Small Batch Lasagna

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that brings everyone together, this Small Batch Lasagna is your answer! It’s as comforting as a warm hug on a chilly night, and it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With layers of gooey cheese, savory turkey sausage, and rich marinara sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

What makes this recipe truly special? It’s not just about the flavors; it’s also about the ease of preparation. You can whip this up without spending hours in the kitchen, leaving you more time to enjoy with loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Small Batch Lasagna comes together in just over an hour, making it a breeze for any night of the week.
• Family Favorite: With its cheesy goodness and hearty filling, even picky eaters will be going back for seconds!
• Perfect Portions: Designed to serve 6, it’s ideal for small families or those who want leftovers without too much fuss.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
• Deliciously Versatile: You can easily adapt it with different ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Small Batch Lasagna. You probably have many of these on hand already!

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• kosher salt
• 1 pound turkey Italian sausage (or regular Italian sausage)
• 28 ounces marinara sauce (see notes)

For the Cheese Mixture

• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
• 1 tablespoon parsley

For Assembly

• 8 no-boil (oven-ready lasagna noodles)
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese (freshly grated)

Variations

This Small Batch Lasagna is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients.

• Swap the protein: Use ground chicken or beef instead of turkey sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Add veggies: Layer in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Change the cheese: Mix in some cottage cheese with the ricotta for a different texture or use dairy-free alternatives if needed.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes to your meat sauce for a little heat!

How to Make Small Batch Lasagna

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375℉ (190℃). Greasing a 9x9x2.5-inch baking dish will ensure easy removal later!

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a deep-sided skillet, combine olive oil, diced onion, minced garlic, and a pinch of kosher salt. Heat over medium-low until softened—about 5 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

Increase the heat to medium-high and add your turkey Italian sausage. Use a wooden spatula to break it apart as it cooks until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat—this keeps your lasagna from being greasy.

Step 4: Add Marinara Sauce

Once browned, pour in your marinara sauce from the jar. I like to add a bit of water to the jar afterward to get every last drop! No need to simmer; just stir well.

Step 5: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In another bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, parmesan cheese, parsley, and season with kosher salt and pepper. Mixing these ingredients creates that creamy filling we all love!

Step 6: Assemble Your Lasagna

Spread some meat sauce at the bottom of your prepared dish. Then start layering! Alternate between no-boil noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese until you reach the top. End with delicious mozzarella so you get that beautiful golden crust when baked!

Now you’re all set! Just pop that bad boy into the oven and let it bake until bubbly and golden brown. Enjoy every cheesy bite of this comforting Small Batch Lasagna!

Pro Tips for Making Small Batch Lasagna

Making a delicious Small Batch Lasagna is all about the little details, and I’m here to help you get it just right!

• Prep Your Ingredients Ahead of Time: Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go ensures a smoother cooking process and helps you avoid any last-minute stress.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Opting for freshly grated mozzarella and parmesan not only enhances the flavor but also gives your lasagna that gooey, melty texture we all love.
• Layer Strategically: Start with sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking, and alternate layers of noodles, meat sauce, and cheese. This helps create a balanced flavor in each bite.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing your lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking helps it set up properly, making it easier to slice and serve while keeping everything intact.
• Customize Your Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to swap in your favorite veggies or different types of cheese. This recipe is flexible enough to accommodate your personal tastes!

How to Serve Small Batch Lasagna

Serving this Small Batch Lasagna can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil adds a burst of color and a fragrant touch that complements the rich flavors.
• Parmesan Shavings: A few shavings of freshly grated parmesan on top can enhance both the presentation and flavor profile.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper brings an extra kick that balances out the richness of the cheese.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is a classic companion that soaks up any leftover sauce. Perfect for mopping up every last bit!
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty lasagna.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus provide color and nutrition while complementing the savory flavors of the dish.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds a pop of green and is packed with nutrients, making it an ideal side for this comforting meal.

With these serving tips in hand, you’re ready to impress family or friends with your Small Batch Lasagna! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Small Batch Lasagna is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade comfort food throughout the week. With its easy assembly, you can save time and ensure you always have a satisfying meal ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the lasagna to cool completely before storing.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Assemble the lasagna but do not bake it yet.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then wrap in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375℉ (or 190℃).
• Cover the lasagna with foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil in the last 10 minutes for a bubbly top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Small Batch Lasagna.

Can I use different types of meat for Small Batch Lasagna?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or even a vegetarian meat alternative. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

What makes this Small Batch Lasagna recipe special?

This recipe is special because it balances simplicity and flavor while being perfect for smaller households. It’s easy to prepare, full of cheesy goodness, and ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

How long does it take to prepare Small Batch Lasagna?

The preparation time for this Small Batch Lasagna is approximately 35 minutes, followed by an additional 35 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in just about an hour!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Small Batch Lasagna recipe brings joy and warmth to your kitchen! It’s packed with flavor and is incredibly comforting—perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying all on your own. I encourage you to give it a try; I’m sure you’ll love making it as much as eating it. Happy cooking!