If you love lasagna but want something a little more fun, portable, and perfect for parties or family dinners, this Lasagna Cupcake Muffins Recipe is an absolute game changer. Combining the classic layers of rich Italian sausage, creamy cottage cheese, tangy spaghetti sauce, and melty mozzarella, all wrapped up in crispy wonton wrappers, these bite-sized delights are as delicious as they are adorable. They bake up golden and hold their shape beautifully, making mealtime exciting and mess-free. Trust me, once you try this recipe, lasagna will never look the same again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients turn a beloved classic into a playful, handheld treat. Each one plays a vital role, from the creamy cottage cheese adding tenderness to the sausage-packed sauce bringing bold flavor, and the wonton wrappers delivering a crispy structure full of promise.
- 1½ cups cottage cheese: Adds a creamy, mild layer that balances the savory sausage perfectly.
- 1 large egg: Binds the cottage cheese mixture, providing texture and richness.
- 2 tsp dried parsley: Brings a touch of fresh, herby brightness.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed): The star protein with plenty of flavor, seasoning, and meaty heartiness.
- 1 (26-oz) jar spaghetti sauce: A tangy tomato base that infuses every bite with classic Italian warmth.
- 2½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy goodness.
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty pop to enhance layers.
- 36 wonton wrappers: The crispy, golden “shell” that holds all those luscious layers together.
How to Make Lasagna Cupcake Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Pan
Preheat your oven to 375ºF and generously spray a muffin pan with cooking spray. This will ensure your lasagna cupcakes come out easily without sticking, keeping those crispy edges intact and golden brown.
Step 2: Mix the Cottage Cheese Filling
In a bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, and dried parsley. This mixture will add a luscious, creamy layer that cuts through the richness of the sausage and cheese, creating a perfect balance in each cupcake.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage and Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until it is no longer pink and nicely crumbled. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the jar of spaghetti sauce. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors together beautifully before removing it from the heat.
Step 4: Layer the Lasagna Cupcakes
Place one wonton wrapper into each muffin tin cup as your crispy base. Add a tablespoon of the meat sauce over the wrapper, then top with a second wonton wrapper. Follow with a spoonful of your cottage cheese mixture, a tablespoon of shredded mozzarella, another spoonful of meat sauce, and about a teaspoon of parmesan cheese.
Step 5: Build the Final Layers
Repeat the layering by placing a third wonton wrapper, more cottage cheese, mozzarella, meat sauce, and parmesan cheese on top. Finish each cupcake by sprinkling the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the top—the more cheese, the better!
Step 6: Bake and Serve
Bake the cupcakes in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes until they are bubbly and golden on top. Once out of the oven, let them rest for 5 minutes to set up. Carefully run a knife around the edges before removing them from the pan. Serve warm with the leftover meat sauce for dipping or drizzling. Pure comfort and delight in every bite.
How to Serve Lasagna Cupcake Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes really elevate these lasagna cupcakes. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. A light dusting of extra parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds sophistication and richness that will impress any guest.
Side Dishes
Complement your lasagna cupcakes with simple, fresh sides like a crisp green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette or roasted vegetables to keep the meal balanced. For something indulgent, garlic breadsticks or cheesy bread pairs like a dream and amplifies the Italian vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
These cupcakes are versatile and can be presented in so many fun ways. Line them up on a platter for a party or serve them individually in mini cupcake liners for a festive touch. Pair them with dipping bowls filled with warm marinara sauce or creamy ranch for even more flavor options. They’re perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even game day celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place the lasagna cupcake muffins in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. They hold their flavor and texture well, making them just as enjoyable the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze these cupcakes for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the cupcakes in a 350ºF oven for about 10-15 minutes or microwave them for 1-2 minutes until hot and melty. They reheat beautifully, retaining their crispy edges and cheesy, saucy goodness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cottage cheese?
Absolutely! Ricotta cheese is a popular substitute that will provide a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making it a perfect swap in this recipe.
Are wonton wrappers necessary? Can I use pasta sheets instead?
Wonton wrappers give a crisp, golden crunch that traditional pasta sheets can’t quite replicate. However, if you prefer, you can use cooked lasagna noodles, but the texture will be softer and less crispy.
Can I make these lasagna cupcake muffins vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a plant-based meat alternative. The layers and flavors will still be incredible.
How do I prevent the wonton wrappers from sticking?
Make sure to spray the muffin pan well with cooking spray and handle the wonton wrappers gently. Also, layering the meat sauce and cheese helps keep everything moist and less prone to sticking.
What’s the best way to serve these to kids?
Kids adore the fun cupcake shape. Serve them with a side of their favorite veggies or a simple dipping sauce like marinara or ketchup. The mini portions are perfect for little hands and appetites.
Final Thoughts
The Lasagna Cupcake Muffins Recipe is a deliciously creative twist on a beloved classic that brings so much joy every time it hits the table. Whether it’s for a fun family dinner, a potluck, or a party snack, these cupcakes are sure to be the star of the show. Dive in, enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite, and watch your loved ones fall in love with Italian food all over again in the most delightful way!
Print
Lasagna Cupcake Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
These Lasagna Cupcakes are a fun and convenient twist on classic lasagna, featuring layers of Italian sausage, cheese, and sauce nestled within crispy wonton wrappers. Perfect for parties or a family dinner, they bake to golden perfection in just 35 minutes, offering individual servings packed with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 1½ cups cottage cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp dried parsley
Meat Sauce
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 (26-oz) jar spaghetti sauce
Cheeses & Wrappers
- 2½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 36 wonton wrappers
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC) and spray a muffin pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set the pan aside for assembly.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, and dried parsley. Mix well until evenly blended and set aside for later layering.
- Cook Sausage and Make Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until it is no longer pink and is crumbled. Drain off any excess fat. Stir in the spaghetti sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors. Remove from heat.
- Assemble Base Layers: Place a single wonton wrapper into each muffin cup. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the meat sauce on top of each wrapper, then place a second wonton wrapper over the sauce to create the first layered base.
- Layer Cheese and Sauce: Add a spoonful of the cottage cheese mixture, followed by 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese, another spoonful of meat sauce, and sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of parmesan cheese over each cupcake.
- Repeat Layers and Top: Place another wonton wrapper over the current layers. Repeat the layering process with cottage cheese, mozzarella, meat sauce, and parmesan cheese. Finish by topping each cupcake with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese. Note that you will have leftover meat sauce to serve alongside.
- Bake: Bake the assembled lasagna cupcakes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the wonton wrappers are golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the cupcakes to rest for 5 minutes after baking. Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cupcakes and carefully remove them from the muffin pan. Serve warm, accompanied by the leftover meat sauce for dipping or extra flavor.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute Italian sausage with a plant-based alternative or mushrooms.
- Cottage cheese can be replaced with ricotta cheese for a creamier texture.
- Use gluten-free wonton wrappers if needed to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- These cupcakes can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Leftover meat sauce can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
