Lasagna and Cheesy Garlic Bread

I mean really, who doesn't like lasagna and garlic bread.  This lasagna may take some planning because it takes a long time to make the sauce but it actually is very simple to make and assemble so don't be intimidated by the length of time.  Plus, you get lasagna smell in your house all day!  Casey thinks this is the best lasagna he has ever tasted and loves it because it will last for a couple of days.  I was tentative at first because in the past I have put in extra noodles because I like a lot of noodle in my lasagna but you get plenty with only 9!  

1/2 lb ground beef

1/2 lb bulk Italian sausage

1 large onion

3 garlic cloves, minced

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes, undrained

1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

1 1/2 cups water

1 cup salsa (I use mild and have noticed a little more kick when I used medium)

2 tsp sugar

1-2 tsp chili powder (I only use 1)

1 tsp fennel seed (I have never put this in because I don't have any, but you might want to give it a try.  Let me know if you do!)

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

9 lasagna noodles

1 carton (16 oz) cottage cheese

4 cups (1 lb) shredded mozzarella cheese

3/4 grated Parmesan cheese

In a large kettle or dutch oven, cook beef, sausage, and onion until the meat is browned and onion is tender; drain. Stir in the next 10 ingredients.  Simmer, uncovered, for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.  

Meanwhile, cook lasagna noodles according to package directions; drain and rinse in cold water.  In a greased 9x13 baking dish, layer a third of the noodles and meat sauce, half of the cottage cheese, a third of the mozzarella and a third of Parmesan.  Repeat layers.  Top with remaining noodles, meat sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan.  Cover and bake at 350 for 45 minutes; uncover and bake for 20 minutes.  Let stand 20 minutes before cutting.   

Cheesy Garlic Bread

If you like garlic you will love this bread, it's definitely not just buttered bread.  Of course you can dial down on the garlic to fit your family's taste because it does call for a bit.  Very easy!

1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened

4 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 tsp dried oregano

1 loaf french bread, halved lengthwise

3 T grated Parmesan cheese

In a small bowl, combine the butter, garlic and oregano; spread on cut sides of bread.  Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.  Place  on an ungreased cookie sheet.  Broil for 3 minutes or until golden brown.  Slice and serve hot.