Description
Cheesy Beef Lasagna with Corn and Dinner Rolls
Ingredients:
For the Lasagna:
1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jar marinara sauce
9 lasagna noodles, cooked
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tbsp dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Corn:
2 cups frozen corn kernels
1 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dinner Rolls:
4 store-bought or homemade dinner rolls
1 tbsp butter, for brushing
Instructions:
Prepare the Lasagna:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet, brown the ground beef with chopped onion and garlic over medium heat.
Add the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
In a baking dish, layer the lasagna: Start with a thin layer of meat sauce, followed by noodles, then a layer of cheese mixture. Repeat until the dish is full.
Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Cook the Corn:
In a pan, heat butter over medium heat. Add the frozen corn and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the Dinner Rolls:
Warm the dinner rolls in the oven according to package instructions.
Brush with melted butter before serving.
Serve this comforting plate of cheesy lasagna with sweet corn and a soft dinner roll for a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion!
Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed sequence for perfect lasagna assembly. First, ensure your lasagna noodles are cooked al dente and laid flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking. While browning the beef, break it into very small crumbles for an even texture. After adding the marinara and herbs, let the sauce simmer for a full 10 minutes to deepen the flavor. When layering, use a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread a cup of meat sauce on the bottom first—this prevents the noodles from sticking. For the cheese layer, mix the ricotta, 1 cup of the mozzarella, and the Parmesan thoroughly. Use a spoon to dollop and then gently spread the mixture over the noodles. Repeat for two more complete layers. The final top layer should be the remaining meat sauce, followed by the last cup of shredded mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions
Plate a generous square of lasagna alongside a scoop of buttery corn and a warm, butter-brushed dinner roll. For a fresh contrast, add a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette. This meal pairs beautifully with a robust red wine like Chianti or a non-alcoholic sparkling cider. Leftover lasagna tastes even better the next day and can be reheated in the oven, covered with foil, to retain moisture.
How-to Summary
To summarize: brown beef with aromatics, simmer with sauce and herbs, and mix cheeses. In a baking dish, create alternating layers of sauce, cooked noodles, and cheese mixture. Top with mozzarella and bake at 375°F until golden. Simultaneously, sauté frozen corn in butter and warm the dinner rolls. Serve together for a complete, comforting dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the lasagna completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage are excellent substitutes for ground beef and will alter the flavor profile deliciously.
Do I have to pre-cook the lasagna noodles? If using traditional noodles, yes, to ensure they cook through. You can use “no-boil” or oven-ready noodles to skip this step; just ensure there is enough sauce around them.
How can I prevent a watery lasagna? Let your meat sauce simmer to reduce excess liquid. Also, avoid using ricotta that is too wet; draining it in a fine-mesh strainer can help.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or larger portions, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling Layers: Avoid overly thick layers of sauce or cheese, which can make the lasagna sloppy and difficult to slice neatly.
- Skipping the Simmer: Not simmering the meat sauce allows excess water to remain, leading to a soggy final dish.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Bringing your cheese mixture to room temperature before assembling helps it spread evenly and promotes even baking.
- Not Resting Before Serving: Cutting into the lasagna immediately after baking causes it to fall apart. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes to set.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef Lasagna with Corn and Dinner Rolls is the epitome of a satisfying, home-cooked meal. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. The combination of rich, meaty lasagna, sweet buttery corn, and a soft roll creates a harmonious plate that is sure to become a beloved favorite. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!