Are you ready to transform the way you enjoy lasagna? Say goodbye to heavy pasta and hello to a lighter, healthier alternative with our Hi Protein Zucchini Lasagna Meal Prep in Jars! This delightful Italian-inspired dish not only packs a protein punch with ground turkey and creamy ricotta, but it also makes meal prep a breeze. Perfect for busy weeknights, these individual servings are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to indulge guilt-free!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large zucchinis, sliced
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet and 4 mason jars or oven-safe containers.
- Slice zucchinis lengthwise into thin, even strips using a mandoline or sharp knife. Pat zucchini slices dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a large skillet, brown ground turkey over medium-high heat. Break meat into small crumbles and cook until no pink remains, about 7-8 minutes.
- Season ground turkey with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper until well combined.
- Begin layering in mason jars: Start with a thin layer of meat sauce, followed by zucchini slices, then ricotta mixture, and sprinkle mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layering process 2-3 times, ensuring each jar is evenly filled and topped with remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Place jars on a baking sheet and bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving or storing for meal prep.
- If meal prepping, allow jars to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating. Consume within 4-5 days.
Tips
- Choose the Right Zucchini: Opt for firm, medium-sized zucchinis for the best texture and flavor. Avoid oversized zucchinis, as they may contain too much moisture.
- Pat Dry: After slicing the zucchinis, be sure to pat them dry with paper towels. This step helps to prevent your lasagna from becoming watery.
- Layering Technique: When layering the ingredients in your jars, make sure to start and end with a layer of meat sauce. This not only helps to keep the zucchini moist but also ensures that the cheese on top gets that perfect golden-brown finish.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like spinach or mushrooms, to the layers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Bake in Batches: If you're preparing multiple jars, consider baking them in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Meal Prep Tips: For meal prep, let the jars cool completely before sealing them. Store in the refrigerator and consume within 4-5 days for the best taste and quality.
- Reheating: When ready to eat, simply microwave the jars for a quick meal. Just remember to remove the metal lids if you're using mason jars!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 410kcal
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 152mg