Easy High Protein Lasagna with Cottage Cheese

This viral high protein lasagna recipe I created is one of my personal favorites. As a dietitian and busy mom, I am always looking for easy ways to add nutrients to comfort recipes my family loves and enjoys.

I like to find ways to make recipes more filling and nutritious so I hope you love this high protein cottage cheese lasagna recipe as much as we do! I made the lazy cottage cheese lasagna version especially for busy moms who are looking for quick and easy healthy recipes.

This recipe combines savory ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful blend of ricotta and cottage cheese, all layered with lasagna noodles, rich tomato sauce and shredded cheese.

High protein lasagna is perfect for a quick and easy dinner idea or meal prep with minimal prep time. Whether you’re looking to boost your protein intake or simply enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthy twist, this dish has it all!

High Protein Lasagna: Your Delicious Solution for a Protein-Packed Meal

In 2024, protein continues to be a top choice for those looking to support muscle growth, manage weight, and maintain overall health. But it’s not just about eating more protein; it’s about incorporating it in delicious and satisfying ways. That’s where my high protein lasagna comes in—a perfect blend of flavor and nutrition that you’ll love!

Why Protein Matters: Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles, keeping you full and satisfied, and helping to regulate blood sugar levels. By including high-quality protein in your meals, you can manage your appetite better and support your fitness goals.

Protein-Packed Ingredients: This lasagna recipe is a fantastic way to boost your protein intake. I use lean ground meat and cottage cheese as primary protein sources. The cottage cheese, a secret ingredient, not only enhances the protein content but also provides a creamy texture that blends seamlessly into the dish. You’ll hardly notice this addition to traditional ricotta cheese!

Balanced Nutrition in Every Bite: As someone who tries to eat at least 100 grams of protein per day, this lasagna makes it easy to get my protein in at dinner or even lunch the next day!  It’s an excellent option for anyone looking to maintain normal portion sizes while still meeting their nutritional needs. The recommended dietary allowance for an average sedentary adult is 1.0 – 1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight.

Why You’ll Love This High Protein Lasagna Recipe

This high protein lasagna is not just another pasta dish—it’s a game-changer for those looking to enjoy a nutritious and satisfying meal. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Packed with Wholesome Ingredients: This lasagna is rich in protein, thanks to a combination of ground meat and a blend of ricotta and cottage cheese. These wholesome ingredients provide essential nutrients, making this dish a healthy choice for the whole family.

Perfect for Meal Prep: Busy week ahead? This recipe is a lifesaver! It’s easy to prepare in advance and freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Just reheat and enjoy a hearty, homemade meal anytime.

Sneaky Veggies for Added Nutrition: Getting picky eaters to consume vegetables can be a challenge. In this recipe, the vegetables are blended into the sauce, adding nutrients without altering the beloved lasagna texture. It’s an easy way to boost your veggie intake without the kids even noticing!

Delicious and Comforting: With layers of savory meat, creamy cheese, and a rich tomato sauce, this lasagna offers the comfort and taste of a traditional Italian dish. It’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even just a cozy night in.

Customizable and Flexible: Whether you prefer beef, turkey, or a vegetarian option, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can easily swap out ingredients to suit dietary preferences or what’s on hand.

Great for Leftovers: Lasagna is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day. The flavors meld together, making the leftovers a delicious and easy lunch option.

Ingredients to Make This Easy High Protein Lasagna Casserole

Creating a delicious and nutritious high protein lasagna starts with selecting the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component is essential for this recipe:

Onion and Garlic: These aromatic vegetables are the foundation of any good lasagna. They add depth and flavor to the sauce, making the dish savory and satisfying. Try to use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder, but that is fine if you are in a pinch!

Ground Meat: Whether you choose beef, turkey, or a leaner option, ground meat is a primary protein source in this recipe. It not only boosts the protein content but also provides a hearty texture and flavor.

Basil: I like to add fresh sliced basil leaves to my ground meat to add flavor. You can also add dried basil if you do not have fresh on hand.

Marinara Sauce: You can definitely make your own sauce, like my versatile Homemade Low Sodium Pizza Sauce Recipe (easy) , but I also love making a lazy lasagna and using jarred tomato sauce, like Rao’s. Known for its rich and authentic taste, Rao’s tomato sauce adds a flavorful base to the lasagna. It’s made from high-quality tomatoes and herbs, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Diced Vegetables (Carrots, Red Bell Pepper, Yellow Squash, Zucchini, Spinach): These vegetables are blended into the cheese mixture, providing a nutritional boost without altering the lasagna’s texture. This method is perfect for sneaking in extra nutrients, especially for picky eaters. Feel free to use any other vegetables you like or omiting those that you do not have on hand. TIP: buy this chopper to make this process so much quicker and easier!! It saves me a ton of time in so many recipes!

Seasoning: Italian seasoning and a little black pepper is going to give this dish lots of added flavor! 

Ricotta Cheese Mixed with Cottage Cheese: This combination offers a creamy texture while significantly increasing the protein content. Cottage cheese is a great substitute for some or all of the ricotta, adding a subtle flavor that blends well without overpowering the dish.

Lasagna Sheets: You can use ANY lasagna noodles in your high protein lasagna recipe. I love the oven-ready sheets but if you have the extra time, feel free to switch it up. When I do have the time, I like using whole wheat lasagna sheets for added fiber. 

Shredded Cheese: Topping the lasagna with shredded mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese, creates a deliciously cheesy and golden crust. It also adds extra protein and calcium, enhancing both the flavor and nutritional value.

How to Make Easy High Protein Lasagna

Creating this delicious and nutritious high protein casserole lasagna is straightforward and can be broken down into four simple steps. Make sure you check out this video I made to see a visual how I made this recipe.

Cooking the Onion, Garlic, Meat, and Tomato Sauce

Start by sautéing finely chopped onion and minced garlic in a large skillet over medium heat until they’re soft and fragrant. Add your choice of ground meat (beef, turkey, etc.) and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper and a small handful of fresh sliced basil leaves or dried basil for added flavor. Once the meat is fully cooked, pour in the pasta sauce and mix together. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Cooking the Vegetables

In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced vegetables (carrots, red bell pepper, yellow squash and zucchini) and sauté until they are tender. Then add in fresh spinach until it wilts a little. This step enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables and ensures they are soft enough to blend smoothly.

Preparing the Cheesy Vegetable Mixture

Transfer the cooked vegetables to a high-speed blender. Be careful this will be hot so make sure to use a blender that can withstand the heat, like this Vitamix. Add the ricotta cheese and cottage cheese, then blend until smooth and creamy. This mixture will be a key component in adding both flavor and protein to the lasagna, while also sneaking in extra vegetables for added nutrition.

Assembling the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, start by spreading a layer of the ground beef and tomato sauce mixture at the bottom. Place a layer of lasagna sheets over the sauce, followed by another layer of the beef tomato sauce mixture. Then, spread a generous layer of the cheesy vegetable mixture. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with a layer of shredded cheese on top.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious and easy high protein lasagna!

Tips for Making the Best Lasagna Recipe

1. Use Quality Ingredients:
   • Sauce: Opt for high-quality tomato sauce, like Rao’s, to ensure a rich and flavorful base.
   • Cheese: Use fresh ricotta and good-quality shredded cheese for a creamy texture and robust taste.
   • Meat and Vegetables: Choose lean ground meat and fresh vegetables to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of your lasagna.
2. Season Generously:
   • Don’t skimp on seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs (basil, oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning). Proper seasoning enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
3. Balance the Layers:
   • Distribute ingredients evenly across layers to ensure each bite is flavorful and well-balanced. A good ratio of sauce to cheese and noodles prevents the lasagna from being too dry or too soupy.
4. Cook the Pasta Al Dente:
   • If using regular lasagna noodles, cook them al dente (slightly firm) to avoid overcooking during baking. This helps maintain a pleasant texture.
5. Blend Vegetables for a Smooth Texture:
   • Blending vegetables into the sauce or cheese mixture not only adds nutrients but also ensures a smooth texture that blends seamlessly into the lasagna, especially helpful for picky eaters.
6. Let it Rest:
   • After baking, allow the lasagna to rest for at least 10-15 minutes before cutting. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve neat slices.
7. Use a Deep Baking Dish:
   • A deep dish allows for more layers and prevents the sauce from bubbling over. It also helps the lasagna cook more evenly.
8. Consider Making Ahead:
   • Lasagna often tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Prepare it a day in advance, refrigerate, and then bake it when ready to serve.

These tips will help you create a lasagna that’s not only delicious and satisfying but also visually appealing and well-balanced in flavor and texture.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian or Vegan Options: Substituting the meat with plant-based protein sources like lentils, tofu, or a meat substitute, and using dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure all ingredients used are gluten-free.

Low-Carb Version: You can use zucchini noodles or other low-carb alternatives if you are trying to find ways to lower the carb in this recipe. 

How to Store & Reheat Lasagna

Storing Lasagna:

1. Refrigeration:
   • Cool First: Allow the lasagna to cool to room temperature before storing it to prevent condensation and sogginess.
   • Airtight Container: Store the lasagna in an airtight container or tightly cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
   • Refrigerator: Place in the refrigerator and consume within 3 to 5 days.
2. Freezing:
   • Portioning: If freezing, consider portioning the lasagna into individual servings for easier reheating.
   • Wrap and Freeze: Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, or place in airtight freezer-safe containers or bags.
   • Labeling: Label with the date to keep track of storage time.
   • Freezer Storage: Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lasagna:

1. In the Oven:
   • Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Cover and Reheat: If reheating a large portion or whole lasagna, cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture and heat evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispier top, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes.
   • Check Temperature: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
2. In the Microwave:
   • Individual Portions: Place a single serving on a microwave-safe plate.
   • Cover: Cover with a microwave-safe cover or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
   • Heat: Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. If not hot enough, continue to heat in 30-second increments.
   • Stir and Check: For even heating, you may need to stir or rearrange the lasagna halfway through.
3. In the Air Fryer (Optional):
   • Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
   • Wrap and Heat: Wrap the lasagna in aluminum foil and place it in the air fryer basket.
   • Reheat: Cook for about 10-15 minutes, checking halfway to ensure even heating.

Always ensure that lasagna is heated thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

How to Tell if Lasagna is Done?

Lasagna is done when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly browned. To be sure, you can insert a fork or knife into the center of the lasagna; if it comes out hot and the layers feel tender, it’s done. If you have a food thermometer, the internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.

How Long Can I Keep Lasagna in the Fridge Before Cooking?

Uncooked lasagna can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. If you need to store it for longer, consider freezing it instead.

Can You Boil No-Boil Lasagna Noodles?

No- boil lasagna noodles are designed to be used without pre-cooking, as they absorb moisture from the sauce during baking. However, you can boil them if you prefer a softer texture. If you choose to boil no-boil noodles, do so briefly—just a few minutes—until they are pliable, but not fully cooked. This can make them easier to handle and layer.

How Long is Leftover Lasagna Good For?

Leftover lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Keep it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. For longer storage, you can freeze the lasagna for up to 3 months. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before eating, either in the oven or microwave.

Oven-Ready Lasagna Noodles vs. Regular

Oven-Ready (No-Boil) Lasagna Noodles: These noodles are pre-cooked and dehydrated, designed to be used straight out of the package. They save time since you don’t need to boil them before layering. However, they require adequate moisture from the sauce to soften properly during baking.

Regular Lasagna Noodles: These noodles need to be boiled before assembly, which can be time-consuming. Boiling allows for more control over the texture and ensures the noodles are fully cooked. Some people prefer the slightly thicker and more substantial texture of regular noodles.

In summary, oven-ready noodles are convenient and save time, while regular noodles provide a more traditional texture and require boiling. The choice depends on your preference and time available for preparation.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

For more similar recipes:

• Easy Mediterranean Diet Lasagna Recipe (Vegetarian)
• Chicken and String Beans Recipe (Panda Express Copycat)
• List of Meal Planning Dinner Ideas (100 Easy Meals)
• Easy Low Sodium Meatballs Recipe (Baked, No Salt Added)

There’s something about an easy high protein lasagna recipe that the whole family loves. It’s a complete meal that’s easy and quick to prepare, great for a crowd and great for meal prepping or a freezer meal.

If you’ve tried this quick easy high protein lasagna, or any other recipe on The Mom Nutritionist, then don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave me a comment below! I would love to hear about your experience making it. And if you took some pictures of it, share it with me on Instagram so I can repost on my stories!

High Protein Lasagna

This easy high protein lasagna recipe is delicious and so easy to make. It's made in a similar way as traditional lasagna but with a few small tweaks to make this easy high protein cottage cheese lasagna high protein and nutritious!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 387 kcal

Equipment

• High-speed blender
• Deep 9×13- Inch Glass Baking Dish

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

Tomato & Beef Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic mashed
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil* sliced
• 1 24-ounce Marinara Sauce or Pasta Sauce

Vegetable & Cheese Mixture

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large carrot diced
• 1 medium yellow squash diced
• 1 medium zucchini diced
• 1 medium red bell pepper diced
• 2 cups spinach
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 2 cups cottage cheese

For Assembly

• 12-16 lasagna sheets
• 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided

Instructions

 

• Heat oven to 375°F.

Cooking the Onion, Garlic, Meat, and Tomato Sauce

• Heat the olive oil over medium hight heat. Add the finely chopped onion until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add mashed garlic and cook for a few minutes until fragrant.
• Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper and a small handful of fresh sliced basil leaves or dried basil for added flavor.
• Once the meat is fully cooked, pour in the pasta sauce and mix together. Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Vegetable & Cheese Mixture

• In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced vegetables (carrots, red bell pepper, yellow squash and zucchini) and sauté until they are tender. Then add in fresh spinach until it wilts a little.
• Transfer the cooked vegetables to a high-speed blender. Add the ricotta cheese and cottage cheese, then blend until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the high-protein lasagna

• Add 1 cup of the tomato sauce and beef mixture to a 9×13 baking dish and spread evenly. Top with 3-4 sheets of lasagna noodles. Layer with ⅓ of the vegetable and cheese mixture, then add ⅓ of the mozzarella cheese and then ⅓ of the remaining tomato and beef sauce. Continue for 2 more layers, and finish with noodles topped with tomato and beef sauce and the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
• Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, and bake an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
• Let rest for 15 minutes before cutting.

Notes

• Use 1 teaspoon dried basil if you do not have fresh basil on hand.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They will last about 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Freezing Instructions: You can also freeze the high protein lasagna for up to 3 months. To re-heat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake in a 350°F oven until heated through. You can also freeze the uncooked lasagna. Follow the baking instructions and make sure to let it completely cool before freezing.

Nutrition

Serving: 6servingsCalories: 387kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 36gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 18gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 71mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 579mgFiber: 9gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 830IUVitamin C: 42mgCalcium: 286mgIron: 4mg

Keyword easy lasagna, high protein

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!