When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the classic combination of layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce that define a great lasagna. But why settle for just any lasagna when you can take it up a notch with a rich and creamy twist? That’s where these 18 creamy lasagna casserole recipes come in – each one a delicious and satisfying take on the classic dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
From hearty beef and cheese casseroles to vegetarian options packed with spinach and mushrooms, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creamy lasagnas. And with creative twists like white chicken alfredo and spicy sausage and ricotta, you’ll never get bored with the same old recipe again.
Classic Beef and Cheese Lasagna Casserole
This hearty casserole is a comforting twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring tender beef, rich cheese, and layers of pasta. It’s perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Combine cooked beef mixture with marinara sauce.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create layers of lasagna noodles, meat sauce, and shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan).
6. Top final layer with egg beaten and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegetable Spinach Lasagna Casserole
This hearty casserole combines layers of sautéed vegetables, spinach, and lasagna noodles with a creamy ricotta cheese sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package lasagna noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. Sauté mixed vegetables in olive oil until tender. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Assemble casserole by layering cooked noodles, vegetable mixture, and ricotta cheese mixture. Repeat layers two more times, ending with the ricotta cheese mixture on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
White Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Casserole
A classic comfort food dish with a twist, this casserole combines the flavors of chicken, pasta, and creamy sauce in a convenient one-dish meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz lasagna noodles
– 2 cups cooked fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups White Chicken Alfredo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Add fettuccine pasta, White Chicken Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, create a layer of lasagna noodles. Top with the chicken and pasta mixture, then repeat the layers one more time.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Ricotta Lasagna Casserole
A twist on the classic lasagna, this casserole combines spicy sausage with creamy ricotta cheese and layers of pasta for a satisfying and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese.
5. Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
6. Spread half of the sausage mixture, then half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
7. Repeat layers, finishing with mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mushroom and Goat Cheese Lasagna Casserole
A rich and creamy casserole that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a satisfying lasagna dish.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
4. In a separate bowl, combine goat cheese and Parmesan cheese.
5. Assemble the casserole by spreading marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by layers of noodles, mushroom mixture, and goat cheese mixture. Repeat for two more layers, finishing with a layer of noodles on top.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top layer and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Three-Cheese Lasagna Casserole with Basil
This hearty casserole is a twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring three types of cheese and fresh basil for added flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
4. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
5. Spoon half of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the chopped basil.
6. Repeat layers, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese and basil.
7. Drizzle egg wash over the top and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mexican-Style Lasagna Casserole with Ground Turkey
A twist on the classic lasagna, this recipe combines the flavors of Mexico with the comfort of a casserole. Layers of ground turkey, cheese, and tortillas come together in a deliciously easy dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes with green chilies.
5. In a separate pot, cook tortillas according to package instructions.
6. Assemble the casserole: layer cooked turkey mixture, cheese, and tortillas in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with remaining cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Lasagna Casserole
This vibrant casserole combines the flavors of Italy with a creamy twist, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of pesto-infused lasagna noodles, rich sun-dried tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz lasagna noodles
– 1 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine pesto sauce, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the pesto-ricotta mixture. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
5. Repeat step 4 two more times, finishing with a layer of the pesto-ricotta mixture on top.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and chopped basil over the top layer. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Zucchini and Eggplant Lasagna Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of zucchini, eggplant, and ricotta cheese with a classic lasagna twist. Perfect for a summer dinner party or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 large eggplant, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 lasagna noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté zucchini, eggplant, onion, and garlic until tender. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
5. Assemble the casserole by spreading marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange noodles, then add zucchini mixture, followed by ricotta mixture.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Casserole
This casserole combines the flavors of buffalo chicken wings with the comfort of lasagna, making it a perfect twist on a classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cooked lasagna noodles
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add buffalo wing sauce, onion, and garlic; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked lasagna noodles, diced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and cheddar cheese.
5. In a separate skillet, sauté the buffalo chicken mixture with olive oil until heated through.
6. Assemble casserole by layering lasagna noodles, buffalo chicken mixture, and cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Seafood Lasagna Casserole with Shrimp and Crab
This decadent seafood casserole combines succulent shrimp and crab with layers of pasta, rich sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or seafood lover’s dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz lasagna noodles
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté shrimp and crab meat in olive oil until pink and heated through.
4. Combine marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
5. Assemble casserole by layering cooked lasagna noodles, seafood mixture, and cheese sauce.
6. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Lasagna Casserole
This unique twist on traditional lasagna combines the rich flavors of BBQ pulled pork with creamy ricotta cheese and tender noodles. Perfect for a comforting dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lasagna noodles
– 2 cups BBQ pulled pork (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, BBQ pulled pork, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Spread 1/2 cup of the pork mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
5. Repeat step 4 two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the casserole and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Gluten-Free Lasagna Casserole with Cauliflower Noodles
This recipe is a creative twist on the classic lasagna, substituting traditional noodles with cauliflower “noodles” to make it gluten-free. The result is a delicious and healthier take on this Italian favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey, cooked and drained
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Pulse in a food processor until it resembles noodles.
3. Cook the cauliflower “noodles” according to package instructions or steam for 5-7 minutes.
4. In a large skillet, combine marinara sauce and ground beef or turkey. Bring to a simmer and let cook while you prepare the cheese mixture.
5. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Assemble the lasagna by layering cooked cauliflower “noodles,” meat sauce, and cheese mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Lentil and Walnut Lasagna Casserole
A hearty, plant-based twist on a classic Italian dish, this casserole combines the comforting flavors of lentils and walnuts with layers of pasta and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 cup grated vegan mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked lentil mixture and chopped walnuts.
5. Assemble casserole by spreading a layer of the lentil-walnut mixture on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange 2 lasagna noodles on top, followed by half of the vegan mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers. Top with remaining cheese.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Taco Lasagna Casserole with Black Beans
A creative twist on traditional lasagna, this casserole combines the flavors of tacos with layers of pasta, black beans, and cheese. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing dinner or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz lasagna noodles
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup taco seasoning
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned, then add garlic, taco seasoning, and cumin. Stir in black beans.
4. In a separate bowl, combine enchilada sauce and shredded cheese.
5. Assemble the casserole by spreading half of the meat mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by half of the noodles, then half of the cheese mixture. Repeat layers.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Potato and Kale Lasagna Casserole
This vegan-friendly casserole combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of kale, all wrapped up in a cozy lasagna package. Perfect for a comforting dinner or a satisfying vegetarian option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup of vegan ricotta cheese (or regular ricotta for non-vegans)
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese (vegan or dairy-based)
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook sweet potatoes in boiling water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add kale and cook until wilted.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, create layers of cooked sweet potatoes, marinara sauce, and the kale mixture.
5. Top with vegan ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with basil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Philly Cheesesteak Lasagna Casserole
Philly Cheesesteak Lasagna Casserole: A Twist on a Classic!
This recipe combines the flavors of Philly cheesesteaks with the comfort of lasagna, resulting in a rich and satisfying casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned; drain excess fat.
3. In a separate pan, sauté mushrooms until tender.
4. Combine cooked beef mixture, crushed tomatoes, and mushrooms.
5. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
6. Assemble casserole by layering noodles, beef mixture, and cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, provolone).
7. Top with additional mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Lasagna Casserole
This seasonal casserole combines the warmth of pumpkin with the earthiness of sage, wrapped up in a comforting lasagna package. Perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium pumpkin (about 2 lbs), cooked and mashed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, chopped
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the onion and garlic until softened. Add the pumpkin, Parmesan cheese, and sage; stir to combine.
3. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
5. Assemble the casserole by layering cooked lasagna noodles, pumpkin mixture, and marinara-mozzarella mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a comfort food extravaganza with these 18 creamy lasagna casserole recipes! From classic beef and cheese to vegetarian options, spicy sausage to seafood twists, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to elevate your pasta game with white chicken Alfredo, mushroom and goat cheese, and three-cheese combinations. Or try a Mexican-style taco lasagna or a sweet potato and kale variation. Whatever your taste buds crave, this collection has got you covered.
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