It is getting cold outside. You want something warm and cozy tonight. This High Protein Healthy Lasagna is the perfect answer.

It delivers all the classic flavors you love. Every bite is tender, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. This recipe makes eating well feel like a real treat for your family.

Why This Recipe Is a Winner

This dish is a total game-changer for your health goals. It packs a massive 30g of protein into every single slice. This helps you feel full and fueled all evening long.

It is perfect for busy weeknights when time is short. We use smart swaps like whole wheat pasta and blended cottage cheese. You get a nutritious meal that kids will actually finish.

Simple Method

Making lasagna can feel intimidating for beginners. This recipe keeps things very simple and straightforward. You just brown the meat and layer the ingredients.

The oven does most of the hard work for you. Using pre-made marinara saves you so much precious time. You can feel confident in the kitchen with this easy process.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are mostly simple pantry staples you likely have. Fresh spinach adds a lovely pop of color and extra vitamins.

1 lb extra lean ground beef (96/4)
24 oz low-sodium marinara sauce
2 cups low-fat cottage cheese, blended until smooth
1 large egg
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
9 whole wheat lasagna noodles
2 cups fresh baby spinach, chopped
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, then drain any excess fat.
Stir the marinara sauce, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the beef and simmer for 5 minutes.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the blended cottage cheese, egg, and parmesan cheese until combined.
Spread 1/2 cup of the meat sauce onto the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Place 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
Layer with half of the cottage cheese mixture, half of the chopped spinach, and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
Add another layer of 3 noodles, the remaining cottage cheese mixture, the remaining spinach, and 1/2 cup of mozzarella.
Top with the final 3 noodles, the remaining meat sauce, and the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing into 8 equal portions.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this warm with a fresh, crisp green salad. A light balsamic vinaigrette balances the rich cheese perfectly. It is the ultimate comfort food for a snowy day.

You can also pack slices into containers for easy lunches. It is a fantastic option for meal prep success. Your future self will thank you for this delicious mid-day fuel.

Storage & Reheating

This lasagna keeps beautifully in the fridge for four days. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can also freeze individual portions for up to three months.

To reheat, use the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes. This helps the cheese stay bubbly and the noodles tender. Microwaving also works well for a quick and easy lunch.

Recipe Tips

Blend your cottage cheese until it is completely smooth.
Do not skip the 10-minute rest time before slicing.
Use extra lean beef to keep the dish light.
Drain the cooked beef well to avoid a greasy sauce.
For a winter treat, add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese.
Swap spinach for kale if you want a heartier green.
Make the meat sauce a day early to save time.
Always cover with foil first to prevent the cheese burning.

Variations & Swaps

Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein choice.
Try gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this gluten-friendly.
Add sautéed mushrooms for an extra earthy flavor.
In summer, swap spinach for fresh garden zucchini slices.
Use spicy marinara if you like a little heat.

Common Questions

Can I taste the cottage cheese?

No, you cannot taste it at all once it is blended. It creates a creamy texture that mimics traditional ricotta cheese perfectly. Your family will never even know the difference.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the whole lasagna the night before. Keep it covered in the fridge until you are ready. Just add five minutes to the baking time if it is cold.

Do I need to boil the noodles first?

This recipe works best with standard noodles that are boiled first. However, you can use no-boil noodles if you add extra sauce. Make sure the noodles are fully covered by liquid.

I hope this High Protein Healthy Lasagna brings warmth to your home. It is such a joy to serve a meal that is both healthy and comforting. Give it a try and enjoy every cheesy bite!

— Lidia