Easy Lasagna Cups
These Easy Lasagna Cups deliver the best of lasagna in a bite-sized form. Each cup features a crispy edge, rich meat sauce, and a cheesy filling that’s sure to delight anyone who loves Italian flavors.
Made with jumbo pasta shells turned inside out, these little appetizers are packed with layers of flavor. From the seasoned beef and marinara sauce to the creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella, every bite is a savory treat.
Perfect for gatherings or as a fun weeknight dinner, these lasagna cups are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Serve them up as an appetizer or side dish and watch them disappear quickly!
Easy Lasagna Cups Ingredients
The star of these lasagna cups is the lean ground beef, which brings a savory richness that blends perfectly with the tangy marinara sauce. The beef and sauce form the heart of the filling, offering a flavorful base.
Inside-out jumbo pasta shells add a fun twist, providing the perfect crispy edges and a satisfying bite. The ricotta cheese adds creaminess, while the mozzarella melts into gooey perfection, binding everything together.
A sprinkle of Parmesan enhances the savory depth, and Italian seasoning ties it all together with its aromatic blend of herbs.
Easy Lasagna Cups: Recipe Tips
1. Pre-cook the Pasta Properly
To achieve the perfect texture for your lasagna cups, be sure to cook the jumbo pasta shells until they are al dente. This ensures they hold their shape when turned inside out and don’t become too soft or soggy during baking. After cooking, rinse the shells with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent overcooking as they bake in the muffin pan.
2. Customize the Meat Sauce
Feel free to adjust the meat sauce to suit your preferences. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a teaspoon of sugar to balance the acidity of the marinara sauce. You can also swap the ground beef for ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor profile, or add some chopped mushrooms for an earthy touch.
3. Layer the Cheese for Maximum Meltdown
For the ultimate cheesy experience, layer the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan in each shell. The ricotta gives a creamy base, while mozzarella ensures gooey, stretchy cheese. A final sprinkle of Parmesan on top not only adds flavor but also creates a slightly crisp, golden finish as the cups bake.
What to Serve with Easy Lasagna Cups
1. Crisp Green Salad
A fresh, crunchy green salad complements the richness of the lasagna cups perfectly. Try a mix of arugula, spinach, and romaine, dressed lightly with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of lemon. The acidity from the dressing cuts through the cheese and beef, balancing the richness of the appetizer.
2. Garlic Bread
For a classic touch, serve these lasagna cups with crispy, buttery garlic bread. The garlic-infused butter and slightly toasted bread are perfect for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce, and the warm, comforting flavors pair well with the savory cups.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant provide a colorful and healthy side dish. The smoky flavor from roasting enhances the savory profile of the lasagna cups, while the slight char adds a depth of flavor that complements the dish’s richness.
FAQ
1. Can I use gluten-free pasta shells?
Yes, gluten-free pasta shells can be used as a substitute for regular pasta. Just ensure you follow the cooking instructions on the gluten-free pasta package, as cooking times may vary.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the lasagna cups up to the baking stage and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply place them in the preheated oven, adding a few extra minutes if necessary.
3. Can I freeze these lasagna cups?
Yes, these lasagna cups freeze well. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them at 375°F until heated through and slightly crispy around the edges.
4. How do I prevent the pasta shells from breaking?
Turning the pasta shells inside out helps prevent them from breaking, as it ensures the outer layer of the pasta, which is sturdier, faces the muffin pan. Also, handle the pasta gently after cooking, as over-cooking can make them more prone to breaking.
Easy Lasagna Cups
Ingredients
- Jumbo pasta shells
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 1 24 ounce jar prepared marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese divided
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 teaspoons kosher salt divided
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley optional
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a mini muffin tin.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat.
- In a deep skillet, heat the ground beef over medium-high heat. Cook and crumble the meat until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat, then add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the marinara sauce, 1 teaspoon of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Allow the mixture to simmer, reduce the heat, and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the remaining 3 teaspoons of salt and pasta shells to the boiling water. Cook the pasta for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender. Drain the shells and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain well.
- Carefully invert the pasta shells and arrange 24 shells in the prepared muffin tin. Reserve any broken or extra shells for future use.
- Fill each shell with approximately 2 teaspoons of ricotta cheese, followed by a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Top with a tablespoon of the prepared meat sauce, then sprinkle evenly with mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan.
- Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for around 15 minutes, or until the shells are golden around the edges and the cheese is bubbly. Let the cups cool for 10 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with finely chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
