The smell of tomato sauce bubbling under a cheesy crust hit me like a hug from my grandma’s kitchen. Only this time, it’s a Easy Healthy Lasagna that’s been making the rounds on TikTok and Pinterestlightened up, but still all the comfort. People love it because it’s cozy, filling, and secretly kind of good for you.
This dish layers tender zucchini, creamy ricotta, and a bright, garlicky marinara. Think low carb lasagna meets your mom’s Sunday casserolejust without the food coma. It’s pantry-friendly, weeknight-easy, and yes, you can totally make it on a sheet pan. Full details in the blog!
I made this for my teenagers during one of those “I have no time and everything is frozen” nights. Swapped noodles for veggies, crossed my fingers, and boomit worked. I tested it three times (with notes!). You’ll love the secret that makes it extra cozy.
The BEST Easy Healthy Lasagna Recipe combines cheesy, creamy goodness with lightened-up ingredients. This Healthy Lasagna is perfect for a nutritious dinner and naturally includes options like Low Carb Lasagna and Protein-Packed Lasagna.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound lean ground beef
1/2 cup diced onion (chopped)
2 cups finely diced zucchini (about 2 small or 1 medium or large zucchini)
1 cup finely diced summer squash (about 1 medium or large summer squash)
1 15 ounce can whole tomatoes (2 cups or crushed tomatoes if preferred)
Cook the chopped onion and ground beef until the beef is fully cooked over medium-high heat in a large pan with high sides about 10 minutes.
Cut the zucchini and summer squash into small 1/4 to 1/2 inch cubes.
Set beef aside and drain.
Cook the zucchini and summer squash for about 7 to 10 minutes.
Add in the tomatoes tomato sauce and spices.
Continue cooking over medium heat for another 7 to 10 minutes stirring often and breaking down the whole tomatoes with a spatula.
Add the cooked beef and onions back into the tomato sauce mixture and stir.
Pour about 1/4 of the tomato sauce mixture into a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
Place 4 of the lasagna noodles on top then add another 1/4 of the sauce on top of the noodles.
Add half of the cottage cheese to the casserole dish.
Top with half of the parmesan and half of the mozzarella.
Repeat steps 9 to 12 with the remaining ingredients.
Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Uncover and bake for another 15 minutes.
Let cool for a few minutes then serve warm and enjoy
Notes
Make-Ahead: Assemble the recipe the night before or even in the morning then cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to cook
If you want to freeze it for later simply wrap the unbaked lasagna in plastic wrap and foil or place it in a glass casserole dish with an airtight lid then freeze it for up to 3 months
When you’re ready bake it straight from the freezer just add 15 to 20 minutes to the baking time
Tips: Feel free to swap the whole tomatoes with crushed tomatoes if preferred
While cooking the sauce break down the whole tomatoes with a spatula for a smoother sauce texture
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Category:Main Course
Method:Baked
Cuisine:American, Italian
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 Slice
Calories:407 kcal
Sugar:5 g
Sodium:1568 mg
Fat:15 g
Saturated Fat:8 g
Unsaturated Fat:1 g + 5 g
Trans Fat:0.3 g
Carbohydrates:28 g
Fiber:2 g
Protein:40 g
Cholesterol:99 mg
Why It’s a Family Favorite
This easy healthy lasagna has truly become a weeknight hero for my family countless times. It perfectly blends everything we cherish: hearty layers of cheesy goodness, a rich, deeply flavored tomato sauce, and the clever addition of vegetables that even the pickiest eaters enjoy. It’s reminiscent of the comforting lasagna from childhood memories, but thoughtfully lightened up to feel a bit better for you.
What makes it genuinely special is its straightforward approachability. Even if you’re not a seasoned cook, you’ll find this recipe remarkably simple to follow. The harmonious blend of savory meat, tender zucchini, and luscious melted cheese creates that unmistakable homemade taste. It’s comfort food perfectedsatisfying and delicious, yet without the typical heavy feeling or a three-hour prep time.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s a concise look at the essential ingredients for this recipe. These everyday items combine to create one truly delicious and satisfying meal:
Lean Ground Beef (90/10 recommended): The foundational protein, providing a rich, savory base for your lasagna.
Onion: Finely diced, adds aromatic depth to the meat sauce.
Zucchini & Summer Squash: Diced, these vegetables add a tender texture and boost the nutritional value. A bonus: they absorb all the wonderful sauce flavors.
Canned Whole Peeled Tomatoes & Tomato Sauce: Pantry powerhouses that form the base of a rich, luscious marinara. Feel free to use crushed tomatoes if you prefer a smoother sauce.
Italian Seasoning, Salt & Black Pepper: Key spices to elevate the flavors of your sauce.
No-Boil Lasagna Noodles: These oven-ready noodles streamline the process, eliminating the need for pre-boiling.
Cottage Cheese (low-fat option available), Parmesan, and Mozzarella: The ultimate trio for creamy, melty, cheesy perfection.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on pantry items, the whole peeled tomatoes can be swapped for more tomato sauce or diced tomatoes in a pinch. This is one forgiving recipe that adapts well!
Simple Steps to Make It
Let’s break down the assembly process step by step to ensure a foolproof and delicious result:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large sauté pan, cook the lean ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is thoroughly browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease, then set the cooked beef and onion aside.
In the same pan, add a splash of olive oil if needed, then sauté your finely diced zucchini and summer squash for about 7–10 minutes, or until they become nice and tender. Stir in the whole peeled tomatoes (breaking them down with a spoon as you stir), tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for another 7–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Now for the layering! Spread approximately a quarter of your rich tomato sauce mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) casserole dish. Lay 4 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, followed by more sauce, half of the cottage cheese mixture, and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella. Repeat these layers one more time. Finish the top layer with the remaining sauce, a final layer of noodles, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling with cheesy goodness.
Allow the lasagna to cool for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving warm. Trust me, it’s hard to wait, but this resting time helps the layers set beautifully!
Step
Action
Timing
1
Cook ground beef & onion
10 minutes
2
Sauté zucchini & squash, simmer sauce
15–20 minutes
3
Layer & assemble
10 minutes
4
Bake (covered + uncovered)
45 minutes
Easy Customizations
This Easy Healthy Lasagna is incredibly flexible, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences with just a few simple tweaks:
Low Carb Lasagna: Easily swap the traditional lasagna noodles for thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant ribbons for a delicious veggie-forward and low-carb option.
Vegetarian Lasagna: Omit the ground beef and instead incorporate sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a mix of roasted vegetables like bell peppers and spinach for a satisfying plant-based protein alternative.
Protein-Packed Lasagna: For an even heartier meal, double up on the lean ground beef or add cooked ground turkey to boost the protein content.
Don’t hesitate to mix and match depending on what vegetables you have on hand – this recipe is perfect for utilizing those odds and ends in your fridge!
How to Serve & Store
We adore this cozy lasagna served fresh out of the oven, ideally with a side of crusty garlic bread or a simple, crisp green salad. But if you ask me, the leftovers are truly the gift that keeps on giving!
To Refrigerate: Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover them and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
To Freeze: This lasagna is perfect for meal prepping! Assemble it uncooked, wrap it tightly with several layers of foil and then plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then add an extra 15–20 minutes to the covered baking time to ensure it’s heated through before uncovering. You can also freeze baked portions.
Pro Tip: Bake an extra pan and freeze it for future busy nights. You’ll definitely thank yourself later when a delicious, homemade dinner is just a reheat away!
Expert Insight: Crafting Easy Healthy Lasagna
Lasagna is often perceived as an indulgent dish, but by thoughtfully incorporating lean proteins, no-boil noodles, and an abundance of fresh vegetables, it transforms into a truly EASY HEALTHY LASAGNA option. This balanced approach marries rich, satisfying flavors with vital nutrient density, making it a wholesome meal that appeals to both taste buds and wellness goals, all without sacrificing simplicity or comfort.
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The Long Road to Easy Healthy Lasagna
Perfecting this easy healthy lasagna recipe didn’t happen overnightin fact, it involved countless tweaks and a few too-soft noodles before I finally nailed it. Balancing robust flavors while keeping it light and nourishing took patience, but the final result is truly worth every step: a comforting, nourishing dish that feels like a warm hug and comes together without any stress.
FAQs ( Easy Healthy Lasagna )
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. Assemble your lasagna a day before and store it covered in the fridge. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge; you may need to add extra baking time. This helps flavors meld and saves time on busy days.
How can I make this lower in carbs?
To reduce carbs, swap regular noodles for zucchini slices or use thinly sliced eggplant. Cauliflower sheets also work well as a gluten-free, low-carb alternative. These options keep the dish healthy without sacrificing texture or flavor.
What are the best cheeses to use?
Mozzarella and part-skim ricotta create a creamy, melty texture with lower fat content. Adding a bit of Parmesan boosts flavor without overpowering. For a lighter option, use low-fat cottage cheese mixed with herbs for extra protein.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely, swap the meat for layers of grilled vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Use plant-based protein or extra cheese to keep it hearty. This meal stays nutritious and flavorful without any meat needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Cool leftovers to room temperature before covering tightly. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through for the best texture.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, this healthy lasagna freezes well. Wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap after cooling completely. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. Freezing helps you enjoy this dish anytime with minimal prep.
Conclusion
Easy Healthy Lasagna is genuinely the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with comforting aromas and leaves everyone at the table eager for seconds. In just under an hour of active time, you achieve tender layers, beautifully bubbling cheese, and that quintessential homemade tomato sauce scent that feels like a warm embrace. Whether it’s a bustling weeknight or a leisurely Sunday, you’ll adore how effortlessly it comes togetherdelivering comforting flavors that don’t weigh you down.
Here’s a little secret I’ve picked up from my own kitchen experiments: opting for thin zucchini ribbons instead of traditional noodles makes this dish naturally gluten-free and low-carb, all without sacrificing a shred of flavor or satisfaction. Leftovers reheat wonderfully, and freezing an extra pan is an absolute lifesaver on those “what’s for dinner?” days. Plus, a sprinkle of fresh basil or a crisp green salad on the side elevates this cozy meal to the next leveltrust me, it’s a worthwhile touch!
Have you tried your hand at this Easy Healthy Lasagna yet? I’d absolutely love to see your photos or hear about your favorite twists in the comments below. Did your family have a similar comfort dish growing up that you’ve lightened up? Be sure to save this recipe for later and share it with someone who needs a little cozy goodness in their lifeit’s pure kitchen magic made simple.
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
