Creamette Lasagna Recipe
Creamette Lasagna Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic with a Delicious Twist!
- Publisher: Lofty Recipes
- Cuisine: Italian - American
- Category: Main dish
- Prep Time:
- Cook Time:
- Servings: 8
- Calories: 450 calories
Creamette Lasagna
About this recipe
Creamette lasagna is a delicious and comforting Italian-American dish that features layers of lasagna noodles, meat sauce, and creamy cheese. It's a classic favorite that brings together the heartiness of a meaty sauce, the smoothness of cheese, and the satisfying texture of pasta.
To make a Creamette lasagna, you start by preparing a flavorful meat sauce. You can use ground beef or Italian sausage as the base, which you cook with diced onions and minced garlic until browned and fragrant.
Then, you add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and a blend of dried herbs like basil and oregano, along with some salt and pepper. This sauce simmers for a while, allowing all the flavors to meld together and develop into a rich and savory concoction.
While the sauce is simmering, you cook the Creamette lasagna noodles separately until they are perfectly al dente. These flat, wide noodles provide a sturdy base for the layers of the lasagna and soak up the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
In a separate bowl, you prepare the creamy cheese mixture. It typically consists of ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and a beaten egg. This mixture adds a luscious, cheesy element to the lasagna and helps hold the layers together.
Now it's time to assemble the lasagna. You start by spreading a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Then, you place a layer of cooked Creamette lasagna noodles on top. On top of the noodles, you spread a layer of the cheese mixture, which adds a smooth and creamy texture.
You repeat these layers, alternating between the meat sauce, noodles, and cheese mixture until you've used up all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top. A sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese on the final layer adds a gooey and melty topping.
The assembled lasagna is then baked in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the flavors have melded together beautifully. Once out of the oven, you let it cool for a few minutes before serving, allowing the layers to set and making it easier to slice into perfect portions.
Creamette lasagna is a versatile dish, and you can add your own twists to it. Some people like to add sliced mushrooms or chopped spinach to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences.
Origin of Creamette Lasagna recipe
The exact origin of the Creamette lasagna recipe is unclear to me, but it is believed to have originated in the United States, particularly within Italian-American communities.
Creamette is a brand of pasta that has been popular in the United States since the early 20th century, and it became a household name for its wide variety of pasta products, including lasagna noodles.
Italian immigrants who settled in America often adapted traditional Italian recipes to suit the ingredients available to them in their new home. Lasagna, a classic Italian dish, was no exception. They incorporated Creamette lasagna noodles into their recipes, creating a unique twist on the traditional dish.
The Creamette brand became synonymous with lasagna, and over the years, the Creamette lasagna recipe has been passed down through generations, becoming a staple in many American households. It has become a beloved comfort food and a popular choice for family gatherings and special occasions.
Today, Creamette lasagna remains a classic Americanized version of the traditional Italian dish, known for its use of Creamette lasagna noodles and a rich meat sauce combined with creamy cheese layers.
While variations of lasagna exist around the world, the Creamette lasagna recipe represents a distinct adaptation that has become a cherished part of Italian-American cuisine.
Why make this recipe?
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of rich meat sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked Creamette lasagna noodles creates a symphony of flavors. The savory meat sauce, seasoned with herbs and aromatic ingredients, adds depth and richness. The creamy cheese mixture brings a smooth and cheesy element that complements the sauce beautifully. Together, these flavors create a mouthwatering experience that will leave you satisfied and wanting more.
- Comforting and Satisfying: Creamette lasagna is the epitome of comfort food. It's a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or any time you're craving a comforting meal. The layers of pasta, meat, and cheese come together to create a satisfying and indulgent experience that will warm your soul.
- Versatility: While this recipe provides a solid foundation, you can also customize it to suit your taste preferences. You can add your favorite vegetables, such as sliced mushrooms or chopped spinach, to the sauce for added flavor and nutritional value. You can also experiment with different herbs or spices to make it your own. This versatility allows you to adapt the recipe and make it uniquely yours.
- Easy to Make: Despite its impressive final presentation, Creamette lasagna is relatively simple to prepare. The recipe provides clear instructions, making it accessible to both beginner and experienced cooks. With a little bit of time and effort, you can create a homemade lasagna that will impress your family and friends.
- Classic and Time-Tested: Creamette lasagna has been enjoyed by generations of families. It has stood the test of time and remains a beloved dish in Italian-American cuisine. By trying this unique Creamette lasagna recipe, you're embracing a classic recipe that has been enjoyed and shared for years, connecting you to a rich culinary tradition.
So, if you're looking for a delicious, comforting, and versatile dish that will impress your taste buds and those around you, give this unique Creamette lasagna recipe a try. It's an opportunity to create a homemade masterpiece that will leave a lasting impression and satisfy your cravings for a hearty and flavorful meal.
What does Creamette Lasagna taste like?
Creamette lasagna offers a delicious and satisfying combination of flavors. The taste can vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used and personal preferences, but here's a general description of the flavors you can expect:
The meat sauce in Creamette lasagna typically has a rich and savory taste. If made with ground beef, it brings a hearty and robust flavor to the dish. Italian sausage can add an additional layer of spiciness and complexity. The sauce is often seasoned with herbs like basil and oregano, which infuse it with a hint of earthiness and a Mediterranean touch. The addition of onions and garlic provides aromatic notes and adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
The Creamette lasagna noodles themselves don't have a strong taste on their own. However, they serve as a sturdy and satisfying foundation for the dish, providing a pleasant texture and soaking up the flavors of the sauce and cheese.
The cheese layer, typically a mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, adds a creamy and cheesy element to the lasagna. The ricotta cheese brings a mild and slightly tangy flavor, while the mozzarella melts beautifully and imparts a gooey and slightly salty taste. The grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty and savory note that enhances the overall richness of the dish.
When combined, the layers of meat sauce, pasta, and cheese blend harmoniously. The meaty sauce infuses the noodles with its flavors, while the cheese adds a creamy and slightly salty contrast. The lasagna as a whole is a comforting and indulgent dish, with each bite delivering a combination of savory, cheesy, and hearty flavors.
The taste of Creamette lasagna can described as comforting, satisfying, and reminiscent of home-cooked Italian-American cuisine. It's a dish that brings together familiar flavors in a harmonious way, making it a beloved comfort food for many.
What would you need for this recipe?
- Creamette Lasagna Noodles: These are flat, wide pasta noodles specifically designed for making lasagna. They are made from durum wheat and provide a sturdy base for the layers of the dish.
- Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: You can choose either ground beef or Italian sausage as the main protein component of the meat sauce. Ground beef offers a hearty and rich flavor, while Italian sausage adds a spicier and more complex taste.
- Onion: Diced onion adds flavor and aroma to the meat sauce. It helps to enhance the overall savory profile of the dish.
- Garlic: Minced garlic brings a pungent and aromatic element to the meat sauce, elevating its flavor.
- Crushed Tomatoes: This canned ingredient forms the base of the meat sauce, providing a smooth and tomatoey texture along with a slightly sweet and tangy taste.
- Tomato Paste: Tomato paste is used to intensify the tomato flavor in the sauce and add thickness and richness.
- Dried Basil and Oregano: These dried herbs contribute to the Italian flavor profile of the dish. Basil adds a slightly sweet and herbal note, while oregano brings a warm and earthy taste.
- Salt and Black Pepper: These common seasonings are used to enhance the overall taste and balance the flavors in the dish.
- Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta cheese is a creamy and slightly tangy cheese that adds a luscious and smooth texture to the lasagna.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: This hard and nutty cheese adds a rich and savory flavor to the cheese mixture and the final dish.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Mozzarella cheese is known for its meltability and mild, slightly salty taste. It provides the classic gooey and cheesy element to the lasagna.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness and brightness to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Egg: A beaten egg is used to bind the cheese mixture together and give it a slightly firmer texture when baked.
- Optional Ingredients: You can also include sliced mushrooms and chopped spinach to add extra flavor and nutritional value to the lasagna.
Equipments
- Baking Dish: A 9x13-inch baking dish is commonly used to assemble and bake the lasagna. It should be oven-safe and have enough depth to accommodate the layers of noodles and sauce. If you don't have a baking dish, you can use a deep casserole dish or even a disposable aluminum foil pan as a substitute.
- Skillet or Saute Pan: A skillet or saute pan is used to cook the ground beef or Italian sausage and sauté the onions and garlic for the meat sauce. If you don't have a skillet, you can use a wide saucepan or a large frying pan as a substitute.
- Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is needed to combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped parsley, and beaten egg for the cheese mixture. If you don't have a mixing bowl, you can use any large bowl or even a clean basin as a substitute.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A wooden spoon or spatula is useful for stirring the meat sauce and ensuring even cooking. It's also handy for spreading the sauce and cheese mixture while layering the lasagna. If you don't have a wooden spoon or spatula, you can use a regular spoon or any heat-resistant utensil for stirring and spreading.
- Pot for Boiling Noodles: A large pot is required for boiling the Creamette lasagna noodles until they are al dente. If you don't have a large pot, you can use any deep pot or saucepan that can comfortably hold the noodles and enough water to cook them.
- Colander: A colander or strainer is used to drain the cooked lasagna noodles after boiling them. If you don't have a colander, you can use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the noodles from the pot.
- Aluminum Foil: Aluminum foil is used to cover the lasagna while baking, preventing excessive browning and ensuring even cooking. If you don't have aluminum foil, you can use a lid or an oven-safe baking sheet to cover the baking dish.
How to make Creamette Lasagna
Indulge in our mouthwatering Creamette lasagna recipe. Layers of pasta, savory meat sauce, and creamy cheese combine for a perfect comfort food dish.
Ingredients
- 12-15 Creamette lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 1 cup spinach leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If desired, add the sliced mushrooms and chopped spinach to the sauce and cook until tender.
- Meanwhile, cook the Creamette lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese (reserving some for topping), chopped parsley, and beaten egg. Mix well until all the ingredients are incorporated.
- To assemble the lasagna, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Place a layer of cooked Creamette lasagna noodles on top. Spread a layer of the cheese mixture over the noodles. Repeat these layers, alternating the meat sauce, noodles, and cheese mixture, until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of meat sauce on top.
- Sprinkle the reserved shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the final layer of meat sauce.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley, if desired.
How do you serve Creamette Lasagna recipe?
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to serve Creamette lasagna:
- Cooling and Resting: Once the Creamette lasagna is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes. This resting time allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Slicing: Using a sharp knife or a spatula, carefully cut through the layers of the lasagna to create individual portions. Start by cutting along one edge of the baking dish and work your way across. A spatula can be helpful to lift and transfer each slice onto a serving plate.
- Garnishing: If desired, you can garnish the lasagna with some fresh parsley or basil leaves for a pop of color and added freshness. Sprinkle them over the top of the slices or around the serving platter.
- Side Dish Options: Creamette lasagna is a substantial and filling dish on its own, but you can complement it with a variety of side dishes. A simple green salad with a light dressing can provide a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette can be served on the side to sop up the delicious sauce.
- Serving: Place a slice or two of the Creamette lasagna on individual plates or a serving platter. You can serve it as a main course for a family meal, or you can present it alongside other dishes in a buffet-style setting. If you're hosting a gathering, consider serving the lasagna family-style, allowing guests to help themselves to slices directly from the baking dish.
- Enjoying: Once the lasagna is served, it's time to dig in and savor each bite. The combination of flavors and textures will delight your taste buds. The creamy cheese, savory meat sauce, and tender noodles create a delectable harmony. Take your time, enjoy the meal, and share the experience with family or friends.
Now that you know how to serve Creamette lasagna, you can confidently share this delicious dish with others and enjoy its comforting flavors together.
Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 317 reviews.
Recipe Tags: Creamette Lasagna, Creamette Lasagna Recipe, Recipe, Top rated
What to serve with?
Creamette lasagna is a substantial and flavorful dish on its own, but if you're looking to round out your meal or offer some complementary flavors, here are a few ideas for side dishes to serve with Creamette lasagna:
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread is a delicious accompaniment to lasagna. Serve slices of crusty bread that have been brushed with garlic-infused butter and toasted until golden brown. It's perfect for sopping up any extra sauce from the lasagna.
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory lasagna. Toss together a variety of crisp lettuce leaves, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite vegetables. Dress it with a light vinaigrette or creamy dressing of your choice.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasting vegetables adds depth and sweetness to their flavors. Consider roasting a medley of colorful vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your preferred herbs, then roast until tender and caramelized.
- Caprese Salad: This classic Italian salad is a delightful combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves. Arrange sliced tomatoes and mozzarella on a platter, alternating with basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil, balsamic glaze, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
- Antipasto Platter: Create a tempting spread of cured meats, cheeses, olives, marinated vegetables, and crusty bread. An antipasto platter offers a variety of flavors and textures that complement the richness of the lasagna.
- Steamed or Roasted Asparagus: Asparagus spears provide a vibrant and nutritious side dish. Steam or roast them until tender-crisp, and then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy and tangy flavors of a Caesar salad pair well with lasagna. Toss crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, grated Parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons for a classic and satisfying salad.
- Sautéed Spinach: Cook fresh spinach in a skillet with garlic and olive oil until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice. It's a simple and nutritious side dish that complements the flavors of the lasagna.
Also, consider your guests' preferences and dietary restrictions when choosing side dishes. These options provide a range of flavors and textures that can enhance your Creamette lasagna meal and create a well-rounded dining experience.
My recommendations and tips
- Follow the Recipe: When making Creamette lasagna, it's important to follow the recipe instructions carefully. Pay attention to measurements, cooking times, and layering techniques to ensure the best results.
- Properly Cook the Noodles: When boiling the Creamette lasagna noodles, cook them until they are al dente, which means they should be tender but still slightly firm. Overcooked noodles can become mushy and may not hold their shape well in the lasagna layers.
- Season the Meat Sauce: Take the time to properly season the meat sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional herbs or spices to suit your preference. This will enhance the overall flavor of the lasagna.
- Let It Rest: Allow the lasagna to cool and rest for about 10-15 minutes after baking. This resting time allows the layers to set and makes it easier to slice and serve without the lasagna falling apart.
- Customize the Ingredients: Feel free to customize the recipe to your taste. You can add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the meat sauce for added flavor and nutritional value. Experiment with different cheese combinations or try adding a layer of sautéed onions or roasted red peppers for variation.
- Don't Overdo the Cheese: While cheese is an essential component of lasagna, be mindful not to use an excessive amount. The cheese should complement the other flavors without overpowering them. Follow the recipe's cheese measurements, or adjust according to your preference.
- Let the Flavors Develop: Creamette lasagna often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. Consider making it ahead of time and refrigerating it overnight before reheating and serving. This allows the flavors to develop further and makes for a delicious leftover meal.
- Serve with Confidence: When it comes to serving the lasagna, be confident in your creation. Whether you're serving it to family, friends, or guests, your effort and love put into making the dish will shine through. Enjoy the process of sharing your homemade Creamette lasagna with others and savor the delicious flavors together.
Potential ingredients substitutes
- Creamette Lasagna Noodles: If you can't find Creamette lasagna noodles, you can substitute them with other brands of lasagna noodles or even oven-ready lasagna noodles. Just follow the package instructions for cooking or layering.
- Ground Beef or Italian Sausage: You can substitute the ground beef or Italian sausage with ground turkey, ground chicken, or vegetarian alternatives like crumbled tofu or textured vegetable protein (TVP). Adjust the seasonings accordingly to ensure a flavorful meat sauce.
- Onion: If you don't have onion or prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute it with shallots or leeks. They provide a similar aromatic quality and can be used in the same quantity as the onion in the recipe.
- Garlic: In place of fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder or granulated garlic. The general rule of thumb is to use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder or 1/2 teaspoon of granulated garlic for every clove of fresh garlic.
- Crushed Tomatoes: If you don't have crushed tomatoes, you can use tomato sauce or tomato puree as a substitute. You may need to adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding a small amount of water or broth if necessary.
- Ricotta Cheese: If you don't have ricotta cheese or prefer an alternative, you can substitute it with cottage cheese or Greek yogurt. These options provide a similar creamy texture and can be used in the same quantity as ricotta cheese.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Grated Pecorino Romano or grated Asiago cheese can be used as substitutes for grated Parmesan cheese. They offer a similar sharp and nutty flavor that complements the lasagna.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: You can substitute shredded mozzarella cheese with other types of shredded cheese like provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses. These alternatives will still melt and provide the desired cheesy texture.
What more?
- Make-Ahead and Freezing: Creamette lasagna is a great dish to make ahead of time. You can assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake it. You can also freeze fully assembled and unbaked lasagna for future use. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.
- Adjusting the Recipe: The recipe for Creamette lasagna can be adapted to suit your preferences. Feel free to add or modify the ingredients according to your taste. You can include additional vegetables, herbs, or spices, or even experiment with different types of meat or cheeses.
- Serving Sizes: The serving size of lasagna can vary depending on the appetites and preferences of those you're serving. The recipe typically yields around 8 to 10 servings, but you can adjust the portion sizes based on your needs. Keep in mind that lasagna is a filling dish, so smaller portions may be appropriate, especially when served with sides.
- Leftovers: Leftover Creamette lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with foil or transfer individual portions to airtight containers. When reheating, you can do so in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave. It's a delicious meal to enjoy as leftovers, and the flavors often deepen and meld together even more.
- Variations: Creamette lasagna is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit different dietary preferences. You can make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables or using meat substitutes. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheeses or even make a white sauce-based lasagna instead of using a tomato-based sauce.
- Serving Suggestions: While Creamette lasagna can be a complete and satisfying meal on its own, you can enhance the dining experience by serving it with complementary dishes. Consider adding a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal and provide additional flavors and textures.
- Enjoy the Process: Cooking and sharing Creamette lasagna can be a fun and enjoyable experience. Take your time in the kitchen, savor the aromas, and enjoy the process of creating a delicious homemade dish. Cooking can be a creative and rewarding activity, so embrace the opportunity to experiment and make the recipe your own.
These additional tips and insights should help you navigate the process of making Creamette lasagna and enhance your overall cooking experience. Enjoy preparing and savoring this comforting and delicious dish!
Final Remark
In conclusion, our Creamette lasagna recipe is a delightful and satisfying dish that will surely impress your family and friends. With its flavorful layers and creamy goodness, it's a timeless classic with a twist. Give it a try and create unforgettable moments around the dinner table. Enjoy the comfort and deliciousness of Creamette lasagna!