Irresistible Easy Lasagna Recipe Without Ricotta Cheese No Cottage Cheese: A Deliciously Simple Twist on a Classic Dish

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the rich, layered goodness of lasagna. However, traditional recipes often include ricotta or cott……

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the rich, layered goodness of lasagna. However, traditional recipes often include ricotta or cottage cheese, which can be a deal-breaker for those with dietary restrictions or personal preferences. If you're searching for an easy lasagna recipe without ricotta cheese no cottage cheese, you're in for a treat! This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

#### Ingredients You'll Need

To create this mouthwatering lasagna, you will need the following ingredients:

- **Lasagna noodles**: 12 sheets (you can use no-boil noodles for ease)

- **Ground meat**: 1 pound (beef, turkey, or a plant-based alternative)

- **Marinara sauce**: 3 cups (store-bought or homemade)

- **Mozzarella cheese**: 2 cups, shredded

- **Parmesan cheese**: 1 cup, grated

- **Egg**: 1 large (optional, for binding)

- **Spinach**: 2 cups, fresh or frozen (optional for added nutrition)

- **Garlic**: 2 cloves, minced

- **Onion**: 1 medium, diced

- **Olive oil**: 2 tablespoons

- **Salt and pepper**: to taste

- **Italian seasoning**: 1 teaspoon (optional)

#### Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your lasagna cooks evenly and comes out perfectly bubbly.

2. **Cook the Meat**: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Then, add the ground meat, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. If you're adding spinach, stir it in until wilted.

3. **Prepare the Noodles**: If you’re using traditional lasagna noodles, cook them according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. If using no-boil noodles, you can skip this step.

4. **Layer the Lasagna**: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of noodles over the sauce, followed by half of the meat mixture, a layer of marinara sauce, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat this process until you've used all your ingredients, finishing with a layer of noodles topped with marinara sauce and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

5. **Bake**: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray). Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

6. **Let It Rest**: Once out of the oven, allow the lasagna to rest for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the layers set and make it easier to cut.

7. **Serve and Enjoy**: Slice your delicious lasagna and serve it warm. Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

#### Why This Recipe Works

This easy lasagna recipe without ricotta cheese no cottage cheese is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers, or by using different types of cheese to suit your taste. Plus, by omitting ricotta and cottage cheese, you create a lighter, yet equally satisfying dish that everyone will love.

Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this lasagna recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household. Its layers of flavor and gooey cheese will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress with this delightful twist on a classic!