For the Meat Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef (or half beef, half Italian sausage)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

For the Cottage Cheese Layer

• 2 cups cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Lasagna

• 9–12 lasagna noodles (regular or oven-ready)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Extra Parmesan cheese for topping
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)