Lazy Lasagna Casserole
Lazy Lasagna Casserole is your shortcut to a hearty, comforting dinner with all the rich, cheesy flavors of traditional lasagna—minus the effort. It’s a one-pan meal that comes together in minutes and bakes to bubbly perfection, making it ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even make-ahead freezer meals. Whether you’re new to cooking or just want something fast and satisfying, this recipe is the cozy classic made easy.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 6 –8 oven-ready lasagna noodles broken into pieces
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil or nonstick spray for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Brown the Meat
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your ground beef or sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked meat with marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, Italian seasoning, and broken pieces of oven-ready lasagna noodles. Stir well until everything is evenly coated and mixed.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray. Pour in the lasagna mixture and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella on top, and if you like, add a layer of grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
- Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbling. For a crispy, golden top, broil for an additional 2 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set up for easy serving. Enjoy with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal!