Turkey Spinach Lasagna

Turkey Spinach Lasagna is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or when you’re looking to prepare a meal ahead of time. This lighter twist on the traditional lasagna swaps out the classic beef for lean ground turkey and packs in nutritious spinach for added flavor and texture. The layers of tender pasta, savory turkey and spinach mixture, rich marinara sauce, and creamy ricotta and mozzarella create a deliciously satisfying dish that’s full of flavor but not overly heavy. It’s a balanced, crowd-pleasing meal that’s just as good, if not better, when reheated the next day.

Ingredients:

For the turkey and spinach filling:

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the cheese mixture:

• 1 container (15 oz) ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt

Other ingredients:

• 12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the turkey and spinach filling: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce, then add the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes to let the flavors meld. Set aside.
3. Mix the cheese filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley (if using), and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Assemble the lasagna: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Lay down the first layer of lasagna noodles. Spread a portion of the cheese mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of the turkey and spinach filling, and a bit of marinara sauce. Repeat the layers, ending with a final layer of noodles topped with the remaining cheese mixture and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella on top.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and the cheese is golden brown. Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve: Cut into squares and serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Turkey Spinach Lasagna is the perfect dish for anyone looking for a healthier take on a beloved classic. It’s packed with protein, vitamins, and rich flavors that come together in layers of cheesy, saucy goodness. Enjoy this comforting lasagna for dinner or take it to your next potluck – it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!