This cherished lasagna recipe has been a family favorite for generations, originating from Grandma W’s kitchen. While it may not be the traditional lasagna recipe you’re accustomed to, it holds a special place in my heart, evoking memories of my childhood. Every visit from my grandparents included this delightful dish, and its unique twist sets it apart.

It deviates from the norm by incorporating cottage cheese instead of the more customary ricotta. This unconventional choice adds a delightful touch of difference while keeping the preparation simple and accessible.

It’s important to note a couple of key details. Firstly, we always use traditional boiled noodles. Despite the convenience of “no-boil” options, our family prefers the texture and taste of the traditional method. Additionally, due to the usage of cottage cheese, this lasagna may have a slightly looser consistency compared to traditional ricotta-based versions. However, the flavor more than makes up for this difference, making it a beloved family classic.

A Heartwarming Lasagna Recipe from Grandma W’s Kitchen

Prep Time: 40 mins

Cook Time: 60 mins

Total Time: 100 mins

Category: Dinner

Description:

This is the recipe my Grandmother made on the regular especially when her and my Grandfather visited. Its a family staple!

Ingredients:

• 1.5lb ground beef
• 1 small onion chopped
• 3 gloves garlic
• 24 oz jar of your favorite pasta sauce
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 salt

For the filling:

• 1 1/2 cup full fat small curd cottage cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the lasagna:

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 3 cups mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup parmesan

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Meat Sauce: In a large, deep frying pan over medium-high heat, combine ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat. Stir in minced garlic, pasta sauce, oregano, pepper, and salt. Heat through, then reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
3. Cook Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add a swirl of oil to prevent sticking. Cook the noodles for 2 minutes less than the package directions suggest for al dente. Drain the noodles.
4. Prepare Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cheese, egg, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
5. Assemble the Lasagna Layers:
   • Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
   • Arrange 4 noodles lengthwise over the sauce.
   • Spread half of the meat sauce evenly over the noodles.
   • Spoon half of the cheese filling mixture over the sauce.
   • Repeat the layers: noodles, meat sauce, and cheese filling.
6. Top Layer: For the final layer, place noodles over the cheese filling. Spread the remaining meat sauce over the noodles. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
8. Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set. Enjoy your delicious homemade lasagna!

These steps should help ensure a perfectly layered and flavorful lasagna that’s ready to impress at your table!