If you're looking for a lasagna dish without all the hassle of layering and waiting, this Lazy Lasagna Casserole is the perfect solution. Packed with all the classic lasagna flavors you love, but made in a fraction of the time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. The combination of tender pasta, savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella makes it a satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy.

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The History Behind the Ingredients  

Lasagna is a beloved Italian dish traditionally made by layering flat pasta with meat sauce, ricotta, and cheese. This Lazy Lasagna Casserole simplifies the process by using short pasta like penne, ziti, or shells, while still retaining all the delicious flavors of a classic lasagna. Marinara sauce, ground beef, and a mixture of cheeses come together in this comforting baked pasta dish, offering a quicker way to enjoy a family favorite.

Why Lazy Lasagna Casserole Stands Out  

This casserole version of lasagna stands out because it offers all the comfort and flavor of traditional lasagna but with less effort and time. Instead of assembling layer by layer, you simply mix everything together and bake it in one dish. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan ensures a creamy, cheesy delight in every bite, while fresh herbs like basil and oregano add a burst of flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend dinner with friends, this dish is sure to become a go-to in your meal rotation.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):  

• Calories: 420 kcal  
• Fat: 22g  
• Carbohydrates: 35g  
• Protein: 28g  
• Sugar: 6g

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Serving Suggestions:  

This casserole is best served warm, straight from the oven. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It’s also a great dish to prepare ahead of time—just reheat and enjoy!

Storage Information:  

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual portions until warmed through. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Fun Fact:  

Did you know that the word "lasagna" actually refers to the type of pasta used in the dish, not the recipe itself? Lasagna noodles, also known as lasagne, are flat and wide, and are traditionally used in the layered dish we know today. However, over time, the term "lasagna" has become synonymous with the entire meal. By using shorter pasta in this recipe, you can enjoy all the flavors of lasagna without the time-consuming process of layering!

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Lazy Lasagna Casserole Recipe

Ingredients for the Casserole:  

• 10 ounces short pasta like malfada corta, penne, ziti, or medium shells  
• 1 teaspoon olive oil  
• 1 pound lean ground beef  
• 1 small onion, diced  
• 3 garlic cloves, minced  
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano  
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes  
• ½ teaspoon salt, divided  
• 2½ cups marinara sauce (I like Rao’s)  
• ¼ cup fresh basil, finely chopped  
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water  
• 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese  
• 1 egg  
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided  
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided  
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving ¼ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, heat 1 teaspoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Pour in the marinara sauce and the reserved pasta water, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in the chopped basil.

6. In a small bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, egg, and ¼ teaspoon of salt.

7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Add half of the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan, stirring to mix.

8. Spread half of the pasta mixture in the prepared baking dish. Spoon dollops of the ricotta mixture over the pasta. Layer the remaining pasta mixture on top.

9. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the top, followed by the chopped fresh oregano.

10. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

11. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Optional Variations:  

- For added flavor, substitute half of the ground beef with ground Italian sausage.  

- Add a layer of sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra vegetables.  

- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

This Lazy Lasagna Casserole is a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make dish that delivers all the flavors of a traditional lasagna with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home!