Slow Baked Lasagna Casserole

Name: Slow Baked Lasagna Casserole
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 12 lasagna noodles; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound ground beef; 1 pound Italian sausage; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cans (15 oz each) crushed tomatoes; 2 cans (6 oz each) tomato paste; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 2 teaspoons dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Homestyle Comfort Plates

Delight in the comforting layers of this slow baked lasagna casserole, where rich flavors meld together for a satisfying meal.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-01-01T21:02:29.960Z

This slow baked lasagna casserole is a labor of love that rewards you with hearty, comforting flavors. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Layers of cheesy goodness that melt in your mouth
Rich meat sauce that simmers to perfection
Ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

There's something undeniably comforting about a well-made lasagna. This Slow Baked Lasagna Casserole embodies that classic charm, featuring layers of rich flavors and textures that create a hearty meal. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a gathering of friends and family, this dish warms the heart and satisfies the appetite. The slow baking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a casserole that’s bursting with taste.

In addition to its deliciousness, this casserole offers an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist. The melted cheese bubbling on top, combined with the savory meat sauce, creates a visual and olfactory delight. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings everyone to the table, encouraging conversation and connection.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the best aspects of this Slow Baked Lasagna Casserole is its versatility for meal prepping. You can easily make this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer, making it an ideal solution for busy weeks. Prepare the casserole on a Sunday afternoon, and you’ll have delicious, homemade meals ready to go for days. Just reheat and enjoy!

Moreover, this dish holds up well in storage, maintaining its flavor and texture when reheated. Simply cover the casserole with foil and warm it in the oven when you're ready to serve. It’s a fantastic way to ensure you have nutritious, home-cooked meals at your fingertips without the daily cooking hassle.

Customizable for Everyone

The beauty of this lasagna casserole is its adaptability. Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or restrictions. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef and Italian sausage with layers of sautéed vegetables, like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach. You can also use gluten-free lasagna noodles to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

Additionally, experiment with different cheeses or sauces to add your personal touch. Swap ricotta for cottage cheese, or sprinkle in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor. This recipe is a canvas for your culinary creativity, allowing you to create a lasagna that’s uniquely yours.

Ingredients

For the Lasagna

12 lasagna noodles
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 pound Italian sausage
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (15 oz each) crushed tomatoes
2 cans (6 oz each) tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 egg
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you begin layering!

Instructions

Cook the Noodles

Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, and garlic. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is translucent.

Add the Tomatoes

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes.

Mix the Ricotta

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.

Layer the Casserole

In a large baking dish, spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Place 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Repeat the layers, ending with meat sauce and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for 1 hour. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Let it Rest

Allow the casserole to rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious slow baked lasagna casserole with a side salad or garlic bread!

Serving Suggestions

This Slow Baked Lasagna Casserole is delicious on its own, but pairing it with a fresh side salad can elevate the meal. A crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagna. Additionally, some garlic bread or a baguette on the side can help soak up any extra sauce, ensuring every bite is enjoyed.

For a complete Italian dinner experience, consider serving a glass of red wine alongside your casserole. A Chianti or a Sangiovese pairs beautifully with the hearty flavors of the meat sauce and cheese, enhancing your dining experience.

Storing and Reheating

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing individual portions. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn.

When reheating, the best method is to place the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, usually about 20-30 minutes. If you're reheating individual portions, a microwave works well too. Just cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid to keep the moisture in, ensuring that every bite remains deliciously tender.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! You can freeze the lasagna casserole for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cover it tightly.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a vegan ricotta alternative if you're looking for a dairy-free option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.