Description
This Zucchini Lasagna with Ground Turkey is a healthy, low-carb twist on a classic Italian favorite. Made with fresh zucchini slices instead of pasta, lean ground turkey, rich marinara sauce, and creamy cheese layers, it’s a high-protein, gluten-free dinner perfect for meal prep or family nights.
Ingredients
4 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 1/8-inch strips
1 lb (450g) lean ground turkey
1 cup (240ml) low-carb marinara sauce
15 oz (425g) ricotta cheese
2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice zucchini lengthwise into thin strips. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10–15 minutes to release moisture. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks (about 6–8 minutes).
4. Add minced garlic, half of the basil and oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Pour in marinara sauce, stir well, and let simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and remaining herbs. Mix until smooth.
7. Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Layer zucchini slices over the sauce, slightly overlapping.
9. Add a layer of cheese mixture, then meat sauce. Repeat layers two more times.
10. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
11. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
12. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
13. Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For best results, always remove excess moisture from zucchini to prevent watery lasagna.
Use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella for a lighter version.
You can substitute ground chicken for turkey if desired.
This recipe is great for meal prep and reheats well.
Letting the lasagna rest before slicing helps maintain clean layers.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Healthy Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired