Lasagna is a timeless comfort food that brings everyone to the table. With Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna, we can enjoy all the rich, cheesy layers without the hassle of boiling noodles. It’s a game-changer for busy weeknights or anytime we want a delicious, homemade meal with less prep.
This recipe combines creamy ricotta, savory meat sauce, and gooey mozzarella into a perfectly baked dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Using Creamette’s oven-ready noodles saves us time and keeps the layers intact, making cleanup easier too. Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful lasagna that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
To create a delicious and effortless Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna, we use a combination of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese mixture, and carefully selected additional ingredients. Each component enhances the layers of flavor and texture, making this dish a true family favorite.
For the Meat Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably 85% lean for balanced flavor)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce or your favorite pasta sauce
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Cheese Mixture
- 15 oz ricotta cheese (whole milk ricotta works best for creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
Additional Ingredients
- 1 (12 oz) package Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna noodles
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
| Ingredient Group | Key Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Meat Sauce | Ground beef, onion, garlic, marinara sauce | 1 lb, 1 small, 2 cloves, 24 oz jar |
| Cheese Mixture | Ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg | 15 oz, 1 cup, ½ cup, 1 large egg |
| Additional | Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna noodles, mozzarella topping | 12 oz, 2 cups |
This selection ensures our lasagna layers each boast the perfect balance of savory, creamy, and cheesy textures while the Oven Ready noodles simplify preparation and cut down on time without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna recipe efficiently and with ease, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool plays a crucial role in layering the flavors and achieving that perfect texture.
Essential Tools for Our Lasagna
- 9×13-inch baking dish: Ideal size for layering the lasagna evenly and allowing thorough baking. Glass or ceramic works best for even heat distribution.
- Large skillet or sauté pan: For cooking the savory meat sauce. A wide pan allows us to brown the ground beef and soften onions uniformly.
- Mixing bowls: We need separate bowls for combining the ricotta cheese mixture and for preparing other ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy in our recipe ensures consistent flavor and texture every time.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Used for stirring the meat sauce and folding the cheese mixture gently.
- Aluminum foil: To cover the lasagna while baking, preventing excessive browning on top.
- Oven mitts: Safety first while handling hot dishes coming out of the oven.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping onions and garlic finely, which enhances the flavor release in the sauce.
Equipment Summary Table
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 9×13-inch baking dish | Layering and baking the lasagna | Glass or ceramic preferred |
| Large skillet | Cooking meat sauce | Wide surface for even cooking |
| Mixing bowls | Combining cheese mixtures and ingredients | Multiple sizes helpful |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Accurate measurement of ingredients | Essential for recipe consistency |
| Wooden spoon/spatula | Stirring and folding mixtures | Gentle enough for cheese |
| Aluminum foil | Covering dish during baking | Prevents top from burning |
| Oven mitts | Handling hot cookware | Must fit securely for safety |
| Knife and cutting board | Chopping aromatics like onions and garlic | Sharp knife for fine cuts |
Ensuring we have this equipment ready beforehand streamlines the cooking process. It allows us to focus on building each rich, delicious layer in our Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna confidently and without interruption.
Prep Work
To make our Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna truly delicious and easy to assemble, proper prep work is essential. Let’s break down the critical steps for crafting the sauce and cheese mixture before layering.
Preparing the Sauce
We begin by creating a flavorful meat sauce that perfectly complements the oven-ready noodles.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 pound of ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in 1 finely chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
- Pour in 24 ounces of marinara sauce.
- Season with:
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
“This rich sauce builds the savory depth crucial for our Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna’s hearty flavor.”
Preparing the Cheese Mixture
While the sauce simmers, we prepare the creamy cheese mixture that will meld beautifully with the noodles and sauce layers.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Mix gently until smooth and well combined.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Ricotta cheese | 15 ounces | Use whole or part-skim |
| Egg | 1 large | Lightly beaten |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup shredded | Freshly shredded |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup grated | Freshly grated |
“This mixture adds richness and a creamy texture that balances the robustness of the meat sauce perfectly.”
With our sauce simmering and cheese mixture ready, we are set to assemble our Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna confidently and efficiently.
Directions
Follow these precise steps to assemble and bake our Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna for a perfect, hearty meal every time.
Layering the Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of the prepared meat sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange a single layer of Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping slightly.
- Spoon one-third of the cheese mixture over the noodles, spreading it evenly.
- Add another layer of meat sauce, ensuring even coverage.
- Repeat the noodle, cheese mixture, and meat sauce layering two more times, finishing with a layer of noodles topped by the remaining meat sauce.
- Sprinkle with the reserved shredded mozzarella cheese to create a golden, bubbly topping.
Baking Instructions
- Cover the assembled lasagna tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
- Place the baking dish on the center rack of the preheated oven.
- Bake for 45 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese topping is golden brown and bubbly.
- Use oven mitts for safety when handling the hot baking dish.
| Step | Temperature | Time (minutes) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Covered baking | 375°F (190°C) | 45 | Keeps noodles tender |
| Uncovered baking | 375°F (190°C) | 15 | Achieves golden cheesy crust |
Cooling and Serving
- Allow the lasagna to cool for at least 15 minutes after baking. This step helps the layers set firmly for cleaner slices.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the lasagna into portions.
- Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, savory layers of our Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna.
Tips for the Best Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna Recipe
To achieve the ultimate Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna, we need to focus on several key tips that ensure each layer shines and the dish comes out perfectly every time.
1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Using chilled cheeses or cold meat sauce straight from the fridge can affect layering and baking time. Let your ricotta, mozzarella, and meat sauce sit out for 15 to 20 minutes before assembly for even cooking and smoother layering.
2. Properly Layering the Lasagna
Layer with intention:
- Start with a thin spread of meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Alternate layers like this:
meat sauce → Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna noodles → cheese mixture → repeat - Finish with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella for that golden bubbly topping.
“Layering is the secret to a rich and balanced taste, ensuring every bite contains the perfect mix of savory sauce, creamy cheese, and tender noodles.”
3. Avoid Overlapping Noodles
The Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna noodles are designed to fit snugly without boiling, so avoid overlapping them. This prevents uneven cooking and ensures the noodles fully absorb the sauce during baking.
4. Cover With Foil Tightly
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil while baking the first 45 minutes. This traps steam, ensuring noodles soften and the lasagna cooks evenly.
| Baking Stage | Temperature | Time | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Covered with foil | 375°F (190°C) | 45 minutes | Soften noodles, melt cheese |
| Uncovered | 375°F (190°C) | 15 minutes | Brown top, develop crust |
5. Let It Rest Before Slicing
Allow the baked lasagna to rest at least 15 minutes before cutting. This lets layers set, making slices neat and preventing the sauce from running.
6. Customize Your Sauce for Extra Flavor
Enhance the meat sauce by:
- Adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano
- Splashing a little red wine for depth
- Using a mix of ground beef and Italian sausage
7. Measure Ingredients Accurately
Precision helps consistency. Use measuring cups and spoons for your cheese mixtures and sauce portions to balance flavors and textures.
Adhering to these tips guarantees the best results from your Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna, making every bite a rewarding experience of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
To enjoy our Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna with ease and convenience, mastering the make-ahead and storage techniques is essential. These strategies save time and preserve the rich flavors and textures after preparation.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Assemble the lasagna completely according to the recipe but do not bake.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and moisture loss.
- Label the dish with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months.
Pro Tip: For best results, if freezing, slightly underbake the lasagna by 10 minutes before freezing. This ensures even cooking when reheated.
Baking from Refrigerated State
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Remove plastic wrap and cover with foil.
- Bake covered for 45 to 50 minutes.
- Uncover and bake an additional 15 to 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Let rest for at least 15 minutes before serving to set layers.
Baking from Frozen State
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Remove plastic wrap and cover with foil.
- Bake covered for 90 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until heated through and browned.
- Allow to stand for 20 minutes before slicing and serving.
Storage Guidelines
| Storage Method | Temperature | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 34°F to 40°F | Up to 3 days | Store in airtight container |
| Freezer | 0°F or below | Up to 3 months | Wrap tightly to avoid freezer burn |
Leftover Reheating Tips
- Cover the portion with foil to prevent drying.
- Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave reheating works for individual portions on medium power for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring halfway.
By following these Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions, we ensure every serving of our Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna retains its creamy texture, savory depth, and gooey cheese layers, perfect for busy days or planned family meals.
Conclusion
Using Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna noodles transforms a classic comfort dish into a quick and hassle-free meal. It’s a perfect solution when we want hearty flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
With simple prep and easy layering, this recipe fits seamlessly into busy schedules while still delivering rich, satisfying results. We can confidently serve a delicious, family-friendly lasagna that’s ready to impress every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna noodles different from regular noodles?
Creamette Oven Ready Lasagna noodles don’t require boiling before baking. They absorb moisture from the sauce and other ingredients, saving prep time and simplifying cleanup.
Can I use different meats in the meat sauce?
Yes, you can customize the meat sauce by using ground turkey, chicken, sausage, or a mix of meats to suit your taste preferences.
Do I need to soak or boil oven-ready noodles before assembling?
No, oven-ready noodles are designed to be used straight from the package without boiling or soaking, making the assembly faster and easier.
What size baking dish should I use for this lasagna recipe?
A 9×13-inch baking dish is recommended for even layering and baking, fitting the recipe’s quantities perfectly.
Why is it important to let the lasagna rest before slicing?
Letting the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes allows it to set, resulting in cleaner slices and better presentation.
Can I prepare this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate or freeze it for up to 3 months before baking.
How do I bake frozen pre-assembled lasagna?
Bake the frozen lasagna covered at 375°F (190°C) for about 75 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes for a bubbly, golden top.
What are some tips for layering lasagna with oven-ready noodles?
Use room temperature ingredients, avoid overlapping noodles, layer sauce and cheese evenly, and cover tightly with foil during baking to trap moisture.
Can I add fresh herbs to the meat sauce?
Absolutely! Adding fresh basil, oregano, or parsley enhances the flavor and freshness of the meat sauce.
How should I store leftover lasagna?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.