I would definitely cook it first, then freeze it. It should be thawed in the fridge before heating again in the oven or microwave. I like the idea of cutting it up into individual portions before freezing. That way, you can pull out one or two pieces for a dinner. If it’s for a friend, as a gift, you can leave it in one big casserole pan. You can get those big foil ones at the dollar store. Just make sure to let your friends know that they can’t put those in the microwave. I know, sometimes you gotta tell people stuff, else they don’t know.
Can you make one vegetarian for me? I would add sauteed mushrooms, and maybe some fake Italian sausage.
I just made a lasagna-like casserole, but instead of noodles, I used cauliflower florets. Instead of marinara sauce I used Dave’s Gourmet Butternut Squash Pasta Sauce. I used both ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese. Omg! It was an experiment, but it was one of the best things I’ve ever eaten.