Classic Wonton Wrapper Lasagna Bites
This recipe uses a simple meat sauce, but see the variations below for vegetarian and other options.
Yields: About 24 bites
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
· 24 wonton wrappers
· 1/2 lb Italian sausage or ground beef (or a mix), casings removed if using sausage
· 1 cup your favorite marinara or pasta sauce
· 1 cup ricotta cheese
· 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
· 1 large egg
· 1 tsp Italian seasoning
· 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
· Salt and black pepper to taste
· Olive oil or non-stick cooking spray
· Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage or ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Make the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup of the Parmesan cheese, the egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Assemble the Bites:
· Gently press one wonton wrapper into each cup of the prepared muffin tin, letting the corners stick up. It’s okay if they overlap a bit.
· First Layer: Add about 1 teaspoon of the meat sauce to the bottom of each wonton cup.
· Second Layer: Add a dollop (about 1 teaspoon) of the ricotta mixture on top of the meat.
· Third Layer: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, followed by a pinch of the remaining Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the wonton edges are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Cool and Serve: Let the lasagna bites cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before carefully removing them. (A small offset spatula or the tip of a butter knife works well to pop them out). Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm.