Classic cheesy saucy lasagna.

This classic lasagna recipe combines layers of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta and cottage cheese mixture, and gooey mozzarella, all baked to perfection. It’s a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. To complement the lasagna, serve it with a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette, and some garlic bread for a satisfying crunch. For a balanced meal, consider adding a side of steamed or roasted vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus. Finish with a light dessert, such as a fruit salad or sorbet, to cleanse the palate.

Ingredients

• 1-pound lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 24 ounces marinara sauce (about 3 cups)
• 9-12 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
• 16 ounces low-fat cottage cheese
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, plus more for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, egg, and 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley.
5. Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top.
6. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the noodles, then sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
7. Repeat the layers: meat sauce, noodles, cheese mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
8. Top with the remaining 3 noodles, meat sauce, and the remaining mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.