Easy Lasagna Casserole

Transform your weeknight dinners with this Easy Lasagna Casserole, a fuss-free twist on the classic Italian favorite. Packed with rich layers of savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, this casserole combines the comforting flavors of lasagna with the convenience of mini pasta shells. The hearty marinara-meat sauce and perfectly seasoned cheese mixture create a satisfying dish that's as delicious as it is easy to prepare. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a single casserole dish, this family-friendly recipe is perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. Serve it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Nutriscore Rating: 64/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground beef
• 2 Garlic cloves, minced
• 24 oz Jarred marinara sauce
• 1 cup Ricotta cheese
• 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese
• 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 Egg
• 1 tsp Dried Italian seasoning
• 0.5 tsp Salt
• 0.25 tsp Ground black pepper
• 12 oz Mini pasta shells (or any short pasta)
• 1 tbsp Olive oil
• 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with olive oil and set aside.

Step 2

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Step 3

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the beef. Stir well to combine, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 6

In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 7

In the prepared casserole dish, layer half of the cooked pasta shells evenly along the bottom. Spread half of the meat sauce over the pasta, followed by dollops of the ricotta cheese mixture spread evenly. Repeat with another layer of pasta, meat sauce, and ricotta mixture.

Step 8

Top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 9

Cover the dish with aluminum foil (to prevent the cheese from burning) and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 10

Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Step 11

Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2063.4 grams (2063.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4070

Total Fat 206.20g	264%
Saturated Fat 92.20g	461%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.10g
Cholesterol 869mg	290%
Sodium 6672mg	290%
Total Carbohydrate 335.10g	122%
Dietary Fiber 22.60g	81%
Total Sugars 42.50g
Protein 236.50g	473%

Vitamin D 48IU	240%
Calcium 3328mg	256%
Iron 21mg	117%
Potassium 3499mg	74%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 44.8%

Protein: 22.8%

Carbs: 32.4%