Lasagna with Cottage Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Lais
Mar 24
3 min read

A delicious plate of lasagna with cottage cheese, topped with melted mozzarella and garnished with fresh basil

Lasagna with Cottage Cheese: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Italian Dish

If you're craving a comforting and hearty meal, lasagna with cottage cheese is the perfect choice. This delicious variation of the traditional lasagna recipe replaces ricotta cheese with cottage cheese, offering a lighter yet still creamy texture.

Whether you're preparing for a family dinner or hosting friends, this dish will surely satisfy everyone at the table. Let's dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Lasagna with Cottage Cheese

12 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package directions)
2 cups cottage cheese (drained)
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
2 cups marinara sauce
1 medium onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt
Olive oil (for sautéing)

How to Make Lasagna with Cottage Cheese: Step-by-Step

A close-up shot of a lasagna being assembled in a baking dish with layers of cottage cheese, ground beef, and marinara sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Start by cooking the lasagna noodles according to the instructions on the package. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Sauce

In a large pan, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Next, add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat and pour in the marinara sauce. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.

Step 3: Mix Cottage Cheese and Egg

In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The egg helps bind the cheese together, creating a rich and creamy filling for your lasagna.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, start with a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Then, layer the cooked lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of the cottage cheese mixture, more meat sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of meat sauce and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Let It Rest and Serve

Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and enjoy!

FAQ: Lasagna with Cottage Cheese

1. Can I use ricotta instead of cottage cheese for lasagna?

Yes! While this recipe uses cottage cheese for a lighter option, you can definitely use ricotta cheese if you prefer a richer flavor and texture.

2. Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna ahead of time, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes if baking from the fridge.

3. Can I freeze lasagna with cottage cheese?

Yes, you can freeze the lasagna either before or after baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free, as it uses traditional lasagna noodles. However, you can substitute gluten-free lasagna noodles for a gluten-free version.

5. What other variations can I try?

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by swapping the ground beef for sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach. You can also use ground chicken or pork for a different protein option.