Introduction
This easy vegetarian lasagna delivers classic comfort with minimal effort. You get all the rich, cheesy layers using just four simple ingredients. It’s a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks or feeding a crowd.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Total Time: 85 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 1 16 oz container of cottage cheese (we used low fat, but you can use regular if you prefer)
- 1 jar pasta sauce
- 3 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spoon a thin layer of pasta sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to coat it.
- Place a single layer of uncooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, breaking noodles to fit as needed.
- Spread one-third of the cottage cheese evenly over the noodle layer.
- Sprinkle one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the cottage cheese.
- Spoon a generous layer of sauce over the cheese to cover it well.
- Repeat steps 3 through 6 two more times to create three complete layers of noodles, cottage cheese, mozzarella, and sauce.
- For the final layer, place one last layer of noodles on top. Cover these noodles completely with the remaining pasta sauce and then sprinkle with any remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake covered for 50 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the noodles are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Variations
- Single-Serve Prep: Assemble individual lasagna portions in small oven-safe dishes for easy serving and reheating.
- Broiler Finish: For extra browning on top, run the cooked lasagna under the broiler for 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Spice It Up: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, dried oregano, or black pepper between the layers for a flavor boost without new ingredients.
- Crispy Top: Let the final layer of sauce be lighter to allow the top layer of cheese to get extra crisp and browned during the uncovered bake time.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the final layer of noodles is completely covered with sauce to prevent them from drying out and becoming hard.
- Letting the lasagna rest after baking is crucial; it allows the layers to set for cleaner slices.
- Use the back of a spoon to spread the cottage cheese into a smooth, even layer for the best texture.
- You can assemble the lasagna up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate it. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot, or cover the baking dish with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-30 minutes.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of noodle?
No, this recipe is designed for traditional, oven-ready lasagna noodles that cook in the sauce. “No-boil” or “no-bake” noodles have different moisture requirements and will not work correctly here.
Why is my lasagna watery?
This is often because the noodles absorbed more liquid than the sauce provided. Make sure you are using a standard 24-26 oz jar of pasta sauce and that you cover the dish tightly with foil for the first part of baking to trap steam.
Can I freeze this lasagna?
Yes, baked or unbaked lasagna freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking. If baking from frozen, cover with foil and bake at 375°F for about 90 minutes, then uncover and continue as directed.
Do I have to use low-fat cottage cheese?
No, the recipe note says you can use regular cottage cheese if you prefer. The fat content will change the richness slightly but the method remains the same.
Why let it rest before cutting?
Resting allows the hot cheese and sauce to set slightly, which prevents the layers from sliding apart when you slice into it. This ensures you get beautiful, intact pieces.
What size jar of pasta sauce should I use?
A standard 24 to 26-ounce jar of your favorite marinara or pasta sauce works perfectly.