Name: Loaf Pan Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; ½ lb Italian chicken sausages; 28 oz Whole Peeled Tomatoes; 1 clove garlic; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp sugar; 1 large egg; 1 cup ricotta cheese; ⅓ cup finely grated Parmesan; pinch ground nutmeg; pinch ground black pepper; oil; 4 no-boil lasagna noodles; ½ cup shredded mozzarella; chopped parsley

Loaf pan lasagna is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, perfect for smaller gatherings or for those who crave the hearty, layered goodness of this Italian classic but in a more manageable portion. This recipe ensures each bite is packed with flavors, from the savory chicken sausages to the creamy ricotta cheese and the bubbling mozzarella on top.

Photos of Loaf Pan Lasagna Recipe

When gathering ingredients, you may need to look out for Italian chicken sausages—these are not always readily available in every supermarket. Additionally, ensure you pick up whole peeled tomatoes and not diced or crushed, as well as ricotta cheese. No-boil lasagna noodles are also required, which differ from regular lasagna noodles as they cook in the sauce during baking.

Ingredients For Loaf Pan Lasagna

Olive oil: Used for sautéing and cooking, adding a rich flavor to the dish.

Italian chicken sausages: Provides a savory and spicy flavor to the lasagna's meat sauce.

Whole peeled tomatoes: The base for the sauce, giving a fresh tomato flavor.

Garlic: Adds an aromatic depth to the sauce.

Dried oregano: Provides a classic Italian herb flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavors of the dish.

Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

Egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture.

Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess to the layers.

Parmesan: Contributes a sharp, salty flavor to the cheese mixture.

Nutmeg: Adds a subtle warmth to the cheese filling.

Ground black pepper: Provides a hint of spice.

Oil: Used for greasing the pan, ensuring the lasagna doesn't stick.

No-boil lasagna noodles: Saves time and cooks directly in the sauce during baking.

Shredded mozzarella: Creates a gooey, cheesy topping.

Chopped parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant garnish before serving.

One reader, Brent Cornelius says:

Loaf pan lasagna is a game-changer! The layers of sausage, ricotta, and mozzarella meld perfectly, creating a rich and comforting dish. It's easy to assemble and bakes beautifully in a loaf pan. Perfect for a cozy dinner!

Brent Cornelius

Key Techniques for Perfect Loaf Pan Lasagna

How to remove sausage casing: Slice lengthwise down the side of the sausage and peel off the casing. How to break up tomatoes in a can: Use a large pair of scissors to snip and break them up into chunky pieces. How to break up tomatoes in a skillet: Use a potato masher to break up the tomatoes into smaller pieces once they soften in the heat. How to make a foil tent: Fold a large piece of foil in half and then fold it in half again to create a tent shape that will prevent it from sticking to the cheese.

How To Make Loaf Pan Lasagna

Cook a dinner for two with this loaf pan lasagna packed with Italian sausage, chunky tomato sauce, and ricotta, finished with a golden cheese topping.

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 1 hour 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbspolive oil
½lbItalian chicken sausages,(2 pcs)
28ozwhole peeled tomatoes,(1 can)
1clovegarlic,thinly sliced
1tspdried oregano
½tspsalt
¼tspsugar
1large egg
1cupricotta cheese
⅓cupfinely grated Parmesan
pinchground nutmeg
pinchground black pepper
oil,or oil spray for the loaf pan
4no-boil lasagna noodles
½cupshredded mozzarella
chopped parsley,for garnish

Instructions

In a medium skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of the oil.
Either slice the sausage into rounds or remove the casing from the sausage by slicing lengthwise down the side, then cook it like ground sausage.
When the oil shimmers, add the sausage to the pan and cook for about 6 minutes or until browned. Use a cooking utensil to break the sausage while cooking. Transfer to a plate.
Open the can of tomatoes and use a large pair of scissors to snip and break them up in the can into chunky pieces.
In the same skillet used to brown the sausage, heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and oregano.
Cook for 30 seconds, or until the garlic sizzles. Add the tomatoes with their juices, salt, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until the sauce is hot.
Use a potato masher to break up the tomatoes into smaller pieces (this is easiest to do when tomatoes soften in the heat) to get a chunky sauce.
Add the sausage back to the pan and cook for 10 minutes. Taste, and add more salt and sugar, if desired.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, stir the egg, ricotta, Parmesan, nutmeg, and pepper together.
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Brush or spray a 4×8-inch loaf pan with oil.

To Assemble:

In the bottom of the loaf pan, ladle about ½ cup tomato-sausage sauce. Top with 1 noodle. Spread with ½ cup sauce, and then spread ⅓ mounded cup of the ricotta mixture over it.
Place the second noodle on top of the sauce. Spread ⅓ mounded cup ricotta mixture over it, and top with ½ cup tomato-sausage sauce.
Place the third noodle on top of the sauce. Spread with remaining ricotta and spoon ½ cup tomato-sausage sauce over it, using up all of the remaining sausage pieces in this layer.
Place the fourth noodle on top of the sauce and spoon the remaining sauce on top. Sprinkle with the mozzarella.

To Bake:

Place the loaf pan on a baking sheet. Fold a large piece of foil in half and fold it in half again. Make a tent over the loaf pan (so it does not stick to the cheese.) Bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the pan from the oven and remove the foil tent. Check to see if the lasagna is uneven or if it peaks in the middle. If it’s uneven, use the back of a spoon to press the top layer lightly to make it level in the loaf pan and submerge the noodles in the sauce.
Turn the oven down to 375 degrees F. Return lasagna to the oven and continue to bake for 15 minutes, or until the sauce bubbles and the cheese is golden brown. (For stretchy rather than browned cheese, check after 10 minutes.)
Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 1169.82kcal
Fat: 75.31g
Saturated Fat: 26.14g
Trans Fat: 0.22g
Monounsaturated Fat: 32.65g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 10.76g
Carbohydrates: 64.60g
Fiber: 7.91g
Sugar: 13.93g
Protein: 60.39g
Cholesterol: 304.08mg
Sodium: 1857.68mg
Calcium: 871.79mg
Potassium: 1576.78mg
Iron: 5.28mg
Vitamin A: 490.80µg
Vitamin C: 65.22mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Loaf Pan Lasagna Success

When preparing the tomato-sausage sauce, use a potato masher to break up the tomatoes into smaller pieces once they have softened in the heat. This will help achieve a chunky texture and ensure the sauce evenly coats the lasagna noodles.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Loaf Pan Lasagna

Use pre-cooked sausage: Save time by using pre-cooked Italian chicken sausages instead of raw. Just slice and add to the sauce.

Opt for canned sauce: Substitute the homemade tomato sauce with a high-quality store-bought version to cut down on prep time.

Pre-shredded cheese: Use pre-shredded mozzarella and pre-grated parmesan to avoid extra grating.

Assemble ahead: Prepare the lasagna layers the night before and store in the fridge. Just bake when ready.

Microwave noodles: Soften no-boil lasagna noodles in the microwave for a few minutes to speed up assembly.

Substitute Ingredients For Loaf Pan Lasagna Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
italian chicken sausages - Substitute with turkey sausages: Turkey sausages offer a similar texture and flavor profile.
whole peeled tomatoes - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes provide a similar consistency and flavor.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor when fresh garlic is not available.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil offers a different but complementary herb flavor.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar level of saltiness along with umami.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide the same sweetness with a slightly different flavor.
egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Flaxseed meal mixed with water can act as a binding agent similar to eggs.
ricotta cheese - Substitute with cottage cheese: Cottage cheese has a similar texture and can be blended for a smoother consistency.
parmesan - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar texture and a slightly stronger flavor.
nutmeg - Substitute with cinnamon: Cinnamon can provide a warm spice note similar to nutmeg.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat and flavor profile.
oil - Substitute with butter: Butter can provide a richer flavor and similar cooking properties.
no-boil lasagna noodles - Substitute with regular lasagna noodles: Regular lasagna noodles can be pre-cooked to achieve the same result.
shredded mozzarella - Substitute with shredded provolone: Provolone has a similar melt and flavor profile.
chopped parsley - Substitute with chopped cilantro: Cilantro offers a fresh herb flavor, though slightly different.

Presenting Your Loaf Pan Lasagna

Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the loaf pan lasagna into elegant, compact portions to ensure a refined presentation. Each slice should be about 1.5 inches thick to maintain structural integrity and visual appeal.
Use a white plate: Present the lasagna on a pristine white plate to make the vibrant colors of the tomato-sausage sauce and mozzarella pop. The contrast will enhance the visual appeal.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped parsley around the lasagna slice and on top to add a touch of freshness and a burst of color. This will also add a subtle aromatic element to the dish.
Drizzle with olive oil: Lightly drizzle a high-quality olive oil around the plate to add a glossy finish and a hint of richness. This will elevate the overall presentation and flavor profile.
Add a side of microgreens: Place a small mound of microgreens, such as arugula or watercress, next to the lasagna slice. This adds a modern touch and a slight peppery flavor that complements the dish.
Use a sauce brush: Use a sauce brush to create a swoosh of extra tomato-sausage sauce on the plate before placing the lasagna slice. This adds an artistic element and ensures every bite has a bit of extra sauce.
Finish with grated parmesan: Lightly dust the top of the lasagna slice with finely grated parmesan cheese just before serving. This adds a final touch of elegance and a burst of umami flavor.
Serve with a wine pairing: Suggest a glass of robust red wine, such as Chianti or Barbera, to accompany the dish. This enhances the dining experience and complements the rich flavors of the lasagna.

Essential Tools for Making Loaf Pan Lasagna

Medium skillet: Used for browning the sausage and cooking the sauce.
Cooking utensil: Helps break the sausage into smaller pieces while cooking.
Large pair of scissors: Used to snip and break up the whole peeled tomatoes in the can.
Potato masher: Helps break up the tomatoes into smaller pieces to create a chunky sauce.
Small bowl: Used to mix the egg, ricotta, parmesan, nutmeg, and pepper together.
4x8-inch loaf pan: The main vessel for assembling and baking the lasagna.
Brush or spray bottle: Used to apply oil to the loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Ladle: Helps in portioning and spreading the tomato-sausage sauce.
Baking sheet: Placed under the loaf pan to catch any drips during baking.
Large piece of foil: Used to create a tent over the loaf pan to prevent the cheese from sticking.
Oven: Preheated to 400 degrees F initially and then reduced to 375 degrees F for baking the lasagna.
Back of a spoon: Used to press the top layer of the lasagna to make it level if it peaks in the middle.
Chopping board: Used for slicing the garlic and sausage.
Knife: Essential for slicing the garlic and sausage.

Storing and Freezing Your Loaf Pan Lasagna

Allow the lasagna to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the lasagna soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the loaf pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The lasagna will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze the lasagna. Wrap the loaf pan securely with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label the package with the date and contents.
Alternatively, cut the cooled lasagna into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
Frozen lasagna will maintain its best quality for up to 2 months. After that, it will still be safe to eat but may experience some changes in texture and flavor.
To reheat refrigerated lasagna, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the loaf pan with foil and bake for about 30 minutes, or until heated through.
For frozen lasagna, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If reheating directly from frozen, increase the baking time to 45-60 minutes, or until the center is hot and bubbly.
If reheating individual portions, microwave them on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, place the wrapped portions in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.

Reheating Loaf Pan Lasagna Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover lasagna in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the top layer of cheese from burning and drying out while the inside heats through. Bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can use your microwave. Place a single serving of lasagna on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the lasagna moist during reheating. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through. If you have a larger portion, you may need to microwave it for longer, checking at 30-second intervals to avoid overheating.
For a crispy top layer, after reheating the lasagna in the oven or microwave, you can place it under the broiler for a minute or two. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, and remove it from the broiler once the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat smaller portions of lasagna. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C), place the lasagna in an oven-safe dish, and cover it with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through and the cheese is melted.
For a stovetop method, place the lasagna in a covered skillet or saucepan over low heat. Add a few tablespoons of water or tomato sauce to the pan to help keep the lasagna moist. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.

Interesting Fact About Loaf Pan Lasagna

This loaf pan lasagna recipe is perfect for smaller gatherings or intimate dinners, as it yields a compact yet satisfying portion compared to traditional lasagna recipes.

The Economics of Homemade Loaf Pan Lasagna

The loaf pan lasagna is quite cost-effective for a household. Utilizing italian chicken sausages and whole peeled tomatoes as the primary ingredients keeps the cost manageable. The use of ricotta cheese, parmesan, and mozzarella adds richness without breaking the bank. The recipe cleverly stretches these ingredients across multiple layers, making it filling and satisfying. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost: $15-$20 for a household of 4 people.

Is Loaf Pan Lasagna a Healthy Choice?

This lasagna recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. Let's break it down:

Healthy elements:

Using whole peeled tomatoes for the sauce provides a good source of vitamins and minerals
Incorporating Italian chicken sausage adds protein to the dish
The recipe includes ricotta cheese, which is a lower-fat alternative to other cheeses commonly used in lasagna
Parmesan cheese is used in moderation, providing flavor without excessive saturated fat

Unhealthy elements:

The recipe calls for olive oil, which is high in calories and fat
No-boil lasagna noodles are often more processed than traditional noodles
The dish contains a significant amount of cheese, which can be high in saturated fat and sodium
There are no vegetables included in the recipe, missing an opportunity to add nutrients and fiber

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used or replace it with a cooking spray to minimize added fat
Incorporate vegetables into the lasagna layers, such as spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms, to increase the nutrient content and add fiber
Use whole-grain or vegetable-based lasagna noodles for a more nutrient-dense alternative
Opt for low-fat or part-skim ricotta and mozzarella cheeses to reduce the saturated fat content
Decrease the amount of sausage used and replace some of it with lean ground turkey or additional vegetables

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious lasagna that still satisfies your taste buds. Remember, enjoying foods in moderation is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, so don't be afraid to indulge in this comforting dish occasionally, especially when you've made efforts to improve its nutritional value.

Editor's Opinion on Loaf Pan Lasagna

This loaf pan lasagna is a clever twist on a classic dish, perfect for smaller servings or intimate dinners. The use of Italian chicken sausages adds a unique flavor profile, while the combination of ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella ensures a rich, creamy texture. The layering technique in a loaf pan makes it easy to assemble and bake, and the tented foil trick helps achieve perfectly melted cheese. Overall, it's a well-balanced recipe that maintains the essence of traditional lasagna with a modern, convenient approach.

Enhance Your Loaf Pan Lasagna Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Breadsticks: Complement your loaf pan lasagna with garlic breadsticks that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Infused with butter and garlic, these breadsticks will soak up every bit of that delicious tomato-sausage sauce.

Caprese Salad: Add a refreshing touch to your meal with a Caprese salad. The combination of juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze will provide a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the lasagna.

Roasted Vegetables: Balance the hearty lasagna with a medley of roasted vegetables. Think caramelized carrots, brussels sprouts, and bell peppers tossed in olive oil and herbs. The roasted flavors will add a depth of taste to your meal.

Minestrone Soup: Start your meal with a warm bowl of minestrone soup. Packed with seasonal vegetables, beans, and pasta, this hearty soup will set the stage for the main course while keeping the Italian theme alive.

Tiramisu: End on a sweet note with a classic tiramisu. Layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone cream dusted with cocoa powder will provide a luxurious finish to your Italian feast.

Similar Recipes to Try Besides Loaf Pan Lasagna

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Imagine vibrant bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce. Topped with melted cheese and baked to perfection, these stuffed peppers are a delightful main course.

Eggplant Parmesan: Layers of breaded and fried eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella and parmesan cheese. This classic Italian dish is a vegetarian delight that will satisfy any craving for comfort food.

Chicken Alfredo Lasagna: A creamy twist on traditional lasagna, this dish features layers of lasagna noodles, grilled chicken, alfredo sauce, and ricotta cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden, it's a rich and indulgent meal.

Spinach and Mushroom Manicotti: Tender manicotti shells stuffed with a mixture of spinach, mushrooms, and ricotta cheese. Smothered in marinara sauce and baked with a generous layer of mozzarella, this dish is a vegetarian's dream.

Beef and Cheese Enchiladas: Soft tortillas filled with seasoned ground beef and cheese, rolled up and smothered in a rich enchilada sauce. Baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly, these enchiladas are a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Ideal Appetizers and Desserts for a Loaf Pan Lasagna Meal

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Transform your next gathering with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump, juicy mushrooms filled with a savory blend of breadcrumbs, cream cheese, and finely chopped herbs. The breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch, while the cream cheese ensures a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience. A touch of garlic and parmesan elevates the flavor profile, making these mushrooms an irresistible start to any meal. Serve them hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Bruschetta: Delight your guests with a classic bruschetta that bursts with fresh flavors. Start with slices of toasted baguette, brushed with olive oil and lightly rubbed with garlic. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, and a hint of balsamic vinegar. The tomatoes provide a juicy, sweet contrast to the crunchy baguette, while the basil adds a fragrant, herbaceous note. Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the natural flavors. This appetizer is a perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a decadent chocolate lava cake with a molten center that oozes out as you cut into it. This dessert is perfect for those who love a rich, gooey chocolate experience. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, allowing the cold and creamy texture to contrast beautifully with the warm, flowing chocolate. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh raspberries for a touch of elegance. This dessert is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Tiramisu: Transport your taste buds to Italy with a classic tiramisu. This layered dessert features espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a luscious mascarpone cheese mixture. The combination of coffee and cocoa creates a delightful balance of flavors that is both rich and refreshing. For an added twist, consider incorporating a hint of amaretto or rum into the coffee mixture. Top it off with a generous dusting of cocoa powder and a few chocolate shavings. This dessert is perfect for any occasion and will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

Why trust this Loaf Pan Lasagna Recipe:

This loaf pan lasagna recipe is a must-try for its rich, hearty flavors and ease of preparation. The use of italian chicken sausages adds a unique twist, while the combination of ricotta cheese, parmesan, and mozzarella ensures a creamy, cheesy delight. The homemade tomato sauce with garlic and oregano brings a fresh, robust taste. Perfectly portioned for smaller gatherings, this dish is both convenient and delicious. Trust this recipe for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.

Have you tried this unique twist on a classic lasagna recipe? Let us know your thoughts and experiences with loaf pan lasagnas in the Recipe Sharing section!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! You can use pork, beef, or even vegetarian sausage if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Do I have to use no-boil lasagna noodles?

No, you can use regular lasagna noodles, but you'll need to cook them according to the package instructions before assembling the lasagna.

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

You can substitute cottage cheese or even a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream if you prefer.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.