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Halloween-Themed Spooky Lasagna

This playful lasagna features layered noodles, seasoned ground beef, and creamy cheeses, all assembled with fun, spooky design elements like carved cheese faces or green accents. The dish is baked until bubbling and golden, resulting in a hearty, cheesy casserole with a festive twist that’s perfect for Halloween celebrations.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces lasagna noodles preferably no-boil or pre-cooked
  • 1 pound ground beef or substitute with lentils or mushrooms for veggie version
  • 24 ounces tomato sauce smoky or slow-cooked preferred
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese can substitute with Greek yogurt for tang
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese for gooey meltiness
  • 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese for added saltiness and flavor
  • 1 large egg acts as a binder in the ricotta layer
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley brightens the cheese layer
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon adds warmth and depth
  • to taste salt and pepper season to preference

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes, until they turn translucent and smell inviting.
  3. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Stir in tomato sauce and season with salt, pepper, and cinnamon. Let simmer on low for 10 minutes until thickened and flavorful.
  5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese with a beaten egg, chopped parsley, and a splash of milk or water to make it creamy and spreadable.
  6. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce at the bottom of your baking dish.
  7. Layer cooked noodles over the sauce, followed by a spread of ricotta mixture, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  8. Repeat the layers—meat sauce, noodles, ricotta, cheeses—until the dish is filled, ending with a generous cheese layer on top.
  9. Cover the assembled lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes until bubbly and cheese is melted. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown on top.
  10. Let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and prevents soggy slices.
  11. Decorate with fun Halloween touches, such as carved cheese faces or green herbs, to add a spooky vibe before serving.

Notes

For extra fun, carve faces or spooky shapes into the cheese layer before baking. Use a sharp knife and take your time for detailed designs. Resting the lasagna before slicing ensures cleaner cuts and better presentation.