Gather recently sent me a coupon for a family sized Stouffer entree to try and review. This was a challenge for me, as I am truly not a "convenience cook". As a matter of fact, my entry into the "Most Memorable Meal " contest was a poem regarding my daughter's affection for my own home made lasagna.
When I went to the grocery to buy an entree, I was surprised to find a plethora of selections. I shied away from the products containing rice, as I have never had anything frozen with rice that did not turn out gummy. I passed on the Stuffed Peppers, which I know are pretty tasty, because I wanted to try something new.
On to the pasta selections, of which there were several. Chicken and noodles did not appeal to me, as I detest peas, so I looked at the Lasagna. They had both a "Classic" and "Italiano" selection. I chose the Italiano, as it just sounded more flavorful.
I baked it a few nights ago for Bill and I, and the leftovers have made their way into my lunch bag for the past couple days.
I have to admit, for a prepackaged meal, it was pretty darn good. The Noodles were firm, and not mushy, which is important to me..I have a freaky aversion to soggy breads, and I rather consider pasta a bread( its made with flour, right?).
The meat sauce was tangy, with just the right amount of garlic oregano and red pepper flakes to give it a little kick. The meat actually felt like ground beef to the tongue, not some unidentifiable glob found in some prepared meat sauces.
I was pleasantly surprised to find a healthy layer, at least an inch or so, of pure, creamy ricotta in the center. The top was adorned with mozzarella, but to be honest, there should have been a couple ounces more, for my liking. I resisted the temptation to enhance the dish, as I wanted this review to be honest, and about thev product, not my embellishments.
All in all, it was pretty good. I liked the fact that there were no preservatives, and the packaging is eye catching. I think I might buy another box and keep it in the freezer for those hectic evenings when I am too pooped to cook a fresh meal, but I wouldn't dare try to pass it off to my daughter, the real lasagna afficianado of the family.
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Comments: 40
Sorry but I won't be able to comment back till they get the power lines repaired at home...hope its soon!!!
I will probably remember this review and pick it up just because of your review because if you are like me about preparing a dinner vs. frozen food or fast food, I value your opinion.
Hey Donna H-T, would like to know what no know brand of chicken parm with spaghetti that was?? Sounds good to me. :)
And yes, I made the garlic bread with leftover deli hamburger buns..lol.
I'm glad you've come over to my side. I looove Lasagna. It's fantastic.
Try some more, you know you wanna..
Okay, thanks for the review, have a good day my friend.
I see how wonderful ONE boxed meal can be, however I still feel pretty strongly about cutting my own veggies and simmering my own sauce. I used to tell people that instead of beating my kids, I would beat eggs instead. That's how I became a good cook, and both my kids have survived into adulthood.
This meal was quite delicious, and I loved the way the ricotta cheese would goo out thickly as I cut my serving into bite sized morsels with my fork. My only complaint is that I don't like Fennel; and this has a little bit (not much) in it.
As far as pre-made frozen food meals go, this one gets Ten out of Ten stars from a guy who hates pre-made frozen meals.
It's a Winner!!
On to the store this weekend. Not that hot that I don't want to use the oven.
Have you played their click on matching game? It's quick and fun and good brain exercise.
(This is a comment link for A Stone’s Throw Away. It was written for you’re entertainment. Go enjoy!)
Thanks for the review. We've eaten other foods from this company and we like their consistency.