This year has been an incredible journey for me. I’ve lost 55 pounds and embraced a healthier lifestyle that focuses on high-protein, low-carb meals. Along the way, I’ve discovered ways to keep enjoying my family’s favorite dishes while staying on track with my health goals. One of those beloved recipes is lasagna—a hearty, comforting dish that’s a hit in my household. However, traditional lasagna with layers of pasta and creamy ricotta cheese wasn’t going to fit into my new lifestyle. So, I got creative and developed a high-protein lasagna that’s so delicious, you won’t even miss the pasta or ricotta!
Why High-Protein?
Protein has been a game-changer in my weight loss journey. It keeps me full longer, helps build and maintain muscle, and provides steady energy throughout the day. As a busy parent, I need meals that fuel me and taste amazing, and this lasagna fits the bill perfectly. The secret? Swapping out traditional pasta for egg sheets and using cottage cheese instead of ricotta. These simple changes make the dish low-carb, low-calorie, and packed with protein—a win for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
High-Protein Lasagna: A Delicious Recipe for Your Healthy Lifestyle
The Inspiration Behind the Recipe
When I started my health journey, I didn’t want to sacrifice the meals my family and I love. Lasagna has always been one of our favorites, but I needed a version that aligned with my goals. This recipe was born from a desire to create something satisfying and nutritious that everyone at the table could enjoy. And let me tell you, it was a hit! Even my pickiest eaters were surprised by how much they loved it.
Ingredients:
This high-protein lasagna is made with simple, wholesome ingredients:
2 packages of Egg Sheets: These replace traditional pasta and are surprisingly easy to work with. You can find them in the refrigerated section of many grocery stores or make your own by whisking eggs and cooking them in thin layers like crepes.
2 tubs of 16 oz Cottage Cheese: A protein powerhouse, cottage cheese is a great substitute for ricotta. It’s creamy, delicious, and significantly lower in calories and carbs.
16-20 oz Lean Ground Turkey or Beef: For the protein-packed filling. I highly recommend Amylu Foods Italian-Style Chicken Crumbles. This gives the recipe incredible flavor and has the best macros, but you can sub for regular ground beef or turkey.
2 small/medium Zucchini: I love adding this for the flavor it adds to the High Protein Lasagna while hiding in veggies!
2 jars of 22 oz Marinara Sauce: Look for a low-sugar option to keep the carbs in check. We love Rao's Marinara
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Because every lasagna needs a gooey, cheesy topping.
Seasonings: Garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors.
Directions
Prepare the Egg Sheets: If you’re making them from scratch, whisk a few eggs, pour a thin layer onto a non-stick skillet, and cook until set. Repeat until you have enough sheets to layer your lasagna. If you use the Egg life sheets then you don't need any prep.
Cook the Meat Sauce: In a skillet, brown the onion, and lean ground turkey or beef. I cook about half way then I add in the Zucchini and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes. You want to cook out the water. Add garlic and Italian seasoning, then stir in marinara sauce. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
Mix Cottage cheese sauce: In a bowl add together 2 containers of Cottage cheese (you don't need to blend) Mix with a fork 3 eggs, and Italian seasoning to make the "ricotta cheese mixture"
Assemble the Lasagna in 9 x 13 pan: I spray the pan with a little avocado oil. Start with a layer of meat sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. Add an egg sheet, spread cottage cheese mixture on top, and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of shredded parmesan on top.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve and Enjoy: Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Low-Carb and High-Protein: Perfect for those following a low-carb or high-protein diet.
Family-Approved: It’s so tasty, even traditional lasagna lovers will be impressed.
Easy to Customize: Swap ground turkey for chicken or beef, or add veggies like spinach or zucchini to the layers.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and reheat for quick, nutritious meals throughout the week.
My Family’s Reaction
When I first served this lasagna, I was a little nervous. Would they notice the egg sheets? Would the cottage cheese be a deal-breaker? But to my delight, everyone loved it! My kids even asked for seconds, and my husband couldn’t stop raving about how flavorful it was and one of his favorite foods is Lasagna. Now, this high protein lasagna has become a regular part of our meal rotation.
Tips for Success
Don’t Overthink the Egg Sheets: If making them from scratch seems daunting, pre-made egg wraps are a great alternative.
Season Generously: Cottage cheese is mild, so make sure to season your meat sauce well for maximum flavor.
Let It Rest: Allow the lasagna to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Join Me on This Journey
Sharing this recipe feels like a milestone in my health journey. It’s proof that you don’t have to give up the foods you love to achieve your goals. With a little creativity, you can enjoy delicious, satisfying meals while staying true to your healthy lifestyle.
I’d love to hear from you if you try this High Protein Lasagna! Leave a comment below or tag me on social media with your creations. Here’s to enjoying the foods we love in a way that fuels our bodies and nourishes our souls.
Commenti