Easy Lasagna Recipe With Cottage Cheese Crimson Sauce With Spinach Ribbons

easy lasagna recipe with cottage cheese Crimson Sauce with Spinach Ribbons

I’ve found my ultimate go-to for a no-fuss, incredibly satisfying meal, and I can’t wait to share it with you. Imagine the rich aroma of simmering Crimson Sauce filling your kitchen, promising layers of creamy cottage cheese and tender spinach ribbons nestled between pasta. This easy lasagna recipe with cottage cheese Crimson Sauce with Spinach Ribbons is your answer for a satisfying meal, made simple. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights in, this recipe balances classic flavor with quick prep. Get ready for layers of creamy goodness, vibrant sauce, and fresh spinach in every bite, making it a fantastic easy lasagna recipe with cottage cheese Crimson Sauce with Spinach Ribbons!

Ingredients for Your Easy Lasagna with Cottage Cheese

Gathering quality ingredients is the first step to a truly memorable and easy lasagna recipe with cottage cheese Crimson Sauce with Spinach Ribbons. My goal is always delicious, wholesome meals for my family.

• For the Lasagna Layers:
  • 12-16 sheets no-boil lasagna noodles (approximately 250-300g): The perfect time-saving foundation for busy weeknights, contributing to an easy lasagna recipe with cottage cheese Crimson Sauce with Spinach Ribbons.
  • 24 oz (680g) cottage cheese (full-fat for creaminess, or low-fat for a lighter option): Offers a light, creamy, high-protein layer. (Swap: You can use ricotta cheese if you prefer a more traditional texture.)
  • 4 cups (450g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melty, gooey perfection that holds everything together.
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese, divided: A salty, savory kick that boosts flavor. (Swap: Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.)
• For the Crimson Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil: Good quality for flavor.
  • 1 large (approx. 150g) yellow onion, finely chopped: Aromatic foundation for depth.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced: Pungent flavor, freshly minced is best.
  • 6 oz (170g) tomato paste: Deepens and concentrates the tomato flavor.
  • 2 (28 oz / 794g) cans crushed tomatoes (look for organic ingredients for best taste): Rich, robust base for our vibrant sauce.
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: Classic herb blend for authentic taste.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity): I sometimes add a pinch if the tomatoes are too tart.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste.
• For the Spinach Ribbons:
  • 10 oz (280g) fresh spinach: Adds nutrition, beautiful color, and freshness. Farm-fresh spinach offers the best flavor and texture.

These thoughtful selections ensure your easy lasagna recipe with cottage cheese Crimson Sauce with Spinach Ribbons is both nourishing and delicious, supporting healthy eating habits for the whole family.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions for Simple Lasagna

Prepping Your Ingredients (15 minutes)

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute until it darkens slightly and releases its aroma.
2. Pour in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, optional sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the Crimson Sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it cook, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and deepen. It should thicken slightly.
3. While the sauce simmers, briefly wilt the fresh spinach in a separate pan with a splash of water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender. Drain any excess liquid well, then roughly chop the spinach into ‘ribbons’.
4. In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated and creamy.

Assembling Your Easy Lasagna (20 minutes)

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish; I find a quick spray of cooking oil works perfectly.
2. Spread a thin, even layer of the fragrant Crimson Sauce on the bottom of the prepared dish. This prevents the noodles from sticking.
3. Arrange a single layer of no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce. Overlap them slightly if needed to fit the pan. (Tip: No need to pre-boil these noodles, saving you valuable time!)
4. Evenly spread half of the creamy cottage cheese mixture over the noodles. It should be a smooth, consistent layer.
5. Sprinkle half of the vibrant chopped spinach ribbons evenly over the cottage cheese.
6. Top with another generous layer of Crimson Sauce and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. You’ll see the colors start to build beautifully, defining this easy lasagna recipe with cottage cheese Crimson Sauce with Spinach Ribbons.
7. Repeat the noodle, cottage cheese, spinach, sauce, and mozzarella layers once more. This layering technique is key to a hearty, family-friendly meal.
8. Finish with a final layer of noodles, generously covered with remaining Crimson Sauce and the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The top should look rich and ready for baking. This layering makes for a fantastic easy lasagna recipe with cottage cheese Crimson Sauce with Spinach Ribbons.

Baking & Resting (40-45 minutes)

1. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture. Bake for 30 minutes. You’ll hear it gently bubbling as it cooks.
2. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly, melted, and lightly browned on top. The edges should look golden.
3. Let the easy lasagna recipe with cottage cheese Crimson Sauce with Spinach Ribbons rest on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This crucial step helps it set, making for cleaner, more beautiful slices.

Inline Options: For a low-carb alternative, try using thin zucchini ribbons instead of traditional noodles. For a vegan friendly option, choose plant-based cottage cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan alternatives, and feel free to add extra veggies like sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for more texture.

Brief Troubleshooting Tips: If your lasagna seems watery, ensure your cottage cheese was well-drained before mixing, and avoid adding too much sauce between layers. If noodles are hard, they may not have been fully covered by sauce during baking, so ensure generous sauce distribution.

Best Times to Enjoy and Storage Tips for Your Lasagna

• Situations to Enjoy: Family dinners, easy weeknight meals, holiday gatherings, or school lunches.
• Serving Pairings: Simple green salad, garlic bread, fresh basil.
• Storage and Reheating: Fridge: 3-4 days in airtight container. Freezer: 2-3 months wrapped tightly. Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) or microwave.

Health, Nutrition & Lifestyle Benefits of Easy Lasagna

This easy lasagna recipe with cottage cheese Crimson Sauce with Spinach Ribbons is a balanced, protein-packed family meal. Rich in vitamins and fiber, it’s customizable for low-carb or vegetarian diets, perfect for healthy meal prep. It fits various healthy dinner ideas seamlessly.

How This Recipe Matches Everyday Goals

Budget-friendly and time-saving with no-boil noodles, this easy lasagna supports a wellness-focused, versatile lifestyle for family dinners. It simplifies cooking without compromising on flavor or nutrition.

Pro Tips and Adjustments with Easy Lasagna

Caramelize onions longer for richer flavor; broil for a crispier top (watch carefully!). Add red pepper flakes for spice or fresh basil for freshness. My kids sometimes resist visible greens, so processing spinach into the Crimson Sauce works wonders for hidden veggies. It’s easily dairy-free or nut-free with simple swaps.

FAQs about Easy Lasagna with Cottage Cheese

Q: Is easy lasagna recipe with cottage cheese Crimson Sauce with Spinach Ribbons good for weight loss?

Yes, especially with zucchini noodles and lean protein. Cottage cheese offers a lighter, high-protein option for healthy eating and satiety.

Q: Where can I buy quality ingredients for this easy lasagna?

Most stores have core items. For premium, get organic crushed tomatoes and fresh spinach at your local farmers’ markets. Good quality olive oil also enhances flavor.

Q: Can I use this easy lasagna recipe with cottage cheese in meal prep plans?

Absolutely! This easy lasagna is ideal for meal prep. Refrigerate for 3-4 days, or freeze portions for 2-3 months for quick, healthy meals.

Q: Can I make the Crimson Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the Crimson Sauce up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate it. This streamlines assembly of your easy lasagna, saving valuable cooking time.

Q: What if I don’t like spinach in my easy lasagna?

No problem! Omit the spinach entirely. Or, swap it for finely chopped mushrooms or zucchini for a nutritional boost without it. It’s very versatile!

Q: How do I prevent my easy lasagna from being watery?

Thoroughly drain cottage cheese (I always give it an extra press!). Use thin sauce layers. Crucially, let the lasagna rest 10-15 minutes after baking to set, preventing sogginess.

Enjoy a comforting, flavorful, and truly easy lasagna recipe with cottage cheese Crimson Sauce with Spinach Ribbons that brings the family together without the kitchen stress. This convenient and healthy dinner idea is perfect for busy family meals; save this recipe for your next weeknight or share your creation on Pinterest!

easy lasagna recipe with cottage cheese Crimson Sauce with Spinach Ribbons

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• Author: Jusmira Rayne
• Total Time: 95 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings 1x
• Diet: General

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Description

This easy lasagna recipe features creamy cottage cheese and tender spinach ribbons nestled between no-boil pasta sheets, all brought together with a rich Crimson Sauce. It’s a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep, balancing classic flavor with quick preparation.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12–16 sheets no-boil lasagna noodles (250-300g)
• 24 oz (680g) cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
• 4 cups (450g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 0.5 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 1 large (150g) yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 oz (170g) tomato paste
• 2 (28 oz / 794g) cans crushed tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 10 oz (280g) fresh spinach

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Instructions

1. Prepare Sauce Base: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute until it darkens slightly and releases its aroma.
2. Simmer Crimson Sauce: Pour in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, optional sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the Crimson Sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it cook, uncovered, for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and deepen. It should thicken slightly.
3. Wilt and Chop Spinach: While the sauce simmers, briefly wilt the fresh spinach in a separate pan with a splash of water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender. Drain any excess liquid well, then roughly chop the spinach into ribbons.
4. Combine Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the cottage cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 0.5 cup of grated Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated and creamy.
5. Preheat Oven and Grease Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Layer First Noodle and Cheese: Spread a thin, even layer of the fragrant Crimson Sauce on the bottom of the prepared dish. Arrange a single layer of no-boil lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping them slightly if needed.
7. Add Spinach and Mozzarella: Evenly spread half of the creamy cottage cheese mixture over the noodles. Sprinkle half of the vibrant chopped spinach ribbons evenly over the cottage cheese. Top with another generous layer of Crimson Sauce and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
8. Repeat Layers: Repeat the noodle, cottage cheese, spinach, sauce, and mozzarella layers once more.
9. Finish Top Layer: Finish with a final layer of noodles, generously covered with remaining Crimson Sauce and the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The top should look rich and ready for baking.
10. Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture. Bake for 30 minutes.
11. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly, melted, and lightly browned on top. The edges should look golden.
12. Rest Before Serving: Let the lasagna rest on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This crucial step helps it set, making for cleaner, more beautiful slices.

Notes

For a low-carb alternative, try using thin zucchini ribbons instead of traditional noodles. For a vegan friendly option, choose plant-based cottage cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan alternatives. If your lasagna seems watery, ensure your cottage cheese was well-drained and avoid adding too much sauce. If noodles are hard, ensure generous sauce distribution.

• Prep Time: 35 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 150 g)
• Calories: 420 calories
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 12 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: easy lasagna, cottage cheese, crimson sauce, spinach, no-boil noodles, family dinner, meal prep, creamy, savory, Italian-inspired