Mixed Up Lasagna Recipe

Looking for a unique twist on traditional lasagna that's easier to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner? This Mixed-Up Lasagna recipe is your answer! It’s got all the comforting flavors of lasagna—rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and pasta—but with a fun, deconstructed presentation that cuts down on prep time. Plus, there’s no need to layer it perfectly! This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or a hungry family.

this Recipe

---

What is Mixed-Up Lasagna?

Mixed-Up Lasagna is a deconstructed version of traditional lasagna that’s much easier and faster to make. Instead of carefully layering pasta sheets, meat sauce, and cheese, everything is mixed together, creating a delicious casserole that’s just as comforting and flavorful as its classic counterpart. The flavors are all there—savory beef, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese—but this recipe offers a more laid-back, hassle-free approach. It’s perfect for busy nights when you crave the taste of lasagna but don’t have the time or patience for precise layering.

---

Ingredients List for Mixed-Up Lasagna

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this quick and easy mixed-up lasagna:

Main Ingredients:

1. Ground Beef: 1 pound (80% lean works well)
2. Italian Sausage: ½ pound (optional, but adds extra flavor)
3. Lasagna Noodles: 12 ounces (broken into bite-sized pieces)
4. Marinara Sauce: 3 cups (homemade or store-bought)
5. Ricotta Cheese: 1 cup
6. Mozzarella Cheese: 2 cups, shredded (divided)
7. Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated
8. Onion: 1 medium, chopped
9. Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
10. Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
11. Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon
12. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional for a little heat)
13. Salt and Pepper: To taste
14. Fresh Basil or Parsley: For garnish (optional)

These simple ingredients come together to create a delicious, comforting casserole that’s sure to please!

---

Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this Mixed-Up Lasagna recipe is that it’s highly adaptable. Here are some ways to customize the dish:

1. Ground Meat: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, ground chicken, or ground pork. You can also use plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
2. Sausage: If you’re not a fan of sausage or don’t have it on hand, simply use all ground beef. The sausage adds a lot of flavor, but the dish will still be delicious without it.
3. Pasta: While lasagna noodles give the dish its classic flavor, you can substitute other short pasta shapes like rigatoni, penne, or farfalle. Just cook them according to package instructions before mixing them into the dish.
4. Cheese: Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are traditional, but feel free to swap in cottage cheese for ricotta or use a cheese blend like Monterey Jack or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
5. Sauce: Marinara is classic, but you can use a meat sauce, arrabbiata (for more spice), or even a creamy Alfredo for a different twist.
6. Vegetarian Version: To make this dish vegetarian, swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You could also add in tofu or a meatless ground beef substitute.
7. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta or noodles to make this dish gluten-free without compromising on flavor.

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making this Mixed-Up Lasagna is as easy as it gets. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you whip up this delicious casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles (broken into bite-sized pieces) and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Meat

1. Sauté the Meat: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
2. Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Brown the Beef and Sausage: Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
4. Season the Meat: Stir in the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Pour in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. Mix the Ricotta: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Mix Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, meat sauce, and ricotta mixture. Stir until everything is evenly distributed and coated with sauce.
2. Transfer to the Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
3. Add the Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and the rest of the Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
2. Uncover and Bake: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden-brown edges.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

1. Let It Rest: Once baked, let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will make it easier to slice and serve.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

---

How to Cook Mixed-Up Lasagna: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of the key steps to make this simple and satisfying Mixed-Up Lasagna:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil lasagna noodles until al dente and drain.
2. Brown the Meat: Sauté onions, garlic, beef, and sausage, then add marinara sauce and seasonings.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: Mix ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan together.
4. Assemble: Combine the pasta, meat sauce, and cheese mixture, then transfer to a baking dish.
5. Top and Bake: Sprinkle cheese on top and bake until golden and bubbly.
6. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest, then garnish with fresh herbs and serve.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta just until al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven, and you don’t want it to become mushy.
2. Not Draining the Meat: After browning the ground beef and sausage, be sure to drain any excess fat. Too much grease can make the casserole oily.
3. Skipping the Resting Step: Letting the casserole rest after baking is essential. It helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve neat portions.
4. Overbaking: Watch the casserole closely during the uncovered baking time. You want the cheese to be melted and bubbly but not burnt.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Mixed-Up Lasagna:

• Portions: Scoop out generous portions with a large spoon, or slice it into squares for a more traditional lasagna-like presentation.
• Side Dishes: Serve with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

---

Presentation Ideas for Mixed-Up Lasagna:

• Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
• Serving Dish: Serve the casserole in a rustic or colorful baking dish to elevate its presentation for family dinners or potlucks.

---

Mixed-Up Lasagna Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature and bake as directed.
• Freezing Option: This casserole freezes well. Assemble it, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, cottage cheese is a great substitute for ricotta in lasagna. It has a similar texture but is lighter, so it’s perfect if you want to reduce the richness of the dish.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! Mixed-Up Lasagna freezes beautifully. Assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly with foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the ground beef and sausage and add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. You could also use a plant-based meat substitute if desired.

What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

---

Conclusion

This Mixed-Up Lasagna recipe offers all the flavors of traditional lasagna in a quick and easy format that’s perfect for busy weeknights. By deconstructing the layers and mixing everything together, you can enjoy a hearty, cheesy, and comforting casserole without all the fuss. It’s ideal for feeding a family or making ahead for meal prep. So, gather your ingredients, mix it all up, and enjoy this fun twist on a classic!

Print