Sunday Lasagna Pasta Casserole Supreme

Nothing says comfort food quite like a hearty, cheesy casserole that brings the best of lasagna and baked pasta together in one irresistible dish. The Sunday Lasagna Pasta Casserole Supreme is my ultimate weeknight winner, combining layers of tender noodles, rich meat sauce, and creamy cheeses in a dish that’s perfect for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week ahead. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and fills your heart with cozy, satisfied smiles.

Why It’s My Go-To

This casserole has earned a permanent spot in my recipe rotation because it’s incredibly versatile and utterly foolproof. Unlike traditional lasagna, which can be a bit time-consuming and fussy to assemble, this Sunday Lasagna Pasta Casserole Supreme simplifies the process without sacrificing any of the flavor or texture that make lasagna so beloved. With layers of ground beef and turkey mingling with a fragrant tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, every bite delivers that perfect balance of savory and cheesy goodness.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up pantry staples and leftover ingredients, making it budget-friendly and practical. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or craving a dish that tastes like it took hours but really didn’t, this casserole has you covered. It’s also a perfect gateway recipe if you’re looking to explore more baked pasta dishes like Creamy Baked Ziti With Meat Sauce.

Ingredient Rundown

• 12 lasagna noodles: These are the foundation of the casserole. They provide structure and that classic lasagna texture. I recommend boiling them until just al dente so they finish cooking perfectly in the oven.
• 1 pound ground beef: Adds rich, savory flavor and a hearty texture. Using lean ground beef keeps the dish from becoming too greasy.
• 1 pound ground turkey: A lighter meat option that blends beautifully with beef, creating a balanced, wholesome meat sauce.
• 1 onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed with the meats.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is essential for that aromatic, savory boost in the sauce.
• 24 ounces marinara sauce: The star of the sauce layer—choose a good-quality marinara or make your own for extra flavor.
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese: Brings creamy richness and a slightly tangy flavor that mellows out the tomato sauce.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: For that melty, stretchy cheese pull everyone loves.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty finish that complements the other cheeses perfectly.
• 1 egg: Binds the ricotta mixture together so it doesn’t slide around when sliced.
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped: Fresh herbs elevate the dish by adding brightness and aromatic notes.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Italian seasoning that rounds out the sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning all the layers to perfection.

Tools of the Trade

• Large pot: For boiling the lasagna noodles until al dente.
• Skillet or sauté pan: To brown the ground beef and turkey with onions and garlic.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the ricotta, egg, Parmesan, and herbs.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect for layering the casserole and baking it evenly.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring and spreading the sauce and cheese layers.
• Aluminum foil: To cover the casserole while baking, keeping it moist.

Stepwise Method: Sunday Lasagna Pasta Casserole Supreme

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 lasagna noodles and cook until al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef and ground turkey, breaking them up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, chopped fresh basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In your 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a third of the shredded mozzarella. Spoon over a third of the meat sauce. Repeat the layers: noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, meat sauce. Finish with a final layer of noodles, meat sauce, and the remaining mozzarella cheese sprinkled on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the casserole tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This rest time ensures the layers set beautifully for neat serving.

In-Season Flavor Ideas

• Add roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms to the meat sauce for an earthier flavor.
• Swap fresh basil for fresh oregano or thyme to change up the herb profile.
• Incorporate chopped spinach or kale into the ricotta layer for a boost of greens.
• During summer, stir in sun-dried tomatoes for a concentrated burst of sweetness.
• Try a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese for a different melty texture and taste.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

• Overcooking the noodles: It’s tempting to cook pasta until soft, but for this casserole, noodles should be al dente since they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Overcooked noodles become mushy and lose structure.
• Skipping the rest time: Cutting into the casserole right out of the oven leads to a sloppy mess. Letting it rest allows the layers to firm up for cleaner slices.
• Using watery ricotta: Some ricotta cheeses can be watery, which will make the filling too runny. Drain any excess moisture by straining the ricotta through cheesecloth or a fine sieve.
• Not seasoning each layer: Remember to taste and season the meat sauce and ricotta mixture separately so every bite is flavorful.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

This casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes.

For longer storage, freeze the whole casserole before baking or freeze individual portions after baking. Wrap well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven for best results.

Common Qs About Sunday Lasagna Pasta Casserole Supreme

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the ground beef and turkey for a mix of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and lentils or crumbled tofu to keep the hearty texture and flavor without meat.

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

Yes, no-boil noodles can be used to save time. Just be sure to increase the sauce slightly to ensure the noodles soften properly during baking.

How do I prevent the casserole from being too watery?

Drain excess liquid from the ricotta and the cooked meat mixture. Also, make sure to simmer the sauce to reduce excess moisture before assembling.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Definitely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time since it will start cold.

Keep Cooking

• For a cozy soup twist, try Lasagna Soup With Ricotta, a lighter yet equally comforting option.
• If you love baked pasta dishes, explore the rich flavors of Creamy Baked Ziti With Meat Sauce for dinner inspiration.
• Master the art of homemade marinara sauce to elevate your Sunday Lasagna Pasta Casserole Supreme even further.
• Experiment with different cheeses like fontina or gouda for a unique cheesy layer in your casseroles.

The Takeaway

The Sunday Lasagna Pasta Casserole Supreme is the ultimate comfort dish that brings together all the best elements of classic lasagna in a simplified, crowd-pleasing casserole form. It’s a perfect blend of rich meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella layered with tender noodles, making it a reliable recipe for busy nights or special family dinners. With easy prep, customizable ingredients, and freezer-friendly storage options, it’s easy to see why this casserole is a beloved staple on my table.

Whether you’re new to baked pasta dishes or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers consistent, mouthwatering results that will have everyone asking for seconds. So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of cozy, cheesy happiness any day of the week.

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