Say Goodbye to Dry Lasagna: Unlock the Juicy Goodness of Make-Ahead Lasagna with Cottage Cheese

Lasagna, a beloved culinary classic, often conjures up images of time-consuming preparation. However, with the ingenious use of cottage cheese, we present you with a revolutionary recipe for make-ahead lasagna that will redefine your meal-planning routine. This lasagna not only offers convenience but also a delectable symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cottage Cheese Filling:

• 1 (32-ounce) container cottage cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Assembly:

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Preparing the Meat Sauce:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat.
2. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Making the Cottage Cheese Filling:

1. In a large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, egg, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until well combined.

Assembling the Lasagna:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread 1 cup of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Top with 6 lasagna noodles.
4. Spread half of the cottage cheese filling over the noodles.
5. Repeat layers.
6. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.

Baking and Cooling:

1. Bake the lasagna for 45-50 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Let the lasagna cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Make Ahead Instructions

1. Prepare the meat sauce and cottage cheese filling up to 3 days in advance. Store separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
2. Assemble the lasagna without baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
3. When ready to bake, remove the lasagna from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for 30 minutes.
4. Bake according to the instructions above.

Tips for a Perfect Lasagna

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the lasagna noodles. They should be al dente.
• Allow the lasagna to rest for 15 minutes before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
• If you don’t have cottage cheese, you can substitute ricotta cheese.
• Add your favorite vegetables to the meat sauce, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.

Variations

• Vegetarian Lasagna: Omit the meat from the sauce and use vegetable broth instead.
• Gluten-Free Lasagna: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles.
• Skinny Lasagna: Reduce the amount of cheese and use lean ground beef.

Benefits of Using Cottage Cheese in Lasagna

• Cottage cheese is a healthier alternative to ricotta cheese, as it is lower in calories and fat.
• It adds a creamy texture and a subtle tang to the lasagna.
• Cottage cheese helps to bind the ingredients together, making the lasagna less likely to fall apart.

The Bottom Line

Make-ahead lasagna with cottage cheese is a culinary game-changer that will simplify your meal-planning. With its delectable flavors, convenient preparation, and versatility, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Embrace the culinary symphony of lasagna and cottage cheese, and enjoy the convenience of effortless meal preparation.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Can I freeze make-ahead lasagna?
A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked lasagna for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Q: How long can I store leftover lasagna?
A: Leftover lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Q: What can I serve with lasagna?
A: Lasagna pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of marinara sauce for dipping.