We love how the Better Homes and Gardens Lasagna Recipe from 1953 captures old-fashioned charm and timeless flavors. This classic dish has layers of tender noodles bright tomato sauce and creamy cheese that transport us back to a simpler era.
We treasure how each bite pairs tradition with comfort. It’s a recipe that reminds us of family dinners and warm gatherings around the table. When we bake this lasagna we honor the past while creating new memories in our own kitchen. Each cheesy layer invites us to indulge in a taste of history that never loses its charm.
Better Homes And Gardens Lasagna Recipe 1953
Recipe Details
| Servings | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 50 minutes |
- Preheat the oven to 375°F
- Boil 12 ounces of lasagna noodles according to package directions until they are just tender
- In a large skillet brown 1 pound of ground beef with 1 finely chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves until the meat is fully cooked
- Stir in 24 ounces of tomato sauce 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano until well blended
- Spread a thin layer of the sauce mixture in a 9×13 baking dish
- Arrange a single layer of cooked noodles over the sauce
- Spoon half of the remaining sauce on top of the noodles and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce
- Repeat with another layer of noodles sauce and cheese
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes
- Remove foil then continue baking until the cheese is golden about 10 minutes
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before cutting to preserve the layers and keep each slice intact
Ingredients
We gather these items for our nostalgic Better Homes and Gardens Lasagna Recipe 1953. Using fresh flavorful components ensures every layer is satisfying.
For The Sauce
We measure each ingredient to create a smooth earthy sauce.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Lasagna noodles | 8 ounces (uncooked) |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Onion diced | 1 small |
| Garlic minced | 2 cloves |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can (15 ounces) |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
For The Cheese Mixture
We combine creamy cheeses for a luscious indulgence.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Cottage cheese | 2 cups |
| Shredded mozzarella | 2 cups |
| Grated Parmesan | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh parsley chopped | 1 tablespoon |
Tools And Equipment
We gather essential items that simplify our cooking process. These tools help us layer our Better Homes And Gardens Lasagna Recipe 1953 without hassle.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large saucepan | We boil lasagna noodles quickly for a tender texture |
| Sturdy skillet | We brown ground beef onion and garlic for a savory base |
| 9×13 baking dish | We layer noodles sauce and cheese for thorough and even baking |
| Mixing bowls | We combine cheese mixtures that enrich each layer |
| Wooden spoon | We stir sauces without scratching cookware |
| Aluminum foil | We cover our dish to lock in moisture and prevent over-browning |
Make-Ahead Option
We assemble our lasagna layers in advance for convenience. We cover the unbaked dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or in the freezer for up to one month. We then remove it from cold storage and proceed with our primary baking steps. This method saves time and keeps our lasagna flavorful.
Directions
- Preheat our oven to 375°F (190°C) and set out a 9×13 baking dish.
- Fill a large saucepan with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add the 8 ounces of lasagna noodles then cook until noodles are tender. Drain and set aside.
- Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a sturdy skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef plus 1 small diced onion and 2 minced cloves of garlic. Stir until beef is browned.
- Stir in the 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to thicken.
- In a mixing bowl combine 2 cups of cottage cheese, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan and 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce across the baking dish. Arrange some cooked noodles on top. Add a layer of the cheese mixture then more sauce. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used.
- Cover the baking dish with foil. Transfer to the 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for about 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes so the top becomes golden and bubbly.
- Allow our lasagna to rest for 10 minutes. Slice carefully to keep each layer intact.
| Baking Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Covered in the oven | 25 min |
| Uncovered for browning | 10 min |
Storage And Reheating
We store leftover Better Homes And Gardens Lasagna Recipe 1953 portions in the refrigerator for up to three days. We place the cooled lasagna in an airtight container or wrap it tightly to maintain flavor. We freeze the dish for up to one month when we need a longer storage option. This method preserves the comforting taste of our classic lasagna.
-
Refrigerating Leftovers
- Allow the lasagna to cool completely
- Slice it into serving portions
- Transfer portions to airtight containers
- Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
-
Freezing Portions
- Wrap each slice in plastic wrap
- Cover with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn
- Store in the freezer for up to 1 month
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place lasagna in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until hot
| Storage Method | Temperature | Maximum Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 36–40°F | 3 days |
| Freezer | 0°F | 1 month |
Conclusion
This cherished recipe still delights our taste buds with its comforting layers and timeless flavor. We love that it connects us to past generations while offering a delicious way to gather around the table today
We hope this 1953 gem continues to find a place in modern kitchens and reminds us that simple ingredients can create powerful moments. Its classic taste sparks joy each time we slice into those savory layers and share them with others
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the 1953 Better Homes and Gardens Lasagna Recipe special?
This classic recipe stands out for its nostalgic charm and simple yet delicious layers. It captures the essence of 1950s home cooking by combining tender lasagna noodles, hearty tomato sauce, and creamy cheese mixtures. Each slice carries the comforting flavors of tradition, inviting you to recall old memories or create new ones. It’s a timeless dish that has remained popular because it’s both reliable and flavorful, making it the perfect go-to recipe for family gatherings and potlucks.
How long does it take to cook this lasagna?
The total time for cooking is about 50 minutes. This includes boiling the noodles, browning the meat, layering the ingredients, and baking until everything turns golden and bubbly. After baking, allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This brief waiting period ensures the layers stay intact for neat slices. In just under an hour, you’ll have a comforting, classic meal ready to be served and enjoyed.
What ingredients are needed for the sauce?
You’ll need 8 ounces of uncooked lasagna noodles, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 pound of ground beef, 1 diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, a 15-ounce can of tomato sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. These simple, pantry-friendly ingredients come together to form a hearty, flavorful sauce that complements the creamy cheese layers, creating a satisfying overall taste.
Which cheeses are used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of cottage cheese, 2 cups of shredded mozzarella, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan, and a tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley. This combination ensures a creamy and comforting texture, balanced by the classic Italian flavors of Parmesan and mozarella. The cottage cheese helps add moisture, while the parsley brightens the dish’s taste. When these cheeses melt and mingle with the tomato sauce, each bite brings out a rich, indulgent moment.
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can. After assembling the lasagna, cover it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or in the freezer for up to one month. This is perfect for busy days or when you want to plan meals in advance. By preparing it beforehand, you only need to pop it in the oven and bake. You still get that delicious, nostalgic taste, saving yourself the rush in the kitchen on the day you plan to serve it.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover lasagna can be stored in airtight containers or wrapped tightly in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to one month. Make sure the lasagna has cooled completely before slicing and wrapping each piece in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This prevents freezer burn and maintains flavor. Proper storage ensures you always have a tasty meal ready for reheating whenever you crave a comforting slice.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover lasagna?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), loosely cover the lasagna with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until it’s warmed through. The foil helps retain moisture and keeps the cheese from browning too much. If you prefer a microwave, heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate with a cover or damp paper towel to avoid dryness. Whichever method you choose, be sure the lasagna reaches a safe temperature throughout before serving.
Do I need special tools to make this lasagna?
You’ll need a large saucepan to boil the noodles, a sturdy skillet for browning beef, and a 9×13 baking dish for layering. Mixing bowls are handy for combining cheese ingredients, while a wooden spoon helps stir sauces evenly. Keep aluminum foil on hand to cover the dish during part of the baking process. Overall, the tools are simple and likely already part of most kitchens, ensuring this lasagna is convenient to prepare.
Why let the lasagna rest before slicing?
Resting for about 10 minutes allows the cheese and sauce to settle, preventing the layers from sliding apart when you cut into it. This short wait time is worth it, as it helps keep each slice neat and easy to serve. By letting the flavors meld for a few extra minutes, you protect your dish’s beautiful layers and ensure every bite has the perfect ratio of sauce, noodles, and cheese.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This lasagna recipe typically serves six people, although portion sizes can vary depending on how hungry everyone is. Each serving is hearty enough to stand on its own, but you can always pair it with a crisp salad or garlic bread to stretch it further. If you’re cooking for more than six, consider doubling the recipe or adding extra sides. For handling leftovers, simply store or freeze individual portions for future meals.