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Lesson #22 - Mini Lasagna Squares

Jameson always had a sweet tooth which is reflected in what he chooses each week. Today he decided that he was going to make us a family dinner. We looked for a simple recipe and simplified it even more. At our house there is a small square pan that was perfect for mini lasagnas.

Serve with garlic bread and salad for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 10 mins

Total Time:  30-40 mins

Servings: 12 mini squares

Ingredients:

  • Half box of lasagna noodles

  • 8 oz of ricotta cheese

  • 1 egg

  • 8 oz bag of mozzarella cheese

  • 8 oz of marinara of your choice

PREHEAT OVEN TO 375 DEGREES


STEP ONE:

Bring the water to a boil. Place the noodles in slowly, making sure they don’t splash. Use a spoon to push them down into the pot.

STEP TWO:

While the noodles cook, combine the ricotta cheese with the egg. Stir until smooth. Of course, Jameson tastes throughout every lesson.

*Full disclosure there is raw egg product in this step so be mindful and taste at your own risk.

STEP THREE:

Remove the noodles from the water and let cool. Once cooled, cut them into squares. The parent may want to cut the first one as a measuring tool, then let the kids do the rest. During the lesson we reviewed the proper use of knife skills. Always pay attention and keep your eyes on what you are cutting.

*Please use your judgement re your individual child’s skill level with a knife. Jameson has been cooking for over a year and is comfortable in the kitchen.

**Jameson thought it was super weird that you could not see my head and wanted me to get into the screen!

During the boiling process, two noodles stuck together and we spent time feeling the difference. One was hard and he wasn’t able to cut it.

STEP FOUR:

Using your pre-greased baking pan, spoon your first layer of sauce into each square making sure to cover the bottom.

STEP FIVE:

Put down a layer of noodles. Don't worry if it over flows a little bit.

STEP SIX:

Keep layering with ricotta cheese, mozzarella then red sauce.

STEP SEVEN:

Complete one last layer - noodle, ricotta cheese, mozzarella and red sauce. This is your last layer so make sure to spread the red sauce all over.

STEP EIGHT:

The final layer is delicious mozzarella cheese! We both agreed it is the best layer. Make sure to cover it with lots of cheese.

*Try not to get caught eating it all the leftover cheese. We love cheese so much in this house that even his brother got busted!

STEP NINE:

Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until bubbling on the top. Let it cool then serve it up.

Or dive in and eat it like Guy Fieri on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

THANKS FOR COOKING WITH US!