Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lazy Lasagna Casserole is a quick and satisfying alternative to traditional lasagna, offering all the rich, cheesy, and savory flavors you love without the time-consuming layering process. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this hearty casserole is comforting, family-friendly, and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beef or Italian sausageoniongarlicmarinarapastawaterricotta cheesemozzarella cheeseparmesan cheesesaltpepperItalian seasoningolive oil

directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the pasta until just al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent.

Add ground beef or sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart and cooking until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Stir in the marinara sauce, water, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes to combine flavors.

In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the meat sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese.

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Top with the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 30-35 minutesTotal time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter version.

Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Make it spicy by adding crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce.

Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

storage/reheating

Store Lazy Lasagna Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months for a convenient future meal.Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I assemble this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni works well for holding the sauce and cheese.

Can I use store-bought marinara?

Absolutely, store-bought marinara saves time and still tastes delicious.

Do I have to use meat?

No, you can make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more veggies.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Make sure there’s enough sauce mixed in and cover it while baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use two baking dishes if needed.

What cheeses can I substitute?

Feel free to use provolone, gouda, or fontina for a different flavor.

How long does it last in the fridge?

Properly stored, it will last up to 4 days.

Can I cook it straight from frozen?

It’s best to thaw overnight, but you can bake it from frozen, adding extra baking time.

Is it kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s a favorite among kids thanks to its cheesy and hearty flavors.

Conclusion

Lazy Lasagna Casserole is a fuss-free, delicious meal that brings the comfort of traditional lasagna to your table in half the time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week, this recipe delivers on taste, convenience, and satisfaction. Give it a try, and it might just become a regular in your dinner rotation.