Introduction

Mini Lasagnes with Tomato Sauce and Ricotta

Mini lasagnes are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, perfect for family meals or gatherings. This recipe combines the rich flavors of tomato sauce and creamy ricotta, all wrapped in layers of pasta. Not only are they delicious, but they can also be frozen for future enjoyment, making them a convenient choice for busy weeknights.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Pasta sheets

Lasagna pasta sheets, preferably fresh or pre-cooked, are needed for layering.

Tomato sauce

A generous amount of tomato sauce, roughly 400 grams, serves as the base for adding flavor.

Ricotta cheese

About 250 grams of ricotta cheese provides a creamy texture and delicious taste.

Parmesan cheese

Grated Parmesan cheese, around 100 grams, is essential for that authentic Italian flavor.

Spinach

A handful of fresh spinach adds a touch of color and nutrition to the dish.

Italian herbs

A combination of Italian herbs, such as basil and oregano, enhances the overall taste.

Salt and pepper

These seasonings are necessary for elevating flavors and balancing the dish.

Prep Time

Preparation: 20 minutes

The preparation involves gathering all your ingredients, preparing the tomato sauce, and layering the pasta with cheese and spinach.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Bake the mini lasagnes for about 30 minutes until they’re bubbling and golden.

Total Time: 50 minutes

This includes both preparation and cooking time.

Yield: Serves 4

This recipe yields enough mini lasagnes to serve four people, making it perfect for a small gathering or family dinner.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Start by heating olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, then sauté until they soften. Next, add canned tomatoes, salt, pepper, and any desired herbs. Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes until it thickens.

Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with an egg, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Assemble the Mini Lasagnes

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce at the bottom. Layer the lasagna sheets, followed by the ricotta mixture and a layer of the sauce. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce. Sprinkle grated cheese on top.

Bake the Mini Lasagnes

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Cool and Freeze

After baking, allow the mini lasagnes to cool for about 10 minutes. If you plan to freeze them, let them cool completely before wrapping individual portions in plastic wrap and storing them in an airtight container.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

These mini lasagnes can be served with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Storage Instructions

Frozen mini lasagnes can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, place in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through.

Ingredient Variations

Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the ricotta mix for added nutrition. You can also use different types of cheese for variation.

Cooking Time

The total cooking and preparation time is approximately 1 hour, including baking. Adjust as necessary for your oven and altitude.

Cook techniques

Layering

Layering is essential when assembling mini lasagnes. Start with a base layer of sauce, then alternate between sheets of pasta, ricotta, and more sauce to build the structure and flavor.

Freezing

Mini lasagnes can be frozen for future meals. Before freezing, ensure they are tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn and preserve their taste and texture.

Baking

When baking mini lasagnes, ensure they are cooked evenly. A covered dish can help retain moisture, ensuring the pasta cooks through without drying out.

FAQ

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can experiment with various types of pasta sheets, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, depending on dietary preferences.

How long can I freeze mini lasagnes?

Mini lasagnes can be frozen for up to three months for the best quality.

What sauce can I substitute for tomato sauce?

You can substitute tomato sauce with béchamel or pesto, depending on your flavor preference.

How should I reheat frozen mini lasagnes?

To reheat, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at a moderate temperature until heated through.

Conclusion

The mini lasagnes with tomato sauce and ricotta are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. They serve as a fantastic main dish that can be enjoyed fresh or frozen for later. This recipe is ideal for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze while ensuring you have a comforting meal ready whenever you need it.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Lasagna

Try swapping ricotta for a mixture of sautéed spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms for a lighter, veggie-packed lasagna.

Meat Lasagna

Add ground beef or turkey to your tomato sauce for a heartier option, making it a perfect dish for meat lovers.

Cheesy Pesto Lasagna

Incorporate a layer of pesto with mozzarella cheese for a flavorful twist that adds a burst of freshness to your lasagne.

White Sauce Mini Lasagna

Use a bechamel sauce instead of tomato sauce for a creamy, indulgent lasagna that pairs wonderfully with chicken or seafood.

Spinach and Feta Mini Lasagna

Combine ricotta with crumbled feta and fresh spinach for a Mediterranean-inspired version that’s both savory and satisfying.