Go Back
–+ servings
Lazy Lasagna Casserole

Lazy Lasagna Casserole: High-Protein Comfort Made Easy

Lazy Lasagna Casserole is an easy, high-protein dish that delivers comforting flavors for busy weeknights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2 cups uncooked penne pasta substitute with rigatoni or gluten-free pasta if desired
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil can be replaced with avocado or flaxseed oil
  • 1 lb lean ground beef use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or try plant-based meat for vegetarian
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped can be substituted with white onions or shallots
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder fresh garlic can be used for a stronger taste
  • 2 teaspoon Italian seasoning essential for adding authentic Italian flavor
  • salt & black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup cottage cheese ricotta or plant-based cheese can substitute
  • 24 oz pasta sauce marinara or homemade tomato sauce recommended
  • 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded substitute with cheddar or a cheese blend if unavailable
For the Finish
  • basil, chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch casserole dish
  • large pot
  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add 2 cups of uncooked penne pasta. Cook for 1 minute less than the package instructions, then drain.
  3. In a skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then 1 lb of lean ground beef and 1 chopped onion. Add 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 7-8 minutes until browned.
  4. Stir in 1 cup of cottage cheese and the entire 24 oz jar of pasta sauce until well combined.
  5. Add the cooked penne pasta to the beef and cheese mixture, stirring gently until evenly mixed.
  6. Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
  7. Sprinkle 8 oz of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
  8. Bake for about 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and lightly golden.
  9. Let cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 32gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 20mg

Notes

Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!