There’s something truly magical about a dish that brings everyone together, creating a comforting embrace on a busy weeknight or a festive weekend. For me, Lena, that dish is often a hearty lasagna. I remember one chilly autumn evening, I had a package of delicious chicken sausage in the fridge, yearning to be transformed into something spectacular.
My usual beef lasagna recipe felt a little too heavy for what I craved. Inspiration struck – why not infuse that savory chicken sausage into a classic, layered pasta bake? The result was an instant family favorite, a dish that fills the kitchen with incredible aromas and satisfies every single time.
This Chicken Sausage Lasagna quickly became a staple, proving that familiar comforts can always get a fresh, exciting twist. It’s a meal that feels both special and incredibly approachable, perfect for making memories around the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Sausage Lasagna Recipe
This Chicken Sausage Lasagna isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a culinary hug in a casserole dish. You’ll absolutely adore how straightforward yet incredibly flavorful this recipe is. Forget complicated steps; we streamline the process so you can enjoy more time savoring and less time stressing.
First, the savory chicken sausage adds a unique depth and leaner profile compared to traditional ground meats, making each bite wonderfully satisfying without feeling overly heavy. Then, the creamy ricotta and mozzarella blend creates that irresistible gooey texture everyone craves in a lasagna. Furthermore, our rich tomato sauce, simmered with aromatic herbs, perfectly complements the chicken sausage.
This is a genuinely versatile dish, excellent for feeding a crowd or simply enjoying leftovers throughout the week. You’ll appreciate its comforting nature and how easily it comes together, becoming a cherished part of your weeknight rotation or your next special occasion. Truly, this chicken sausage lasagna recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting this delicious Chicken Sausage Lasagna requires a few fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 large yellow onion, chopped
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1.5 pounds lean ground chicken sausage, casings removed if applicable
* 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
* 15 ounces tomato sauce
* 6 ounces tomato paste
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish
* 1 tablespoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)
* 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* 12-15 lasagna noodles, oven-ready or traditional (if traditional, cook according to package directions)
* 15 ounces ricotta cheese
* 1 large egg
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
* 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
* Pinch of nutmeg
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
If you’re interested in more comforting soup recipes, consider trying the Creamy White Lasagna Soup with Veggies. It’s a delicious alternative that allows for the same comforting flavors in a soup format!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing this delightful Chicken Sausage Lasagna is a rewarding process. Follow these steps for a perfect outcome every time.
1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: First, heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Brown the Sausage: Add the ground chicken sausage to the pot.
Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it is fully browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Now, pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Stir in the fresh parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour, stirring occasionally. This simmering time develops the rich flavors for your chicken sausage lasagna.
4. Make the Ricotta Mixture: While the sauce simmers, prepare the ricotta filling. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup fresh parsley, and a pinch of nutmeg. Season with salt and black pepper.
Mix thoroughly until well combined.
5. Preheat Oven & Prep Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Assemble the Lasagna: Begin assembling your Chicken Sausage Lasagna.
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce (about 1 cup) on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
7. First Noodle Layer: Arrange a single layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce.
If using traditional noodles, ensure they are cooked and drained.
8. Ricotta Layer: Evenly spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
9. Mozzarella & Sauce: Sprinkle about 1.5 cups of mozzarella cheese over the ricotta. Then, ladle another 1.5-2 cups of meat sauce over the mozzarella.
10. Repeat Layers: Place another layer of lasagna noodles. Spread the remaining ricotta mixture, followed by another 1.5 cups of mozzarella and 1.5-2 cups of meat sauce.
11. Final Layer: Add the last layer of lasagna noodles. Cover with the remaining meat sauce and then sprinkle generously with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese and extra Parmesan cheese.
This top layer will get wonderfully golden brown on your chicken sausage lasagna.
12. Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
13. Rest & Serve: Importantly, let the Chicken Sausage Lasagna rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the layers to set and prevents it from falling apart. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving the perfect Chicken Sausage Lasagna involves a few simple tricks. These tips will help you elevate your dish from good to absolutely unforgettable.
First, don’t skimp on simmering time for the sauce. The longer the meat sauce simmers, the more the flavors meld and deepen. This step is crucial for developing that rich, complex taste in your chicken sausage lasagna. A minimum of 30 minutes is good, but 1-2 hours makes it even better.
Properly cook your sausage. Ensure the chicken sausage is thoroughly browned and any excess fat is drained. This prevents your lasagna from becoming greasy and ensures the sausage contributes maximum flavor.
When it comes to noodles, oven-ready lasagna noodles are a fantastic time-saver. If you opt for traditional noodles, cook them al dente, meaning slightly undercooked, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooked noodles can make your Chicken Sausage Lasagna mushy.
Season each layer! Don’t rely solely on the sauce for seasoning. A little salt and pepper in your ricotta mixture makes a huge difference. This builds flavor throughout the entire Chicken Sausage Lasagna.
Don’t forget the egg in your ricotta mixture. The egg acts as a binder, helping the ricotta layer stay together beautifully when sliced. A pinch of nutmeg also adds a subtle, warm depth to the cheese that is surprisingly delicious.
Resting your lasagna is non-negotiable. I know it’s hard to wait, but letting your Chicken Sausage Lasagna rest for 15-20 minutes after baking allows the cheese to set and the layers to firm up. This prevents a watery, falling-apart mess when you cut into it, ensuring perfect, neat slices every time.
Finally, adjust the red pepper flakes to your preference. If you love a spicy kick, add a bit more. If you prefer mild flavors, reduce or omit them. This Chicken Sausage Lasagna is yours to customize!
For more inspiration, check out our creamy Italian sausage rigatoni recipe, which showcases similar flavors in a different pasta dish. This recipe is perfect when you’re looking to mix things up while still enjoying those savory sausage notes.
Storage & Reheating Tips
This Chicken Sausage Lasagna makes excellent leftovers, often tasting even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Proper storage and reheating ensure you can enjoy it for days to come.
Storing Leftovers: Once your Chicken Sausage Lasagna has cooled completely, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer individual slices into airtight containers. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, this chicken sausage lasagna freezes beautifully. You can freeze the entire baked lasagna (cooled and tightly wrapped) or individual portions. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Whole Lasagna: To reheat a whole Chicken Sausage Lasagna from the refrigerator, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent the top from over-browning and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, it will take longer, around 60-90 minutes, often needing to thaw partially first.
Reheating Individual Slices: For individual portions, the microwave is a quick option. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover it loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, or until hot. For a crispier crust, reheat individual slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, covering loosely with foil initially to prevent drying out. Reheating this chicken sausage lasagna correctly preserves its delicious texture and flavor.
What to Serve With This Recipe
A hearty Chicken Sausage Lasagna forms a complete and satisfying meal on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides can truly elevate the dining experience. Here are some of my favorite accompaniments:
* Crisp Green Salad: A fresh, vibrant green salad offers a wonderful contrast to the richness of the lasagna. Think mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette. It’s refreshing and helps balance the meal.
* Garlic Bread or Focaccia: You simply cannot go wrong with warm, crusty bread to sop up any extra sauce. Garlic bread is a classic choice, but a soft focaccia with a hint of rosemary or sea salt also pairs beautifully with this chicken sausage lasagna.
* Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are excellent options.
Their subtle flavors and tender-crisp texture complement the lasagna without overwhelming it. Roasted zucchini or bell peppers also work wonderfully.
* Simple Tomato Salad: If you’re serving this Chicken Sausage Lasagna in the summer, a simple tomato salad with fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze provides a burst of fresh flavor.
* Light Soup: For a truly comforting meal, consider starting with a light vegetable soup or a simple minestrone. This creates a multi-course experience without being too heavy.
To complement your chicken sausage lasagna, consider making our Cozy Crockpot Lasagna Soup. This hearty soup can be a wonderful side, providing warmth and a delightful mix of flavors.
FAQs
Got questions about this delicious Chicken Sausage Lasagna? I’ve got answers!
Can I make this Chicken Sausage Lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! This Chicken Sausage Lasagna is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can assemble the entire lasagna, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
When ready to bake, add about 15-20 minutes to the covered baking time to ensure it heats through properly. You can also freeze an unbaked lasagna for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
What kind of chicken sausage works best for this lasagna?
For this Chicken Sausage Lasagna, I recommend using a mild or sweet Italian ground chicken sausage. If your sausage comes in casings, simply remove them before browning. You can also use a spicy Italian chicken sausage if you enjoy a bit of heat! Lean ground chicken or turkey can be substituted, but you might want to add extra seasoning like fennel seeds to mimic the Italian sausage flavor.
Why does my lasagna get watery?
Several factors can lead to a watery Chicken Sausage Lasagna. One common culprit is not draining enough fat from the cooked chicken sausage. Another is skipping the resting period after baking; the layers need time to set and absorb excess moisture.
Also, using too much moisture in the ricotta (ensure it’s well-drained) or a very thin sauce can contribute to a watery result. Using oven-ready noodles usually helps prevent excess moisture too.
Can I add vegetables to this Chicken Sausage Lasagna?
Yes, definitely! Adding vegetables is a wonderful way to boost flavor and nutrition in your Chicken Sausage Lasagna. Sautéed mushrooms, spinach (ensure you squeeze out all excess water), finely diced bell peppers, or even grated zucchini (also squeeze out moisture) can be mixed into the meat sauce or layered within the lasagna. Just remember to cook any vegetables down before adding them to avoid extra moisture.
How do I prevent the top of my lasagna from burning?
To prevent the top of your Chicken Sausage Lasagna from burning while ensuring it cooks through, always cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil for the initial baking period. This traps heat and steam, allowing the noodles to cook and the flavors to meld without over-browning the cheese.
For the last 20-25 minutes, remove the foil to allow the cheese to bubble and turn golden brown. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with foil again.
Chicken Sausage Lasagna combines the lean protein of chicken sausage with layers of pasta, cheese, and tomato sauce, creating a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. This delicious comfort food has variations that can reflect personal taste and dietary preferences, making it a versatile option for any dinner table; learn more about this popular dish here.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Below is an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of Chicken Sausage Lasagna. Please note these values are approximate and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices.
| Nutrient | Amount (Estimated) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450-500 kcal |
| Protein | 35-40 g |
| Fat | 20-25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10-12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30-35 g |
| Fiber | 4-5 g |
| Sugars | 8-10 g |
| Sodium | 800-900 mg |
Chicken Sausage Lasagna
- Total Time: 80 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Chicken Sausage Lasagna isn't just another pasta dish; it's a culinary hug in a casserole dish. It's straightforward yet incredibly flavorful, incorporating savory chicken sausage, a creamy cheese blend, and a rich tomato sauce simmered with herbs.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon Olive Oil
1 large Yellow Onion, chopped
3 cloves Garlic, minced
1.5 pounds Lean Ground Chicken Sausage, casings removed if applicable
28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes
15 ounces Tomato Sauce
6 ounces Tomato Paste
1 cup Chicken Broth
2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish
1 tablespoon Dried Oregano
1 teaspoon Dried Basil
1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
1 teaspoon Sugar
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste
12–15 Lasagna Noodles, oven-ready or traditional
15 ounces Ricotta Cheese
1 large Egg
1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese, plus more for topping
1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
Pinch of Nutmeg
4 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, divided
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, add onion and cook until softened
- Add garlic and cook for another minute, then add chicken sausage and brow
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and broth. Season and simmer for 30-60 minutes
- Prepare the ricotta mixture in a bowl: mix ricotta, egg, Parmesan, parsley, and nutmeg
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish
- Spread a layer of meat sauce on the bottom of the dish
- Layer noodles over sauce, spread half of the ricotta mixture over noodles
- Sprinkle mozzarella over ricotta, then ladle meat sauce on top
- Repeat the layering process: noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, meat sauce
- Add a final layer of noodles, top with remaining meat sauce and mozzarella
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 20-25 minutes
- Let rest for 15-20 minutes before serving
Notes
Ensure to let the lasagna rest before slicing to maintain its structure.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 60 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg