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High Protein Recipe

Easy Meat Lasagna

Updated on 5 min read
image 2023 02 11T04 03 25 707Z High Protein Recipe

Quick Description

This Easy Meat Lasagna is made with ground beef, tomato sauce, cheese, and classic lasagna noodles, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s a perfect balance of savory meat sauce and melty cheese, layered for the ultimate comfort food.

Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 8–10
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients List

For the Meat Sauce

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
  • 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper

For the Cheese Mixture

  • 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Lasagna

  • 9 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package instructions)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Sauce

  1. Cook the Ground Beef:
    • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until browned and fully cooked, about 7–10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the Sauce:
    • Stir in the marinara sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
    • Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for another 5–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

  1. Mix the Cheese:
    • In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley (if using). Stir until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna

  1. Layer the Lasagna:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Spread 1 cup of the meat sauce evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
    • Place 3 lasagna noodles evenly apart over the sauce.
    • Spread ½ of the cheese mixture evenly over the noodles.
    • Top with ½ of the remaining meat sauce.
    • Place another layer of 3 lasagna noodles on top.
    • Spread the remaining ½ of the cheese mixture over the noodles.
    • Place the final 3 lasagna noodles on top.
    • Spread the remaining meat sauce over the noodles.
    • Top with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Lasagna

  1. Bake:
    • Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
    • After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the lasagna is heated through.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Cool and Serve:
    • Let the lasagna cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut clean slices.
    • Serve hot and enjoy!

Additional Notes

  • Make-Ahead: You can prepare the lasagna in advance, refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, and bake it when ready to serve.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Lasagna freezes well! Assemble the lasagna and freeze it (before baking) for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.
  • Vegetable Option: For a healthier twist, add sautéed spinach, zucchini slices, or mushrooms between the layers.

Dietary Info

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this dish gluten-free.
  • Keto-Friendly: For a keto version, substitute zucchini noodles or cabbage leaves for the lasagna noodles.

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Ricotta Cheese: You can substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if preferred.
  • Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground pork as a leaner alternative to beef.
  • Tomato Paste: You can use crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce in place of tomato paste for a slightly different flavor.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Add Meatballs: For a meatier version, add cooked meatballs to the layers.
  • Serve with a Salad: Pair the lasagna with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or oregano for a burst of flavor.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Lasagna can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Carbs: 18 g
  • Net Carbs: 12 g
  • Fiber: 6 g

FAQs

Q: Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, this lasagna can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños to the meat sauce for a spicy kick.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone for added flavor.

Optional Personal Story

This Easy Meat Lasagna is a family favorite in my house. It’s always a hit at dinner parties or family gatherings, and the best part is it’s easy to make and tastes even better the next day as leftovers!

Call-to-Action

Make this Easy Meat Lasagna for dinner tonight! It’s cheesy, comforting, and satisfying — the perfect dish to enjoy with family and friends.

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