with the added water.
2. Can I make it ahead of time? Yes, assemble a day in advance and bake when ready.
3. Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta? Absolutely, cottage cheese works well.
4. Can I make it vegetarian? Yes, use sautéed vegetables or plant-based meat alternatives.
5. Can I freeze it? Yes, freeze baked or unbaked lasagna for up to three months.
6. How do I prevent noodles from sticking? Covering with foil and adding water helps noodles cook without sticking.
7. Can I double the recipe? Yes, use a larger baking dish and increase cooking time slightly.
8. Can I use a different sauce? Yes, any marinara or pasta sauce works.
9. How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
10. Can I add extra cheese on top? Definitely, mozzarella or Parmesan works for a cheesier finish.

This Easy Lazy Day Lasagna brings comfort, flavor, and simplicity to the dinner table. With minimal prep and maximum taste, it’s the perfect weeknight meal for any family.

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