Step 1: Preheat & Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce
- Brown ground beef, sausage, and onion in a large skillet over medium heat (8-10 minutes). Drain excess fat.
- Add garlic; cook 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- Combine ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, and eggs in a bowl. Mix well.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna
- Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in the baking dish.
- Layer 4 noodles, overlapping slightly.
- Spread 1/3 ricotta mixture, 1/3 meat sauce, and 1/3 cheddar cheese.
- Repeat layers twice, ending with meat sauce.
- Top with remaining mozzarella.
Step 6: Bake & Enjoy!
- Cover with foil; bake 25 minutes.
- Remove foil; bake 15-20 minutes more, until bubbly and cheese is melted.
- Cool 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Notes
- Meat Options: All ground beef works well, but beef and sausage add extra flavor.
- Cheese: Whole milk ricotta makes it creamier. Cottage cheese is a possible substitute.
- Noodles: No-boil noodles save time; ensure enough sauce for moisture.
Variations
Spicy Cowboy Lasagna
- Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.
Vegetarian Cowboy Lasagna
- Substitute meat with bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach.
Extra Cheesy Cowboy Lasagna
- Add 1 cup mozzarella and 1/2 cup provolone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Ahead?
Yes! Assemble up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and add 10-15 minutes to baking time.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave.
Can I Freeze It?
Yes! Freeze the assembled (unbaked) lasagna for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Trisha Yearwood’s Cowboy Lasagna is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!
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