Description
This Zucchini Lasagna with Ground Turkey is a nutritious and delicious alternative to traditional lasagna, featuring layers of zucchini, ground turkey, and creamy ricotta cheese. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep!
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly under cold water.
- Slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin strips, about 1/8 inch thick, using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife.
- Lay the zucchini strips on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
- Add ground turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain excess fat if necessary, then stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the ingredients starting with a thin layer of turkey mixture at the bottom.
- Place a layer of zucchini strips over the turkey mixture, slightly overlapping.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the zucchini layer.
- Sprinkle a third of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta layer.
- Repeat the layering process: turkey mixture, zucchini strips, remaining ricotta mixture, and another third of mozzarella cheese.
- Finish with a final layer of zucchini strips, remaining turkey mixture, and top with remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow layers to set.
- Slice into squares and serve warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
- Pair with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Allowing the zucchini to sit with salt helps prevent the lasagna from becoming watery.
- Feel free to customize the herbs and spices to your taste.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes