Ultimate Comfort Food: Delicious Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta and Cottage Cheese for a Family Feast

#### Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta and Cottage CheeseLasagna is a beloved Italian dish that has captured the hearts and appetites of people around the world……

#### Lasagna Recipe with Ricotta and Cottage Cheese

Lasagna is a beloved Italian dish that has captured the hearts and appetites of people around the world. This layered pasta dish is not only comforting and satisfying but also versatile, allowing for various fillings and sauces. In this recipe, we will focus on a delightful lasagna recipe with ricotta and cottage cheese, which combines the creamy texture of ricotta with the lightness of cottage cheese, creating a rich and flavorful filling that elevates the entire dish.

#### Ingredients for Lasagna

To prepare your lasagna, you will need the following ingredients:

- **Lasagna noodles**: 12 sheets (you can use no-boil noodles to save time)

- **Ricotta cheese**: 2 cups

- **Cottage cheese**: 1 cup

- **Mozzarella cheese**: 3 cups, shredded

- **Parmesan cheese**: 1 cup, grated

- **Eggs**: 2 large

- **Marinara sauce**: 4 cups (store-bought or homemade)

- **Fresh basil**: 1/4 cup, chopped (optional)

- **Garlic**: 2 cloves, minced

- **Salt and pepper**: to taste

- **Olive oil**: for greasing the baking dish

#### Preparation Steps

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your lasagna cooks evenly and thoroughly.

2. **Prepare the Cheese Mixture**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, eggs, half of the mozzarella cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and fresh basil (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

3. **Cook the Noodles**: If you are using traditional lasagna noodles, cook them according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.

4. **Assemble the Lasagna**: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread one-third of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by another layer of marinara sauce. Repeat this process two more times, finishing with a layer of noodles topped with marinara sauce.

5. **Add the Final Touches**: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top layer of sauce. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust when baked.

6. **Bake the Lasagna**: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, you can spray the foil with cooking spray) and bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

7. **Let it Rest**: Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it sit for about 15 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve.

#### Serving Suggestions

Serve your delicious lasagna recipe with ricotta and cottage cheese with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion where comfort food is needed. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

#### Conclusion

This lasagna recipe with ricotta and cottage cheese is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and texture. The combination of cheeses creates a creamy filling that pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce and tender noodles. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process of making this classic dish and savor every bite!