How can I prevent my lasagna from falling apart when serving?

To ensure your lasagna holds its shape, let it rest for at least 15 minutes after baking. This allows the ingredients to set, making it easier to cut neat slices.

Can I make easy meat lasagna ahead of time and store it?

Yes, you can prepare the lasagna up to two days in advance. Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Alternatively, freeze it for up to three months for longer storage.

What is the best method for freezing lasagna?

To freeze lasagna, wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and add extra baking time if needed.

How should I reheat leftover lasagna for the best taste?

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, for around 30 minutes. This ensures even heating and prevents drying out. Alternatively, use a stovetop skillet with a lid for gentle reheating.

Easy Meat Lasagna with Creamy Lemon Twist

Name: Simple and Creamy Chicken Lasagna with a Touch of Lemon Flavor
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 uncooked lasagna noodles; 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided; ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided; ¾ teaspoon salt, or to taste; ½ pound lean ground beef; ½ pound Italian sausage; 1 diced yellow onion; 2 minced garlic cloves; 36 ounces pasta sauce; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 cups ricotta or cottage cheese; ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 large beaten egg

Description

🍋 This chicken lasagna offers a creamy delight with a zesty lemon touch, perfect for a comforting meal any day!
🧀 Enjoy layers of tender pasta, flavorful chicken, and rich cheese sauce that will tantalize your taste buds!

Ingredients

Scale

12 uncooked lasagna noodles
4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
¾ teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ pound lean ground beef
½ pound Italian sausage
1 diced yellow onion
2 minced garlic cloves
36 ounces pasta sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 cups ricotta or cottage cheese
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
1 large beaten egg

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente; drain and rinse with cold water.
3. Brown the ground beef, sausage, onion, and garlic in a skillet; drain the fat.
4. Add pasta sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet; simmer uncovered for about 5 minutes until the sauce is slightly thickened.
5. In a separate bowl, mix 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, ricotta or cottage cheese, parsley, egg, and salt.
6. In a 9×13 pan, spread 1 cup meat sauce, layer with 3 noodles, ⅓ of the cheese mixture, and 1 cup meat sauce; repeat the layers twice.
7. Finish with 3 noodles topped with the remaining sauce. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
8. Remove foil, sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top, and bake uncovered for 15 minutes until browned and bubbly.
9. Let the dish rest for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

🧀 Cheese Tip: Add cheese in the final baking minutes for a golden bubbly top.
🍀 Resting Tip: Resting the lasagna allows it to set and maintain its shape when cut.
🌿 Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, and freezing options are available before or after baking for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Resting Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 400
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 760mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 33g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 85mg