Lazy Lasagna
There’s something truly comforting about a big, warm dish of lasagna, and that’s why I love this Lazy Lasagna recipe. Life can get so hectic, and sometimes you just want a hearty meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this dish; I was having a busy week chasing after my kids and running errands. I wanted something delicious, but I also needed it to be quick and easy. This Lazy Lasagna recipe is the answer to those chaotic days when I crave something satisfying without the fuss.
Recipe Snapshot
1 hr 20 mins
5 mins
75 mins
Medium
300 kcal
16 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
12 g
Oven, Grater, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon
Why This Lazy Lasagna Hits Different
Time-Saving Wonder
One of the main reasons I adore this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare. The marinara sauce, ricotta, and mozzarella work together beautifully, making this dish a true crowd-pleaser. You can whip it up in no time and serve it to your family after a long day.
Perfect for Leftovers
Another thing I love about the Lazy Lasagna is that it makes excellent leftovers. After a long day, it’s such a relief to have a ready meal waiting for you in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven to reheat, and you’ll have that comforting taste all over again without any extra work. It’s a great dish for meal prepping, especially for busy weeks.
Customizable to Your Liking
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can add your favorite vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, to make it even heartier. If you want to spice things up, throw in some red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to kick the flavor up a notch. The Lazy Lasagna can easily adapt to whatever mood I’m in.
Family-Friendly Flavor
Kids love this dish, and I love that it’s a great way to get them to eat their veggies. The cheesy layers and rich tomato sauce make it an instant hit. Every time I serve this, I see smiles all around the table, and that’s what cooking is all about—bringing people together.
Minimal Cleanup
Let’s face it, no one enjoys doing dishes, especially after a long day. This Lazy Lasagna requires minimal cleanup. You’ll only need a few bowls and a baking dish to get this meal on the table, which makes it even more appealing. Less time scrubbing means more time enjoying the food and the company.
Main Ingredients for Lazy Lasagna
The ingredients for Lazy Lasagna are simple yet effective, combining to create a dish that’s rich in flavor and satisfying. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in bringing the layers together, resulting in a delicious comfort food classic. The key players include marinara sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan, all working harmoniously to offer that cheesy goodness we love. Let’s dive into what makes each component special:
- Marinara sauce: A jar of your favorite marinara sauce serves as the flavor base, providing a rich and tangy depth to the layers.
- Water: Used to loosen the sauce, making sure every noodle gets coated and flavors meld beautifully.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Essential for that gooey, cheesy topping, adding a delightful stretchiness that everyone loves.
- Finely grated parmesan: This cheese adds a nutty flavor and a bit of richness when mixed into the layers and sprinkled on top.
- Ricotta cheese: Creamy and rich, ricotta adds a luxurious texture that balances the acidity of the sauce.
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, making sure each bite is well-seasoned.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle spice and depth to the dish.
- Lasagna noodles: The foundation of our dish, soaking up all the flavors as they bake, creating a satisfying texture.
- Olive oil: A drizzle on top promotes browning and adds a hint of richness.
- Fresh minced parsley: Optional, but a lovely garnish that adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Step by Step Guide for Lazy Lasagna
Making Lazy Lasagna is a straightforward process that anyone can master. With only a few steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious homemade meal in no time. Let’s get started!
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is an important first step that ensures your lasagna bakes evenly and thoroughly.
Prepare your baking dish by spraying a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray. This will help prevent sticking and make serving easier.
In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce and one cup of water. I always like to swish the water in the jar of sauce to get every last drop out. This little trick ensures you don’t waste any sauce and helps create a lovely, saucy texture.
Add 2 cups of mozzarella cheese, 3/4 cup of parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, kosher salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Stir well until everything is completely combined. You want a lovely, creamy mixture that will coat the noodles perfectly.
Now, break the lasagna noodles directly into the bowl. Using your hands, or a sturdy wooden spoon, stir until the pasta is well coated in the sauce mixture. It’s okay if the noodles are broken; they’ll soften as they bake.
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking pan. Spread it into a relatively even layer; it doesn’t have to be perfect, so don’t stress about it!
Next, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese evenly over the top. This creates a beautiful cheesy crust that everyone will love.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for one hour. This helps the lasagna cook through without drying out.
After an hour, remove the foil and drizzle the top with olive oil. This step is key to getting that golden, bubbly top that makes lasagna irresistible.
Continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden in spots. You’ll know it’s done when the kitchen is filled with that amazing aroma!
Once baked, top with chopped parsley, if desired, for a fresh touch. Cut into squares to serve and enjoy the cozy warmth of your Lazy Lasagna.
Things Worth Knowing
- Layer Effect: Make sure to layer your ingredients well to ensure even cooking. Each layer needs a good amount of sauce to prevent the noodles from drying out.
- Baking Time: Baking times may vary based on your oven, so always keep an eye on the lasagna during the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.
- Let It Rest: Let the lasagna sit for about 10 to 15 minutes after baking. This allows it to set and makes cutting easier without it falling apart.
- Adding Vegetables: If you want to include vegetables, consider sautéing them first to reduce moisture. This helps keep the lasagna from becoming watery.
How to Switch It Up
Feel like changing things up with your Lazy Lasagna? Here are some fun tips to customize this dish to your liking!
- Add Spinach: Mix in some fresh or frozen spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. It pairs wonderfully with the cheeses!
- Use Whole Wheat Noodles: For a healthier option, consider using whole wheat lasagna noodles, which add more fiber and nutrients.
- Change the Cheese: Feel free to swap out the cheeses for your favorites. Goat cheese or a blend of Italian cheeses can add a unique twist.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the sauce for a kick!
- Meat Option: Incorporate cooked ground beef or turkey into the sauce for a meaty version that’s still easy to prepare.
- Herbs Galore: Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme can elevate the flavor. Add them to the cheese mixture for an aromatic touch.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If reheating, add a splash of water to keep it moist.
What to Serve Alongside Lazy Lasagna
Serving the Lazy Lasagna is all about creating a delightful, balanced meal. Here are some great ideas to accompany your dish:
- Garlic Bread: Nothing beats warm, buttery garlic bread alongside lasagna. It’s perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
- Simple Salad: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty lasagna.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus provide a lovely side that enhances the flavors of the main dish.
- Wine Pairing: For a special touch, pair your meal with a light white wine or a sparkling water with lemon.
- Seasonal Fruits: A platter of seasonal fruits like grapes, berries, or melon can serve as a light dessert.
- Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser that makes feeding a group a breeze!
- Reheating Tips: When reheating, consider adding a splash of water or broth before covering with foil to keep it moist.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Lazy Lasagna is a perfect example of comfort food that doesn’t compromise on flavor or ease. It’s a delicious way to bring everyone together for a satisfying meal any day of the week. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and see how it can become a favorite in your home, just like it has in mine!
Lazy Lasagna
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Prepare your baking dish by spraying a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the marinara sauce and one cup of water.
- Add 2 cups of mozzarella cheese, 3/4 cup of parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, kosher salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Stir well until everything is completely combined.
- Now, break the lasagna noodles directly into the bowl. Stir until the pasta is well coated in the sauce mixture.
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking pan, spreading it into a relatively even layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for one hour.
- After an hour, remove the foil and drizzle the top with olive oil. Continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden in spots.
- Once baked, top with chopped parsley and cut into squares to serve.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If reheating, add a splash of water to keep it moist.
