Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or Italian sausage, casings removed)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup/150g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce) can (794g) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15 ounce) can (425g) tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 8 ounces (225g) lasagna noodles, cooked according to package directions, then cut or torn into bite-sized pieces. (About 4 cups).
  • 15 ounces (425g) whole milk cottage cheese
  • 1 cup (115g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese, divided
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
  4. While the sauce simmers, cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Roughly chop/tear into bite-sized pieces.
  5. Divide the cooked lasagna noodles among the serving bowls.
  6. Top each bowl with cottage cheese, meat sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
  7. Place the bowls in the oven under the broiler for 2 minutes, or microwave each bowl individually for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch it closely under the broiler to avoid burning!
  8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, and serve immediately.