Ricotta Free (because it’s nasty 😂) Lasagna

Ever wonder if a cheese-free lasagna could still be delicious?

This Ricotta Free (because it’s nasty 😂) Lasagna is here to save the day! It’s everything we love about a classic lasagna but ditches that grainy, watery ricotta that leaves a bad taste in your mouth. Fun, flavorful, and super easy to whip up, this dish is sure to become your new weeknight favorite. Who knew going sans ricotta could be so liberating?

Why make this recipe

Why swap out ricotta, you ask? Well, here’s why this version rocks:

• Easy Cleanup: Less fuss, more flavor! You’ll spend more time enjoying your meal than scrubbing pans.
• Family-Friendly: Kids (and picky adults) will chow down without knowing you’ve gone ricotta-free. Sneaky, right?
• Affordable: Skip the expensive cheese and opt for simple ingredients that won’t break the bank. Who doesn’t love a budget-friendly win?

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional, but pretty!)

Directions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add your ground meat and cook until browned.
3. Stir in marinara sauce and season with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer while you move on.
4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them and set aside.
5. In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce at the bottom, followed by a layer of lasagna noodles, then top with mozzarella. Repeat these layers until everything is used up, ending with mozzarella on top.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
7. Let it rest for 10 minutes before digging in. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

How to make Ricotta Free (because it’s nasty 😂) Lasagna (Overview)

This process is as easy as pie (or should we say lasagna?). Start by browning your meat and enriching it with that depths-of-flavor marinara sauce while cooking your noodles. Layering is where the fun begins! Spread meat, noodles, and that melted mozzarella goodness over and over. Finish with a bubbly top, and you’ve got a masterpiece. Pro tip: Don’t skip letting it rest! It helps everything come together beautifully.

How to serve Ricotta Free (because it’s nasty 😂) Lasagna

Serve this beauty hot from the oven, bubbling with golden cheese. Pair it with a crunchy side salad drizzled in balsamic vinaigrette for a fresh contrast. If you really want to go all out, a side of garlic bread would be a heavenly touch! Just imagine the colors and aromas wafting through your kitchen, teasing everyone to dive in.

How to store Ricotta Free (because it’s nasty 😂) Lasagna

Leftovers? Yes, please! Your Ricotta Free (because it’s nasty 😂) Lasagna will keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave for a quick bite or warm it in the oven until heated through. It’s like having a gourmet meal ready whenever you want!

Tips to make Ricotta Free (because it’s nasty 😂) Lasagna

Here are some quick insider tips:

• Noodle Selection: No-boil lasagna noodles are great for speeding things up.
• Add Spinach: Toss in some fresh spinach for a nutrient boost without sacrificing flavor.
• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes for a little kick if you’re feeling feisty.
• Customize It: Try different meats or even omit meat for a vegetarian delight!

Variation (if any)

Want to switch things up? Consider making it vegan by using plant-based ground meat and vegan mozzarella. You can also sneak in zucchini or eggplant slices for a fresh veggie twist. Endless possibilities!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Parmesan or a blend of cheeses can work wonders.

Is it possible to make this ahead?
Yes! Assemble it the night before and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

Can I freeze it?
Definitely! Just let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly and freezing.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Ricotta Free Lasagna

This cheese-free lasagna is delicious, affordable, and family-friendly, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 9 pieces lasagna noodles Cook according to package instructions.
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey Choose your preferred meat.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional) Adds a nice touch for serving.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground meat and cook until browned.
3. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let simmer.
4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Assembly and Baking

1. In a baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce at the bottom.
2. Add a layer of lasagna noodles, then top with mozzarella.
3. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used up, finishing with mozzarella on top.
4. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
5. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
6. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding spinach or red pepper flakes. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.