Stouffer's Party Lasagna: 9X13 Pan Fit?

Stouffer's Lasagna is a popular frozen meal that has been a household favourite for decades. The party size version is perfect for feeding a crowd, but cooking it can be a daunting task. One of the most important steps is selecting a suitable baking dish. A 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish is ideal for this purpose, as it can comfortably fit the entire lasagna without overcrowding.

Stouffer's Lasagna Party Size Cooking Instructions

Oven Preparation:

The first step to cooking Stouffer's Lasagna in party size is preheating your oven. Check the packaging for the recommended temperature, which is typically around 375°F (190°C). This will ensure even cooking and prevent any potential food safety issues.

Unwrap the Lasagna:

Carefully remove the plastic wrap from the Stouffer's Lasagna party size container. Be sure to read the instructions on the packaging as some varieties may require different cooking methods.

Select a Suitable Baking Dish:

Choosing the right baking dish is crucial. You’ll need a large dish that can comfortably fit the entire lasagna without overcrowding. A 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish is ideal.

Place the Lasagna in the Baking Dish:

Gently transfer the lasagna from its container into the prepared baking dish. If desired, you can break the lasagna into smaller pieces first to make serving easier.

Cover the Baking Dish:

Cover the baking dish with aluminium foil or a tight-fitting lid. This will trap steam and prevent the top of the lasagna from drying out.

Bake According to Package Instructions:

Follow the instructions on the packaging for the recommended cooking time. This will vary depending on the type of lasagna you’re cooking, so be sure to check the package carefully. For example, Stouffer's Frozen 5 Cheese Lasagna needs to be cooked for 20 minutes without the lid, and then for 1 hour and 35 minutes with the lid on.

Remove the Cover and Continue Cooking:

After the recommended cooking time has passed, remove the cover and continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will allow the top of the lasagna to brown and create a delicious crispy layer.

Let it Rest Before Serving:

Once fully cooked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavours to meld and make it easier to cut and serve.

Storing and Reheating:

Leftover lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the lasagna in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminium foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also freeze leftover lasagna for up to 2 months.

Stouffer's Party Size Lasagna: Customer Reviews

Review 1:

Stouffer's Party Size Lasagna is a convenient and delicious option for feeding a large group. With its rich flavours, perfect layers, and easy-to-follow cooking instructions, it has become a household favourite for many. The lasagna is made with high-quality ingredients like freshly made pasta, real mozzarella cheese, and vine-ripened tomatoes, resulting in a homemade taste that's hard to beat.

Review 2:

The cooking process is straightforward, but it's important to pay attention to timing, temperature, and technique. Preheating the oven, selecting a suitable baking dish (9x13 inches is ideal), and covering the dish during cooking are crucial steps to ensure a perfectly cooked lasagna. It's also important to note that the lasagna should be thawed completely before cooking and baked for the full recommended time to avoid sogginess.

Review 3:

Stouffer's Party Size Lasagna is a fantastic option for busy weeknights, unexpected guests, or when you simply don't feel like cooking an elaborate meal. The convenience of this frozen meal is unmatched, and the taste and quality are impressive. It's a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.

Review 4:

While the cooking instructions are generally clear and easy to follow, it's important to keep an eye on the lasagna as ovens may vary. Adjusting the cooking time based on your oven's performance is crucial to achieving the perfect result. Additionally, letting the lasagna rest for about 10-15 minutes after cooking allows the cheese to set, making it easier to cut and serve.

Review 5:

Stouffer's Party Size Lasagna has received positive reviews, with an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars on Target.com. Many customers appreciate the generous serving size, convenience, and tasty, homemade flavour. It's a great option for those seeking a hearty and satisfying meal, and it pairs well with a side salad or bread.

Stouffer's Party Size Lasagna: Nutritional Information

Stouffer's Party Size Lasagna is available in two varieties: Meat Lasagna and Five Cheese Lasagna. Here is the nutritional information for each:

Stouffer's Party Size Meat Lasagna

Stouffer's Party Size Meat Lasagna is a good source of protein, with 17 grams per serving. Each package contains about 12 servings. The nutritional information per serving is as follows:

• Calories: 270
• Total Carbohydrates: 29g (including 1g of added sugars)
• Sodium: 810mg
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 16g
• Calcium: 20% DV

The ingredients are:

• Water
• Tomato Puree (Water, Tomato Paste)
• Cooked Beef
• Semolina Wheat Flour
• Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese (Cultured Part-Skim Milk, Salt, Enzymes)
• Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese and Modified Cornstarch (Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese [Cultured Milk, Salt, Enzymes], Modified Cornstarch, Skim Milk, Flavors)
• Dry Curd Cottage Cheese (Cultured Skim Milk, Enzymes)
• 2% or less of Modified Cornstarch, Salt, Soy Sauce (Water, Soybeans, Wheat, Salt), Wheat Flour, Dried Onions, Sugar, Parmesan Cheese (Cultured Milk, Salt, Enzymes), Spices, Garlic Powder

Stouffer's Party Size Five Cheese Lasagna

Stouffer's Party Size Five Cheese Lasagna is also a good source of protein, with 11 grams per serving. Each package contains about 11 servings. The nutritional information per serving is not available, but the ingredients are:

• Cooked Pasta (Water, Semolina Wheat Flour)
• Tomato Puree (Water, Tomato Paste)
• Whole Milk Ricotta Cheese (Whey, Milk, Cream, Vinegar, Carrageenan, Xanthan Gum)
• Tomatoes
• Water
• Low-Moisture Part-Skim Mozzarella Cheese (Cultured Part-Skim Milk, Salt, Enzymes)
• Tomato Juice
• Onions
• Wheat Flour
• 2% or less of Romano Cheese made from Cow's Milk (Cultured Milk, Salt, Enzymes), Soybean Oil, Modified Cornstarch, Parmesan Cheese (Cultured Milk, Salt, Enzymes), Sugar, Salt, Asiago Cheese (Cultured Milk, Salt, Enzymes), Spices, Garlic, Potassium Salt, Dried Garlic, Yeast, Onion Powder, Citric Acid, Calcium Chloride

Stouffer's Party Size Lasagna: Storage and Safety Information

Stouffer's Party Size Lasagna is a convenient and delicious option for feeding a crowd. It is made with high-quality ingredients and offers a variety of flavors to choose from. Here are some important storage and safety instructions to follow when preparing this dish:

Storage:

• Keep the lasagna frozen until you are ready to cook it.
• Stouffer's Party Size Lasagna should be stored in the freezer and can be kept frozen until the expiration date marked on the package.
• Do not thaw the lasagna at room temperature. If you need to thaw it, place it in the refrigerator (40°F) for no more than 48 hours before cooking.
• Once the lasagna has been thawed, do not refreeze it.

Safety Information:

• Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature, typically around 375°F (190°C) for a conventional oven, or 400°F as instructed on the packaging.
• Carefully remove the plastic wrap from the Stouffer’s Lasagna party size container.
• Choose a suitable baking dish, preferably a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) dish, to ensure even cooking.
• Follow the package instructions for cooking time, which is typically around 1 hour and 45 minutes for a conventional oven.
• Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the lasagna reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
• Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld and to make it easier to serve.
• Caution: The product will be hot! Be careful when removing it from the oven and handling it.

By following these storage and safety instructions, you can ensure that your Stouffer's Party Size Lasagna is cooked properly and safely, resulting in a delicious and enjoyable meal for you and your guests.

Stouffer's Party Size Lasagna: Serving Suggestions

Stouffer's Party Size Lasagna is a convenient and delicious option when you're feeding a crowd. This Italian classic is sure to be a hit with your guests, offering generous servings and a homemade taste. Here are some essential tips and tricks for serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Oven Preparation and Baking:

First things first, preheating your oven is crucial. For Stouffer's Party Size Lasagna, the recommended temperature is typically around 375°F (190°C). However, always check the packaging instructions as temperatures may vary slightly. Once your oven is preheated, carefully remove the plastic wrap from the container.

Baking Dish Selection:

Choosing the right baking dish is vital for achieving lasagna perfection. Opt for a large dish that comfortably accommodates the entire lasagna without overcrowding. A 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish is the ideal size for this purpose. Gently transfer the lasagna from its container into the prepared baking dish.

Baking Instructions:

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil or a tight-fitting lid to trap steam and prevent the lasagna from drying out. Now, place the baking dish in the oven and follow the package instructions for the recommended cooking time. Each variety of lasagna may have slightly different cooking times, so be sure to refer to the package carefully.

Final Touches:

After the initial cooking time, remove the cover and return the lasagna to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes. This step will give your lasagna a delicious crispy layer on top. Once the cooking is complete, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the flavours to meld together and makes it easier to cut and serve.

Serving Size and Accompaniments:

Stouffer's Party Size Lasagna typically offers about 12 servings per package, making it perfect for gatherings. Consider serving it with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a fresh and well-rounded meal. For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the lasagna before serving.

Frequently asked questions