fortune mouse fortune mouse
Recipe

Lasagna with Spaghetti Squash

Updated on 5 min read

Quick Description

This Keto Lasagna with Spaghetti Squash is a healthy, low-carb twist on traditional lasagna. It features roasted spaghetti squash strands, ground turkey, ricotta, mozzarella, marinara sauce, and fresh spinach, all baked to perfection under the broiler. It’s a delicious and satisfying meal!

Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 6
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients List

  • 3 to 4 lbs spaghetti squash
  • 1 lb ground turkey
  • 25 oz marinara sauce (no sugar added)
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese
  • 6 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • 2 to 3 cups baby spinach

Instructions

Roast the Spaghetti Squash:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) to roast the spaghetti squash. This high temperature reduces cooking time and helps caramelize the squash while removing excess moisture.
  2. Prepare the Squash:
    • Cut the spaghetti squash into 3–4 equal sections, crosswise through the middle. This will give you longer “spaghetti” strands as the strands run around the middle, from stem to base.
  3. Roast the Squash:
    • Place the squash on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 30–40 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
    • Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool.

Prepare the Ground Turkey:

  1. Cook the Turkey:
    • While the squash cools, heat a saute pan over medium-high heat.
    • Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked through, about 7–10 minutes.
  2. Add Marinara Sauce:
    • Stir in the marinara sauce to the cooked turkey and mix thoroughly. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to combine the flavors.

Assemble the Casserole:

  1. Prepare the Spaghetti Squash:
    • Once the squash is cool enough to handle, use a fork to scrape the strands from the rind. The strands should resemble “spaghetti.”
    • Transfer the squash strands to a greased casserole dish, spreading them evenly over the bottom.
  2. Layer the Lasagna:
    • Spoon the turkey and marinara mixture evenly over the squash strands.
    • Drop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the mixture and top with sliced mozzarella rounds, covering most of the casserole with cheese.

Bake the Casserole:

  1. Bake or Store for Later:
    • At this point, you can either bake the casserole immediately or store it in the fridge to bake later.
    • If baking immediately, preheat the oven to broil.
  2. Broil the Casserole:
    • Place the casserole under the broiler for 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
    • Keep an eye on the casserole to prevent burning.

Add Spinach and Serve:

  1. Add Spinach:
    • Once the casserole is baked, remove it from the oven.
    • Gently tuck baby spinach leaves into the casserole between the cheese layers.
  2. Serve:
    • Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Additional Notes

  • Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day before broiling.
  • Vegetable Substitutes: If you prefer other veggies, you can add zucchini or mushrooms to the meat mixture for added flavor and texture.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free ricotta and dairy-free mozzarella if you prefer a dairy-free version of this dish.

Dietary Info

  • Keto-Friendly
  • Low-Carb
  • Gluten-Free
  • High-Protein
  • Vegetarian Option (without turkey)

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Ground Turkey: You can substitute ground chicken or ground beef for the turkey, depending on your preference.
  • Marinara Sauce: Make sure to use sugar-free marinara sauce to keep this dish low-carb. Alternatively, you can make your own sauce with tomato paste, garlic, olive oil, and Italian herbs.
  • Cheese Substitutes: If you don’t have ricotta, you can substitute with cottage cheese for a similar texture, or use cream cheese for a richer flavor.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Add More Cheese: For extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle some parmesan cheese over the top before broiling.
  • Meatless Option: Omit the turkey and add more vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for a meatless version.
  • Serve with a Salad: Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigerate: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
  • Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.
  • Freeze: This casserole freezes well for up to 1 month. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Carbs: 10 g
  • Net Carbs: 7 g
  • Fiber: 3 g

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different squash?
Yes, you can substitute butternut squash or acorn squash for the spaghetti squash, though the texture will differ.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready to cook, just broil as directed.

Q: How can I make this even more filling?
You can add a layer of cauliflower rice or shredded zucchini for extra bulk without adding too many carbs.

Optional Personal Story

This Keto Lasagna with Spaghetti Squash became a go-to dish in my home when I was craving lasagna but wanted a healthier, low-carb option. The squash works perfectly as a noodle replacement, and the turkey and cheese give it the rich flavor of traditional lasagna without all the carbs!

Call-to-Action

Try this Keto Lasagna with Spaghetti Squash for your next dinner! It’s an easy and healthy twist on classic lasagna that will leave you satisfied without the carbs.

You may also like...