Weight Watchers-Friendly Lasagna Recipe

Weight Watchers-Friendly Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients:

• 9 lasagna noodles (whole wheat or whole grain for a healthier option)
• 1 lb lean ground turkey breast (or lean ground beef)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar of marinara sauce (low-sodium if possible)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes (no salt added)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups reduced-fat mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 egg (for binding)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles:

   • Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce:

   • In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon until fully browned (about 5-7 minutes).
   • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, until softened.
   • Stir in the marinara sauce, crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let simmer on low for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:

   • In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan (if using), and the egg. Mix until well-combined.

4. Assemble the Lasagna:

   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
   • Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top.
   • Spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
   • Add a layer of meat sauce over the ricotta.
   • Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of meat sauce on top.

5. Top and Bake:

   • Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the lasagna.
   • Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

6. Let it Rest:

   • Once done, allow the lasagna to rest for about 10 minutes before cutting into it.

7. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve.

Points (WW Blue/Green/Personal Points):

The points for each serving will vary based on the exact ingredients you use, but with lean ground turkey and reduced-fat cheese, each serving can range from 6-8 points for a generous portion on most Weight Watchers plans.