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Easy Lazy Lasagna

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Lazy Lasagna is a simplified version of the classic lasagna dish, offering all the rich, cheesy, and saucy flavor with a fraction of the effort. Using cooked pasta, marinara, ricotta, and melty cheeses, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want comfort food fast.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or broken lasagna noodles)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
  • 3 cups marinara or pasta sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. If using, add ground beef or sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  4. Add marinara sauce and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Simmer for 5–10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sauce mixture, and dollops of ricotta cheese. Gently toss to combine.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  9. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and golden.
  10. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley if desired.

Notes

Use any short pasta that holds sauce well.Skip the meat for a vegetarian version and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms.For extra creaminess, stir some cream cheese into the ricotta.Make it ahead and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours.This dish freezes well before or after baking.

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