If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that still feels light and fresh, you’re going to love this Simple Ground Turkey Lasagna Recipe. It’s a wonderful twist on the classic dish, swapping rich beef for lean ground turkey, and layering it with a luscious tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella that just begs for seconds. The flavors meld perfectly, bringing together savory herbs, a hint of sweetness, and that irresistible cheese pull we all adore. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Simple Ground Turkey Lasagna Recipe is how accessible and straightforward the ingredients are, yet each plays an essential role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the final dish shine.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Use a quality extra virgin olive oil like Bertolli for a smoother, richer sauce base.
- 8 garlic cloves, freshly minced: Garlic infuses the sauce with an irresistible aroma and depth of flavor.
- 1 lb ground turkey: Lean and nutritious, it’s the perfect protein that keeps the lasagna lighter.
- 1 onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and texture to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1.5 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes: I love Hunt’s for their consistent texture, making a robust, hearty sauce.
- 6 oz tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato richness and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 15 oz tomato sauce: Adds moisture and smoothness to the sauce mixture.
- 1 tbsp maple syrup: A surprising touch that balances acidity with a subtle, natural sweetness.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps adjust the sauce consistency perfectly.
- 1/2 cup fresh basil: Brightens the sauce with fresh herbaceous notes.
- 2.5 tsp Italian seasoning: A classic herb blend that brings warmth and complexity.
- 2.5 tsp oregano: Adds earthiness and complements the tomato base excellently.
- 1 tsp fennel seeds: Gives a slight anise-like sweetness, enhancing the meatiness.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes: A touch of heat to keep things interesting and lively.
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg: Just a pinch warms the cheese layer subtly, making it irresistible.
- 1.5 tsp salt (additional): For seasoning the sauce as it simmers.
- Freshly ground black pepper: To taste, adding a wee bit of spice and brightness.
- 15 oz ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it creates the signature cheesy layer of the lasagna.
- 1 egg, beaten: Helps bind the ricotta mixture so it holds beautifully when baked.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil: Stirred into the ricotta for fresh herbal flavor in every bite.
- 3/4 tsp salt (for cheese mixture): Seasoning to enhance the creamy ricotta layer.
- Freshly ground black pepper: A final seasoning touch for the ricotta mix.
- 10 lasagna noodles, boiled al dente: Key to keeping the texture perfect without getting mushy.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil: To sprinkle between layers for bursts of fresh, vibrant flavor.
- 20 oz mozzarella cheese: I prefer Galbani whole milk mozzarella for that ooey-gooey, stringy cheese pull everyone loves.
- 3/4 cup parmesan cheese: Adds nuttiness and a sharp finish on top of the melty layers.
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese: Additional parmesan to sprinkle throughout for depth of flavor.
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese: A final sprinkle for extra cheesy goodness.
- Fresh basil: Garnish and layer to keep each serving bright and fresh.
How to Make Simple Ground Turkey Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, toss in the ground turkey and cook until it’s browned all the way through. This builds the hearty base of the sauce. Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, tomato sauce, and water. Toss in your herbs and spices — basil, Italian seasoning, oregano, fennel seeds, red pepper flakes, nutmeg, salt, and pepper — along with the maple syrup. Let this simmer gently, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully while thickening for about 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
While the sauce simmers, mix the ricotta cheese with the beaten egg, chopped fresh basil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This mixture will bring creaminess and balance to the lasagna’s texture and flavor, so be sure it’s well combined but gently handled to keep it light.
Step 3: Boil the Noodles
Cook the lasagna noodles in salted boiling water until they are al dente. This step is crucial to avoid soggy noodles after baking. Once cooked, drain and lay them out flat on a clean kitchen towel or sheet to keep them from sticking together.
Step 4: Layer the Lasagna
In a baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom. Add a single layer of noodles, then spread a layer of ricotta mixture over them. Sprinkle fresh basil and some mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top. Repeat this layering process — sauce, noodles, ricotta, cheeses, and basil — ending with a generous topping of mozzarella and parmesan.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake the lasagna in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35 minutes. After that, remove the foil to allow the cheese on top to turn golden and bubbly, baking for an additional 10-15 minutes. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting to let those layers settle and keep every slice intact.
How to Serve Simple Ground Turkey Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley sprinkled on top right before serving add a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens each bite. You can also drizzle a touch of extra virgin olive oil to add a subtle richness on the finish.
Side Dishes
This lasagna pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a simple bruschetta also complement the hearty, cheesy layers beautifully for a complete and satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in mini cast iron skillets or bake in a large rectangular dish and plate the slices with a side of fresh roasted vegetables for an elegant presentation. A sprinkle of extra parmesan right before serving amps up the cheesy appeal and makes it feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Simple Ground Turkey Lasagna Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain that creamy texture and prevent the noodles from drying out. It’s perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This lasagna freezes beautifully, making it an excellent dish to prep in advance. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its eye-catching texture or flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the lasagna overnight in the fridge, then warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly. If you’re in a rush, individual slices can be reheated in the microwave, but the oven method keeps the layers intact and the top deliciously crispy.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey for this lasagna?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will keep the lasagna light while still providing that tender texture and mild flavor. Just adjust cooking times if necessary to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Do I need to pre-cook the lasagna noodles?
Yes, boiling the noodles al dente is essential for the best texture in this recipe. It prevents the noodles from becoming mushy during baking and helps the layers hold together nicely.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can! Substitute the ground turkey with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and lentils to create a satisfying vegetarian version that still captures the richness and texture of the original.
Is it okay to use shredded mozzarella instead of sliced?
Definitely. Shredded mozzarella melts smoothly and spreads easily throughout the layers, ensuring every bite is cheesy and gooey. Just be sure it’s a good quality mozzarella for the best flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the red pepper flakes to your liking or add a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the meat sauce. A spicy sausage addition can also work if you want a meatier kick.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Simple Ground Turkey Lasagna Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm, comforting hug during any season. It’s approachable but impressively flavorful, perfect for feeding the family or treating yourself to something special. Don’t hesitate—grab these simple ingredients and dive in. I promise you’ll find yourself making this delicious, wholesome lasagna time and time again.
Print
Simple Ground Turkey Lasagna Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Simple Ground Turkey Lasagna is a wholesome, flavorful twist on classic lasagna, featuring lean ground turkey simmered in a rich, seasoned tomato sauce, layered with a creamy ricotta mixture, tender lasagna noodles, and a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a family dinner, this recipe balances hearty protein and aromatic herbs for a satisfying Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Meat Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil (Bertolli Extra Virgin preferred)
- 8 garlic cloves, freshly minced
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 onion, finely diced (1/4-inch pieces)
- 1.5 tsp salt
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes (Hunt’s recommended)
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 15 oz tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup basil
- 2.5 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2.5 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp fennel seeds
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1.5 tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup basil, chopped
- 3/4 tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Assembly
- 10 lasagna noodles, boiled al dente
- 1/4 cup basil, chopped
- 20 oz mozzarella cheese (Galbani whole milk preferred), shredded
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup parmesan cheese
- Additional 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (for topping)
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onions and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato sauce. Add maple syrup, water, basil, Italian seasoning, oregano, fennel seeds, red pepper flakes, nutmeg, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Simmer the sauce uncovered over low heat for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with the beaten egg, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy, cohesive cheese layer for the lasagna.
- Cook Lasagna Noodles: Boil lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and lay flat on a sheet of foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. Layer 3-4 noodles over the sauce. Spread one-third of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles, sprinkle some chopped basil and shredded mozzarella, then a sprinkle of parmesan. Repeat layering two more times in the same order.
- Top and Bake: Finish the top layer with noodles, remaining meat sauce, mozzarella, and the final 1/4 cup parmesan cheese. Cover the dish tightly with foil.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Notes
- Boiling the noodles al dente prevents the lasagna from becoming mushy after baking.
- Using whole milk mozzarella provides a creamier texture and better cheese pull.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially the salt and red pepper flakes for preferred spice level.
- If time is short, no-boil noodles can be used but ensure enough sauce moisture for proper cooking.
- Allowing the lasagna to rest after baking helps it set and makes slicing easier.
- Maple syrup balances acidity in the tomato sauce and can be substituted with a small amount of sugar if preferred.
