There’s something so comforting about a bubbling pan of lasagna fresh out of the oven.
This Lasagna with Cottage Cheese has rich meat sauce, creamy cheese layers, and golden mozzarella on top.
It’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This lasagna uses cottage cheese for a lighter, creamy filling that still feels indulgent.
The meat sauce is simple, flavorful, and made with pantry staples.
You can prepare it ahead of time and bake when ready.
It’s customizable with different cheeses, noodles, or added veggies.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Ground beef provides a rich, savory base.
Cottage cheese makes the filling creamy without being too heavy.
Parmesan adds sharp, salty flavor to balance the richness.
Mozzarella creates that golden, bubbly topping everyone loves.
Dried oregano and basil give the sauce classic Italian depth.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Drain excess fat from the beef for a cleaner flavor.
Simmer the sauce long enough for the flavors to meld.
If using boil noodles, lay them flat to prevent sticking.
Let the lasagna rest after baking for neat slices.
Grate your own mozzarella—it melts better than pre-shredded.
How to Make Lasagna with Cottage Cheese
Step 1 – Cook the Meat Sauce
Brown beef in a skillet, then add onion and garlic.
Stir in tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings. Simmer until thickened.
Step 2 – Prepare the Cheese Layer
Mix cottage cheese, egg, Parmesan, and parsley in a bowl until creamy.
Step 3 – Cook the Noodles
Boil noodles until al dente if not using no-boil.
Drain and lay flat to avoid sticking.
Step 4 – Assemble the Layers
Spread sauce in the baking dish, add noodles, then cottage cheese mixture.
Repeat layers and finish with mozzarella on top.
Step 5 – Bake the Lasagna
Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
Remove foil and bake 15 minutes more until golden.
Step 6 – Rest and Serve
Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
What to Serve Them With
A crisp green salad balances the richness.
Garlic bread makes the meal extra comforting.
Pair with red wine or sparkling water for a complete dinner.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken.
Add spinach or zucchini slices for more vegetables.
Replace cottage cheese with ricotta if preferred.
Use gluten-free noodles for a gluten-free version.
Storage & Leftovers
Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze individual portions for easy future meals.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (176°C) until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I make lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until baking.
Can I freeze uncooked lasagna?
Absolutely. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding extra time.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Use the oven for even heating and to keep the top crispy.
Can I substitute cottage cheese with ricotta?
Yes, ricotta works perfectly if you prefer a richer texture.
Do I need to cook no-boil noodles first?
No, they soften during baking, which saves time.
Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Yes, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini blend in well.
How do I keep the lasagna from being watery?
Drain beef well and simmer sauce long enough to thicken.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Definitely, just double the amount for the same flavor strength.
What size pan should I use?
A 9×13-inch baking dish is standard for this recipe.
How long should I let it rest before serving?
At least 10 minutes for clean, sturdy slices.
Final Thoughts
This Lasagna with Cottage Cheese is a cozy, family-friendly dish that combines rich flavors with creamy layers.
It’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions.
