Italian Lasagna Recipe Without Ricotta Cheese
This hearty, comforting Italian lasagna skips the traditional ricotta cheese for a creamy, flavorful alternative. With layers of savory marinara, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, it’s perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. Enjoy a classic dish made easy!
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles (or 12 oven-ready/no-boil noodles)
- 1 lb ground beef or sausage (optional for a meat version)
- 4 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup chopped mushrooms
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1 cup diced zucchini (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles:Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. (If using oven-ready noodles, skip this step.)
- Prepare the Meat and Vegetables: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the ground beef or sausage until cooked through. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. If adding vegetables, sauté them in the same pan until tender.
- Prepare the Cheese Spread: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with a pinch of salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Layer 3-4 lasagna noodles, followed by a spread of cream cheese mixture, a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and some of the meat/vegetable mixture.Repeat this layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake the Lasagna: Cover the lasagna with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.Let the lasagna cool for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a meatless lasagna.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and check that the marinara sauce is gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cream cheese and mozzarella for a dairy-free version.