Imagine creating a restaurant-quality lasagna in just 40 minutes that tastes like it's been simmering all day! This "Make in Minutes Lasagna" is your secret weapon to serving up an incredible Italian feast without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you're a busy parent, a working professional, or just someone who loves mouthwatering comfort food, this recipe will revolutionize your dinner game and have everyone at the table asking for your culinary magic.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or butter.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended and smooth.
- If using no-boil lasagna noodles, skip boiling. For traditional noodles, briefly cook noodles in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes until slightly flexible, then drain and set aside.
- Begin layering the lasagna in the baking dish. Start with a thin layer of marinara sauce spread across the bottom of the dish.
- Place 3 lasagna noodles across the sauce, slightly overlapping if needed.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the ricotta layer.
- Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce over the cheese, ensuring even coverage.
- Repeat the layering process with another 3 noodles, remaining ricotta, remaining mozzarella, and another cup of marinara sauce.
- Top with the final 3 lasagna noodles, remaining marinara sauce, and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn't touch the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes covered, then remove foil and bake an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.
- Slice into 6 equal portions and serve hot, garnishing with fresh basil if desired.
Tips
- Use high-quality marinara sauce for the best flavor profile
- Let the lasagna rest after baking to help layers set and make cutting easier
- If using traditional noodles, slightly undercook them as they'll continue cooking in the oven
- For extra richness, mix some grated Parmesan directly into the ricotta mixture
- Cover with foil to prevent excessive browning and ensure even cooking
- For a crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes after baking if you want more golden cheese
- Fresh basil as a garnish can elevate the presentation and add a fresh herb note
- Ensure your oven is properly preheated for consistent cooking results
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 85mg
