Lasagna Casserole Recipe: Easy & Cheesy Comfort Food

If you love lasagna but dread the effort of layering noodles, this Lasagna Casserole Recipe is the perfect solution.

It brings together all the classic flavors of lasagna—savory meat sauce, tender pasta, creamy ricotta, and gooey melted cheese—in a quick and easy casserole format.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t skimp on comfort or flavor.

What Is Lasagna Casserole?

Lasagna Casserole is a deconstructed version of traditional lasagna. Instead of meticulously layering ingredients, the components are mixed and baked together in one dish, saving time without sacrificing taste.

With hearty pasta, rich meat sauce, and cheesy goodness in every bite, it’s a comforting meal that’s as simple as it is delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Lasagna Casserole Recipe

This recipe serves 6–8.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (or a mix)
• 1 small onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or your favorite pasta sauce)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 12 oz pasta (ziti, penne, or rotini)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 egg (lightly beaten)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Optional Additions:

• 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped, for added greens)
• 1 bell pepper (diced, for extra color and crunch)
• ½ cup sliced mushrooms (for an earthy flavor)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with plant-based ground meat, crumbled tofu, or sautéed mushrooms.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the marinara sauce is gluten-free.
• Cheese Variations: Swap mozzarella for provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the meat sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make This Lasagna Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray.

2. Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until just al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Meat Sauce

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
• Add ground beef or sausage to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
• Stir in marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to combine the flavors.

4. Mix the Ricotta Layer

• In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, the beaten egg, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth.

5. Assemble the Casserole

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and meat sauce, stirring until evenly coated. Spread half of the pasta mixture in the prepared casserole dish.
• Dollop the ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta layer, spreading it gently with a spoon. Top with the remaining pasta mixture.

6. Add Cheese Topping

• Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole.

7. Bake

• Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Garnish and Serve

• Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a vibrant touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
• Skipping the Drain Step: Drain the meat thoroughly to avoid a greasy casserole.
• Uneven Layers: Spread the ricotta layer evenly to ensure every bite is perfectly balanced.
• Burning the Cheese: Keep an eye on the casserole during the final baking minutes to avoid over-browning the cheese.

Serving and Presentation Tips

• Pair with Sides: Serve this casserole with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Family-Style: Serve directly from the baking dish for a cozy, homestyle feel.
• Individual Portions: Plate each serving with a sprig of basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan for an elegant touch.

Expert Tips

• Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
• Reheat Leftovers: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to preserve the texture or in the microwave for quick reheating.
• Freeze for Later: Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Any short pasta like rigatoni, farfalle, or fusilli works well in this recipe.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the meat and add sautéed vegetables or plant-based ground meat.

What’s the best way to ensure the ricotta layer is creamy?
Mix the ricotta with an egg and Parmesan to achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.

Conclusion

This Lasagna Casserole Recipe offers all the comforting flavors of classic lasagna in an easy, no-fuss format.

Perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings, it’s a dish that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.

Try it today and bring the heartwarming taste of Italy to your table!