Name: Lasagna Cupcakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1/3 pound ground beef; 1 cup marinara sauce; 24 wonton wrappers; 1 3/4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided); 3/4 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping); Basil (for garnish, optional)

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Lasagna is a classic dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table, but have you ever considered transforming this beloved recipe into individual servings? Enter Lasagna Cupcakes: a fun, portable, and utterly delicious twist on traditional lasagna. These delightful mini lasagna bites are layered with savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, all nestled within crispy wonton wrappers. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or meal prep, these Lasagna Cupcakes will surely become a favorite in your home.

Why This Lasagna Cupcakes Stands Out

What makes these Lasagna Cupcakes stand out from ordinary lasagna? First and foremost, their unique presentation! Each cupcake offers a personal-sized serving that is not only adorable but also incredibly practical. The wonton wrappers provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy filling. Plus, they cook faster than traditional lasagna, making them a great option for busy weeknights. With layers of flavor and texture packed into every bite, you’ll find that these cupcakes are just as satisfying as their larger counterpart, if not more so.

What You’ll Need

To whip up these delicious Lasagna Cupcakes, gather the following ingredients:

1/3 pound ground beef
1 cup marinara sauce
24 wonton wrappers
1 3/4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
3/4 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
Basil for garnish, optional

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Before you dive into the kitchen, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

Muffin tin – You’ll need a standard muffin tin to bake your cupcakes.
Skillet – For browning the ground beef and mixing the filling.
Mixing bowls – To combine the ricotta, Parmesan, and other ingredients.
Spatula – For layering and serving your cupcakes.
Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.

How to Prepare Lasagna Cupcakes

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create your own Lasagna Cupcakes:

Step 1: Preheat and Cook the Beef

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes, then remove it from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Cupcakes

Lightly grease your muffin tin. Place a wonton wrapper in each muffin cup, pressing it down gently to form a base. Spoon a layer of the beef mixture into each wrapper, followed by a layer of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers, finishing with a wonton wrapper on top.

Step 4: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top of each cupcake and add a little extra Parmesan for good measure. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the wonton wrappers are golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cupcake tin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Carefully use a spatula to lift the cupcakes out of the tin. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm!

What to Use Instead

If you’re looking to switch things up or accommodate dietary preferences, consider these alternatives:

Ground turkey or chicken in place of ground beef for a lighter option.
Vegetarian crumbles for a meatless version.
Store-bought marinara sauce can be substituted with homemade sauce for a fresh taste.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free wonton wrappers as a healthier alternative.
Swap out mozzarella with provolone or a dairy-free cheese for a different flavor profile.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

Don’t overfill the cupcake wrappers. Less is more; you want to maintain the cupcake shape.
Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique twist.
For added flavor, season the ground beef with Italian herbs or garlic powder.
Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

These Lasagna Cupcakes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven until heated through.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why are my cupcakes soggy?

Soggy cupcakes can occur if there’s too much liquid in your marinara sauce. Consider using a thicker sauce or reducing the amount of sauce you use in each layer.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assembly ahead of time, then bake right before serving. Alternatively, you can fully bake them and reheat when ready to eat.

What if I don’t have wonton wrappers?

If you can’t find wonton wrappers, you can use lasagna noodles cut to size or even phyllo dough for a flaky texture.

How do I prevent the wrappers from sticking?

Make sure to grease your muffin tin well and consider using non-stick cooking spray for easy removal after baking.

Final Bite

These Lasagna Cupcakes are a clever and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of lasagna in a fun, bite-sized format. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, they are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. With their customizable layers and easy preparation, you’ll find that they not only taste amazing but are also incredibly versatile. Get ready to share these delightful treats with family and friends, and watch as they become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

The joy of cooking is best enjoyed when you can share your creations with others, and what better way to do it than with these delectable Lasagna Cupcakes? So roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe—you won’t be disappointed!