Lo-Cal Lasagna
A light and flavorful lasagna featuring turkey sausage, fresh vegetables, and reduced-fat cheeses, perfect for health-conscious diners seeking a hearty, satisfying Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a pan with Pam and brown the ground turkey sausage with diced onion, green pepper, garlic salt, and oregano.
- Remove from heat and add the jar of lite spaghetti sauce and small can of pizza sauce.
- Spread 1 to 2 teaspoons of the sauce mixture in the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Layer uncooked lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread turkey mixture over the noodles, then add ricotta cheese and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layers as needed, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes at 350°F until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider using whole grain or lentil lasagna noodles, which can add additional fiber. You can also substitute ground turkey sausage with lean ground turkey or chicken for a healthier alternative. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor, so feel free to add basil or thyme. If you're short on time, pre-diced vegetables can speed up the prep process.
Serving Suggestions
This Lo-Cal Lasagna pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve with garlic bread or a slice of Mary Ellen's Lasagne for a comforting Italian twist. You can also complement it with steamed vegetables or a light soup for a balanced dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lo-Cal Lasagna contains roughly 455 calories, with 16g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 837mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese in this lasagna?
Absolutely! While non-fat mozzarella is used here, you can substitute it with part-skim mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses for more flavor. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding ricotta cheese for a richer taste. Just keep in mind that this may alter the calorie count.
Can I prepare this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate until you're ready to bake it. If you prep it ahead, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I do with leftover lasagna?
Leftover lasagna can be enjoyed as is or transformed into another meal. You can cut it into smaller pieces and use it in a pasta salad or layer it in a wrap with fresh veggies. You can also freeze leftovers for up to three months. Just ensure it’s well-sealed to avoid freezer burn.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).