Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 6 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Quick Answer
These Petite Lasagnes are mini pasta stacks filled with rich flavors, perfect for cozy holiday gatherings.
It's that time of year again in New York City, where the crisp fall air signals the start of cozy gatherings and festive celebrations. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, I find myself dreaming of the perfect comfort food that can warm both the heart and the home. Enter my new favorite dish: Petite Lasagnes. These delightful mini pasta stacks are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor, making them an ideal addition to any holiday feast.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for cozy gatherings and festive celebrations.
- Visually appealing mini pasta stacks that are sure to impress.
- Rich in flavor, combining savory meat sauce and creamy ricotta.
- Easy to assemble and can be made ahead of time.
- Comfort food that warms both the heart and the home.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Petite Lasagnes:
For the Lasagnes
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 ounces) ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 can (15 ounces) marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish, optional)
How to Make Petite Lasagnes (Step-by-Step)
Follow these straightforward steps to create your delicious Petite Lasagnes.
Step 1: Preheat and Cook the Noodles
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bring a large pot of water to boil for the lasagna noodles. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until they're al dente, then drain them and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it's no longer pink, draining any excess fat. Stir in half of the marinara sauce, allowing the savory aromas to fill your kitchen.
Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy, achieving a glossy texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Petite Lasagnes
In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Take a noodle, place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture on it, add a bit of meat sauce, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Repeat until you run out of noodles, typically achieving three layers. Finish with a final layer of marinara sauce topped with mozzarella and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagnes
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Let Them Rest
Once baked, let the Petite Lasagnes sit for about 10 minutes to ensure they hold their shape when served.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the noodles: Lasagna noodles should be slightly undercooked since they'll continue to soften while baking.
- Skipping the resting time: Cutting into the lasagna too soon can cause all the layers to collapse; patience is a virtue here!
- Inconsistent layering: Ensure you don't skip any layers, as each component adds vital flavor and texture-keep those layers even!
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Experiment with cheeses: Feel free to mix and match different cheeses for the filling or topping; I love adding a touch of ricotta for creaminess or some provolone for sharpness.
- Make it ahead: These can easily be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated. Just increase the baking time if they go in straight from the fridge.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds a lovely pop of color and flavor right before serving.
Variations
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- Incorporate seasonal vegetables like spinach or mushrooms into the layers.
- Swap marinara sauce for a béchamel sauce for a creamy alternative.
- Add different herbs like thyme or oregano for a unique flavor boost.
How to Serve
- Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with garlic bread for a comforting touch.
- Top with additional fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine for a festive atmosphere.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Assemble the lasagnes ahead of time and refrigerate until baking.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezing: Freeze before baking for up to 3 months; bake from frozen, adding extra time.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Each time I prepare these petite lasagnes, I'm reminded of the joy of cooking for loved ones. I've realized that creating something delicious doesn't just feed the body; it nourishes the soul, especially during the holiday season. Whether it's a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 6 servings · Serving Size: 1 petite lasagne
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~400 calories · 25g protein · 35g carbs · 18g fat
Recipe by:
Delicious Petite Lasagnes for Cozy Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bring a large pot of water to boil for the lasagna noodles. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente, then drain them and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to cool slightly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, draining any excess fat. Stir in half of the marinara sauce.
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat until you run out of noodles. Finish with marinara, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Once baked, let the Petite Lasagnes sit for about 10 minutes to ensure they hold their shape when served.
Notes
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat in the petite lasagnes?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a delicious twist.
How can I make these petite lasagnes vegetarian?
You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms instead.
Can I prepare the petite lasagnes in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the petite lasagnes ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just remember to adjust the baking time if they go into the oven straight from the fridge.
