We’ve all craved that comforting lasagna on a busy weeknight but dreaded the extra steps of boiling noodles. Our Creamette No Boil Lasagna Recipe changes the game with its effortless approach to classic Italian flavors using high-quality no-boil pasta.
This dish draws from traditional roots while embracing modern convenience from Creamette’s innovative noodles. We love how it lets us layer rich sauces and cheeses for a hearty meal without the fuss.
Whether you’re a home cook or a lasagna enthusiast you’ll enjoy the simple prep that delivers big on taste.
Ingredients
We love how our Creamette No Boil Lasagna Recipe simplifies weeknight dinners by using high-quality no-boil noodles that deliver authentic Italian taste without extra steps. Let’s break down the essential ingredients to create a hearty, layered masterpiece.
For the Meat Sauce
To build a rich, flavorful base for our Creamette No Boil Lasagna, start with these ingredients, listed in the order we prepare them:
- 1 pound ground beef (lean, for browning first to lock in juices)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped, added after beef to build aroma)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced, stirred in next for a punch of flavor)
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes (use a high-quality brand for depth)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (for thickening and intensifying the sauce)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (sprinkled in for classic Italian herbs)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (added alongside oregano for balanced seasoning)
- Salt and pepper (to taste, seasoned during simmering for 15-20 minutes)
For the Cheese Filling
This creamy mixture forms the heart of our lasagna layers, providing a smooth contrast to the meat sauce—gather these ingredients in the sequence we mix them.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese (whole milk variety, for a rich and creamy base)
- 1 large egg (beaten, added to bind the filling)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for enhanced flavor)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided, with half mixed in and half reserved for topping)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped, stirred in for a fresh, herbaceous note)
- Salt and pepper (to taste, seasoned lightly to complement the cheeses)
For the Lasagna Layers
These components ensure our Creamette no-boil lasagna noodles absorb flavors perfectly while assembling the dish—organize them as we layer for easy building.
- 1 package (9 ounces) Creamette no-boil lasagna noodles (use exactly as is, no pre-cooking required)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (from the cheese filling portion, sprinkled between layers)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (reserved for final topping)
- Additional meat sauce (as needed, from the prepared batch above)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, torn and placed on top for garnish and extra aroma)
Required Tools and Equipment
Now that we have gathered our flavorful ingredients for the Creamette No Boil Lasagna, let’s focus on the essential tools and equipment to ensure a seamless assembly and baking process. In our experience, having the right items on hand makes preparation efficient and helps achieve that perfect, bubbly finish.
To get started, here’s a detailed list of the key tools we’ll need:
- 9×13-inch baking dish: This is our primary vessel for layering the lasagna; opt for a glass or ceramic one to evenly distribute heat and prevent sticking, ensuring the noodles soften perfectly without boiling.
- Large mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the creamy cheese filling; we recommend one with a 4-quart capacity to easily mix ricotta, egg, and herbs without spills.
- Medium mixing bowl: Use this for preparing the meat sauce; its 2-quart size keeps things contained while stirring ground beef and tomatoes.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Essential for stirring and mixing ingredients; the flexible silicone version is our go-to for scraping bowl sides and folding in cheeses without damaging nonstick surfaces.
- Measuring cups and spoons set: Accuracy is key for our recipe, so a standard set helps measure ingredients like 1 cup of ricotta or 1 tablespoon of Italian herbs precisely.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board: These are crucial for chopping onions, garlic, and herbs; choose a sharp 8-inch knife to make prep quick and safe.
- Oven thermometer: While not always necessary, this tool verifies your oven reaches the required 375°F, guaranteeing even baking and optimal texture for the lasagna layers.
- Aluminum foil: Perfect for covering the baking dish during the initial bake; it prevents the top from over-browning while the no-boil noodles absorb moisture.
For quick reference, here’s a breakdown of how these tools enhance our cooking efficiency:
| Tool | Purpose | Why It’s Essential |
|---|---|---|
| 9×13-inch baking dish | Layering and baking | Ensures even heat distribution for tender noodles |
| Large mixing bowl | Cheese filling preparation | Provides ample space for thorough mixing |
| Wooden spoon | Stirring sauces and mixtures | Offers durability and prevents scratching |
| Measuring cups | Precise ingredient measurement | Maintains recipe accuracy for consistent results |
With these tools ready, we’re set to move forward with the step-by-step assembly, making our Creamette No Boil Lasagna both straightforward and delicious.
Instructions
With our ingredients prepped and tools at hand, we guide you through crafting the Creamette No Boil Lasagna Recipe step by step for a hearty flavorful meal. Let’s ensure each layer builds rich Italian-inspired tastes without the boil.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we focus on creating the meat sauce and cheese filling to form the base of our Creamette No Boil Lasagna Recipe.
- Make the meat sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef for 5-7 minutes until no pink remains. Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves then cook for 3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, a 6-ounce can of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes stirring occasionally to blend the robust savory flavors that will infuse the lasagna.
- Prepare the cheese filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine 15 ounces of ricotta cheese with 1 large egg, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy this creates a luscious layer that melts beautifully during baking.
Assemble the Lasagna
Now we layer our Creamette No Boil Lasagna Recipe in a 9×13-inch baking dish for even distribution of flavors and textures.
- Spread the base sauce: Coat the bottom of the baking dish with 1 cup of the prepared meat sauce to prevent sticking and add foundational moisture.
- Add the first noodle layer: Place 4-5 no-boil lasagna noodles evenly over the sauce ensuring they fit without overlapping for optimal absorption.
- Layer the cheese and sauce: Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles followed by half of the remaining meat sauce and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat with another layer of noodles, the rest of the ricotta mixture, the remaining meat sauce, and top with 1 more cup of mozzarella cheese for a gooey golden finish.
- Final touches: If desired, sprinkle 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves on top this adds a vibrant aromatic note that enhances the dish’s sensory appeal.
Bake the Lasagna
Finally, we bake our Creamette No Boil Lasagna Recipe to achieve a bubbly perfectly melded result with minimal effort.
- Preheat and cover: Set your oven to 375°F and cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and promote even cooking.
- Bake initially: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes allowing the noodles to soften and flavors to intensify.
- Uncover and finish: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling with a delightful aroma filling the kitchen. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving to set the layers for easier slicing.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our Creamette No Boil Lasagna is its flexibility for busy schedules—we can assemble it ahead of time to let flavors meld and intensify, creating an even more irresistibly savory and cheesy dish when we’re ready to bake. This method ensures the no-boil noodles absorb moisture perfectly, resulting in a hearty, traditional Italian-inspired meal with minimal effort on the day of serving.
Assembling in Advance
To prepare our Creamette No Boil Lasagna ahead, follow these steps after completing the assembly as described in the previous section:
- Layer the ingredients as directed: Start with the meat sauce base, add the no-boil noodles, cheese filling, and top layers, ensuring everything is evenly distributed for optimal flavor infusion.
- Cover the baking dish securely: Use aluminum foil or an airtight lid to wrap the assembled lasagna tightly, preventing drying or contamination.
- Refrigerate for short-term storage: Place the covered dish in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the herbs and cheeses to blend, enhancing the rich, aromatic essence of the sauce and filling.
Freezing for Longer Storage
For extended make-ahead options, freezing our Creamette No Boil Lasagna is straightforward and preserves its fresh, homemade quality:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Freezing (uncooked) | Up to 3 months | Wrap the assembled dish in plastic wrap, then foil, to avoid freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking for even cooking. |
| Freezing (after baking) | Up to 2 months | Cool the baked lasagna completely, slice into portions, and store in freezer-safe containers. Reheat individual servings in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes. |
Baking from Make-Ahead Prep
When it’s time to enjoy our Creamette No Boil Lasagna, adjust the baking process based on storage:
- From the refrigerator: Preheat the oven to 375°F, remove the covering, and bake for 45-50 minutes until bubbly and golden. The aromas of garlic, herbs, and melted mozzarella will fill your kitchen, signaling a perfectly set dish.
- From the freezer: Thaw in the refrigerator for 24 hours first, then follow the refrigerated baking instructions, adding 10-15 minutes to the bake time for that ooey, gooey cheese pull we all love.
By preparing our Creamette No Boil Lasagna in advance, we maximize convenience without sacrificing taste, making it a go-to for effortless family dinners.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing our take on the Creamette No Boil Lasagna, a game-changer for effortless meals that don’t skimp on flavor.
It’s perfect for us busy folks who crave hearty, authentic tastes without the extra steps.
Give it a try and you’ll see why it’s become our go-to for family dinners—simple, satisfying, and always a hit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creamette No Boil Lasagna Recipe?
The Creamette No Boil Lasagna Recipe is a convenient twist on traditional lasagna that skips boiling the noodles, saving time for busy weeknights. It uses high-quality no-boil pasta to deliver authentic Italian flavors through easy layering of a rich meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and cheeses. This method simplifies preparation while keeping the dish hearty and delicious for home cooks.
What ingredients are needed for this lasagna?
You’ll need ingredients for the meat sauce (ground beef, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and Italian herbs), cheese filling (ricotta, egg, Parmesan, mozzarella, and parsley), plus no-boil lasagna noodles and optional fresh basil. This combination creates a flavorful, layered dish without pre-cooking the pasta.
How do I make the Creamette No Boil Lasagna?
Start by preparing the meat sauce and cheese filling in mixing bowls. Layer the ingredients in a 9×13-inch baking dish: sauce, noodles, cheese mixture, and more sauce, ending with mozzarella. Bake covered at 375°F for 45-50 minutes, then uncover and bake until golden. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Can I prepare this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it covered. For longer storage, freeze it unbaked for up to 2 months. When ready, bake refrigerated lasagna for 50-60 minutes or frozen for 1-1.5 hours at 375°F, adding extra time as needed for thorough heating.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or microwave individual portions until hot. For freezing, wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Is no-boil pasta as good as regular pasta in this recipe?
Yes, no-boil pasta works just as well, absorbing flavors from the sauces and cheeses during baking for a tender texture. It maintains traditional Italian taste without the extra step of boiling, making the recipe ideal for busy schedules while delivering a hearty, authentic lasagna experience.