Lasagna Casserole

I know what it's like to be needing some extra help from family or friends, for instance, when I have a new baby, or am sick or hurt. Friends, neighbors, and family always offer extra help by bringing dinner to your family. It's something I love to be able to do for those in need as well.

Today's recipe is one of my go-to recipes for when a family needs a meal. It's quick, easy, cheap, and everyone likes it.

Here's what you'll need:

1 lb. ground beef seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chopped, dried onion flakes

1 (12 oz.) pkg. pasta (corkscrew or small shells or 3 different shaped pastas work really well and kids think they're fun to eat)

2 (26.5 oz.) containers spaghetti sauce

1 (16 oz.) carton cottage cheese

1 egg, slightly beaten

2 C. shredded Mozzarella cheese

1 C. sliced, fresh mushrooms (opt.)

Cook pasta according to instructions. Cook beef, with seasonings and mushrooms (if desired), in a large skillet over medium heat until cooked through. Drain pasta. In a large bowl, combine the spaghetti sauce, cottage cheese, egg, and half of the cheese. Add the cooked hamburger and pasta. Pour into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining cheese and bake another 5 minutes.