This Bison Lasagna is a hearty twist on the classic dish! Made with layers of tender bison meat, cheesy goodness, and delicious pasta, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Cooking with bison gives it a unique flavor that’s leaner than beef. I love how this lasagna becomes a family favorite; it’s so comforting and perfect for gatherings. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Bison: It offers a rich flavor and is leaner than beef. If bison isn’t available, ground turkey or lean beef can be good substitutes, although they will alter the taste slightly.
Cheeses: Ricotta provides creaminess while mozzarella gives that gooey texture. If you’re dairy-free, consider using tofu blended with nutritional yeast and a bit of lemon juice as a ricotta replacement.
Lasagna Noodles: Regular or no-boil noodles work great. If you want a gluten-free option, use zucchini slices or gluten-free lasagna sheets instead.
Canned Tomatoes: I prefer crushed tomatoes for their smooth texture. Diced tomatoes can also work, and if you want a little extra flavor, look for fire-roasted canned tomatoes!
How Do I Make Great Layered Lasagna?
Layering properly creates the appealing texture you want in lasagna. Follow these steps for a beautifully stacked dish:
- Start with a thin layer of sauce at the bottom. This prevents sticking.
- Place noodles without overlapping to ensure even baking.
- Spread ricotta mix evenly to avoid clumps, and sprinkle cheese generously on top of each layer.
- Finish with extra sauce and cheese on top so it gets nice and bubbly.
Remember to let the lasagna rest after baking. This way, the layers set up nicely, making slicing much easier! Enjoy your delicious creation!
Delicious Bison Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground bison
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 9 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This scrumptious Bison Lasagna will take approximately 20 minutes for preparation and 40-45 minutes of cooking time. All in all, you’ll spend about 1 hour, which includes the resting period before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s hot and ready when your lasagna is assembled!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it until it becomes soft, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. This will add amazing flavor!
3. Brown the Bison:
Now, add the ground bison to your skillet. Use a spoon to break it up, cooking until it is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Make the Sauce:
Stir in your crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and some salt and pepper. Let this simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes. This allows those flavors to blend beautifully!
5. Prepare the Noodles:
If you’re using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
6. Mix the Ricotta:
In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with the egg until it’s smooth. This will help bind the layer together!
7. Assemble the Lasagna:
Spread a thin layer of your delicious meat sauce at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Next, place 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture on top, followed by more meat sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
8. Bake:
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is nice and bubbly and golden brown.
9. Rest and Serve:
Once done, let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing it. This helps keep the layers intact when you serve them. Garnish with some fresh parsley, and if you like, serve with a side salad and bread for a complete meal!
Enjoy this rich and flavorful Bison Lasagna that blends the lean goodness of bison with creamy cheese layers, perfect for a comforting meal!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Bison?
Absolutely! If bison is not available, you can use ground beef as a substitute. Just remember that ground beef has a higher fat content, so you might want to drain any excess fat after browning it.
Can I Prepare This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the lasagna ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge!
How Should I Store Leftover Bison Lasagna?
Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions as needed.
Can I Freeze Bison Lasagna?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled lasagna before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.