There’s something magical about a bubbling dish high-protein meal prep lasagna coming out of the oven—but I used to think it was off-limits when I was focused on eating healthier or tracking my macros. That changed when I created this high-protein lasagna. It’s rich, cheesy, and comforting like the classic—but it’s built with lean meat, cottage cheese, and protein-packed noodles that align beautifully with your health and fitness goals.
This healthy lasagna recipe has become one of my staples when I need something satisfying but smart. I use lean ground turkey for the protein punch, creamy cottage cheese instead of ricotta to boost protein and cut fat, and high-protein pasta sheets to make every bite count. Whether you’re making it for meal prep, a high protein family dinner, or even a post-workout meal, this lasagna is balanced, nourishing, and totally craveable.
High-Protein Meal Prep Lasagna – Macro-Friendly, Meal Prep Comfort Food with 42g Protein Per Slice
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb lean ground turkey 93%
- 8 high-protein lasagna noodles like Barilla Protein+
- 1.5 cups low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1.5 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan
- 24 oz no-sugar marinara sauce
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp oregano
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Meat SauceHeat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté onion and garlic, then add turkey. Season with basil, oregano, pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Step 2: Mix the Cheese LayerIn a bowl, combine cottage cheese, egg, half the mozzarella, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Step 3: Assemble the LasagnaPreheat oven to 375°F. In a 9×13 baking dish, spread a layer of sauce. Add noodles, half the cheese mixture, more sauce, and repeat. Finish with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
- Step 4: BakeCover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake 20 more minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Secret Tips for a Next-Level High-Protein Meal Prep Lasagna
1. Use Cottage Cheese for Extra Protein: Swap traditional ricotta with low-fat cottage cheese—it’s creamier, higher in protein, and blends beautifully with herbs for a lighter, fluffier texture. 2. Add Egg Whites to the Cheese Mixture: Mixing in a few tablespoons of liquid egg whites into your cheese layer boosts the protein content and gives the lasagna structure without extra fat. 3. Use Chickpea or Lentil Lasagna Sheets: Replace standard pasta with chickpea or lentil-based lasagna noodles to sneak in even more protein and fiber while keeping it gluten-free if needed. 4. Double the Greens: Add layers of sautéed spinach, kale, or even zucchini ribbons between your meat and cheese layers to enhance micronutrient density and stretch each slice further. 5. Let It Rest Before Slicing: After baking, allow the lasagna to rest for 15–20 minutes. This keeps the layers intact when slicing for meal prep and prevents watery servings. 6. Portion Before Storing: Cut the entire pan into individual slices immediately after cooling. Wrap or store each in airtight containers for grab-and-go meals that reheat beautifully. 7. Boost Marinara with Protein: Blend your marinara with a scoop of unflavored collagen peptides or mix in some puréed white beans—it thickens the sauce while secretly upping protein per bite.Flavor Snapshot
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Course | Dinner, Meal Prep |
| Cuisine | American, Healthy |
| Skill Level | Beginner |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 5 minutes |
| Servings | 8 generous slices |
| Main Ingredients | Lean ground turkey, cottage cheese, high-protein noodles, marinara sauce |
| Tags | High-Protein Dinner, Low-Carb Dinner, Make-Ahead Dinner, Meal Prep Friendly, Comfort Food |
Fuel Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
| Calories | 385 kcal |
| Protein | 42g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 550mg |
With 42g of protein per serving, this high-protein lasagna makes a powerful post-gym or weeknight meal that keeps you full and fueled. Lentils, turkey, and dairy make it a top choice for muscle recovery according to Healthline.
Budget Breakdown (Est. Per Serving)
| Ingredient | Estimated Cost |
| Ground turkey (1.5 lb) | $6.00 |
| High-protein lasagna noodles | $3.50 |
| Cottage cheese (1.5 cups) | $2.00 |
| Egg | $0.25 |
| Shredded part-skim mozzarella (1.5 cups) | $2.50 |
| Grated Parmesan | $1.50 |
| Marinara sauce (24 oz) | $2.00 |
| Onion, garlic, spices | $1.00 |
| Total (8 servings) | $18.75 |
| Cost per slice | ~$2.35 |
From My Kitchen Notes
I created this high-protein lasagna during a meal prep phase when I needed something comforting and family-friendly that could still help me hit my nutrition goals. Classic lasagna recipes use ricotta, beef, and standard pasta, but I swapped in ground turkey, cottage cheese, and protein-enriched pasta to give it a lean, macro-balanced makeover.
Not only is it lighter in fat, but it’s also packed with fiber and protein—ideal for anyone working on muscle gain, weight loss, or just healthy eating. Inspired by my own fitness journey, this dish gives you everything you love about lasagna—layers of saucy, cheesy goodness—with none of the post-meal guilt. It freezes well, travels well, and tastes just as amazing reheated.
What’s the Big Deal?
High-Protein Ingredients
This high-protein lasagna doesn’t just taste indulgent—it’s built to fuel you. By using lean ground turkey, cottage cheese, and protein-packed pasta sheets, each serving delivers a solid 42g of protein. That makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a protein-packed lasagna for bodybuilding, recovery, or family dinner. Ingredients like turkey and cottage cheese are considered high-quality, complete proteins, and according to Healthline, they support muscle maintenance, satiety, and metabolism.
Balanced Macros
This lasagna hits the sweet spot between indulgent and intentional. Each slice contains a balanced mix of carbs, fats, and protein—making it a macro-friendly lasagna option for anyone tracking nutrients or eating for performance. It satisfies cravings while still aligning with your fitness or clean eating goals.
Meal Prep Friendly
It’s the ultimate meal prep lasagna. You can assemble it in advance, freeze it, or bake and portion it into containers for the week. It reheats beautifully and stays just as flavorful and cheesy days later. Whether you’re stocking your fridge for busy weeknights or planning your high-protein lunch meal prep, this recipe delivers every time.
Kid-Approved Comfort Food
Despite all the healthy swaps, it still has that nostalgic, cheesy lasagna taste the whole family will love. It’s the kind of high-protein dinner recipe you can serve to picky eaters without a second thought. The rich meat sauce, gooey mozzarella, and tender pasta layers feel like classic comfort food—with a smarter twist.
Lower Carb Option
Using cottage cheese instead of ricotta and opting for high-protein pasta significantly lowers the overall carb count while boosting nutritional value. It’s perfect for those looking to reduce refined carbs without giving up satisfying meals. You can even serve it with a side salad or roasted veggies to keep it light but filling—ideal for a low carb high protein dinner that doesn’t feel restrictive.
Best Shared When
Weeknight Dinner
After a long day, there’s nothing better than a warm, satisfying dinner that supports your health goals. This high-protein lasagna is the perfect macro-friendly comfort food—rich in flavor, balanced in nutrition, and simple enough for a busy weeknight. The quick prep, one-pan baking, and make-ahead flexibility make it a standout for nights when you need something hearty but intentional. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a crisp side salad for a well-rounded meal.
Sunday Family Meals
This recipe shines at the center of the dinner table. It’s hearty, cheesy, and layered with familiar flavors that even picky eaters will love. Whether you’re gathering around the table for a weekend family meal or prepping for the week ahead, this healthy lasagna recipe makes it easy to please a crowd without derailing anyone’s nutrition. With 42g of protein per slice, it delivers comfort and substance in equal measure—perfect for those prioritizing balanced, high-protein family dinners.
Meal Prep Mondays
Kick off the week strong by prepping a double batch of this protein-packed lasagna for meal prep. Slice it into portions, store in airtight containers, and you’ve got lunches or dinners ready to grab-and-go. This dish reheats beautifully and retains its flavor, texture, and satisfaction factor all week long. According to EatRight.org, preparing nutrient-rich meals ahead of time improves consistency and reduces the temptation to make less nutritious choices during the week.
Post-Workout Refuel
This lasagna was made for recovery. Whether you’ve just finished a lifting session or a cardio-heavy workout, the 42g of high-quality protein per serving supports muscle repair and replenishment. The combination of lean ground turkey, cottage cheese, and high-protein noodles makes this an ideal lasagna for muscle gain or post-gym dinners. Add a light green salad and you’ve got a balanced, refueling plate that tastes like a reward but eats like clean fuel.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients for high-protein meal prep lasagna
- 1.5 lb lean ground turkey (93%)
- 8 high-protein lasagna noodles (like Barilla Protein+)
- 1.5 cups low-fat cottage cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1.5 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan
- 24 oz no-sugar marinara sauce
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredient Highlights
- Ground turkey: Lean and rich in protein, perfect for cutting calories without cutting flavor.
- Cottage cheese: High in casein protein and lower in fat than ricotta. Great for healthy lasagna recipes.
- High-protein pasta: Adds structure and protein. Look for options made with lentils or chickpeas.
- Marinara sauce: Choose a no-sugar version for a cleaner ingredient profile.
The Fix-Up (Instructions for cooking this high-protein meal prep lasagna)
Step 1: Cook the Meat Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté onion and garlic, then add turkey. Season with basil, oregano, pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Mix the Cheese Layer
In a bowl, combine cottage cheese, egg, half the mozzarella, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat oven to 375°F. In a 9×13 baking dish, spread a layer of sauce. Add noodles, half the cheese mixture, more sauce, and repeat. Finish with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Step 4: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake 20 more minutes until bubbly and golden. Let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Pro Tips for Success
- Let it rest after baking to set layers.
- Use no-boil noodles for faster prep.
- Blend cottage cheese for a smoother texture.
- Add spinach or mushrooms for bonus nutrients.
Flavor Twists
Gluten-Free
If you’re avoiding gluten, it’s easy to make this gluten-free high-protein lasagna by using gluten-free, protein-enriched pasta sheets made from lentils, chickpeas, or brown rice. Many brands now offer pasta options that are both high in protein and free of gluten, so you don’t have to sacrifice texture or flavor. Just check labels for added nutrients and fiber content. This version is perfect for those following a gluten-free, high-protein dinner lifestyle while still craving cheesy, layered comfort food. According to Cleveland Clinic, gluten-free meals can support better digestion for those with sensitivities when paired with high-fiber, nutrient-dense ingredients like lentils and legumes.
Low-Carb
Cut the carbs while keeping all the comfort by replacing the pasta with thin slices of zucchini, eggplant, or even spaghetti squash. These vegetables act as a low-carb substitute that still holds up to the hearty meat sauce and creamy cheese layer. The result? A satisfying low-carb high-protein lasagna that’s lighter on your stomach but still heavy on flavor. This is a great option for anyone following a keto-adjacent or carb-conscious diet while still aiming to hit their protein targets.
Extra Protein
Looking to maximize your protein intake? Stir in cooked lentils, shredded chicken, or even mix in egg whites to the cottage cheese layer for a serious protein-packed lasagna boost. You can also top the lasagna with shredded cheese blends that offer more protein per gram or sprinkle hemp seeds for added amino acids and healthy fats. These tweaks are ideal for athletes, gym-goers, or anyone following a meal prep high-protein lasagna routine to meet their daily macros more effectively.
Vegetarian
Going meatless? No problem. Swap the ground turkey with cooked lentils, seasoned tofu crumbles, or a plant-based meat alternative like Beyond or Impossible ground. These substitutes still provide plenty of protein and texture, keeping your vegetarian high-protein lasagna filling and flavorful. You can also layer in extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to make it even more nutrient-dense. It’s a comforting, guilt-free dish that satisfies even the biggest meat-lovers
Leftover Love
- Fridge: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual slices or whole tray for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Microwave for 2–3 minutes or bake at 350°F until heated through.
Pull Up a Chair (Pairings)
Pair this high-protein lasagna with:
- Tzatziki Chicken Pizza
- Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry with Mushrooms
- Flavor-Packed Southwest Chicken Salad Bowl
Also tagged under: High-Protein Dinner, Low-Carb Dinner, Comfort Food Dinner
Kitchen Talk (FAQs)
What’s the best high-protein cheese for lasagna?
Cottage cheese and part-skim mozzarella are top picks for high-protein lasagna recipes. Cottage cheese contains nearly twice the protein of traditional ricotta and has fewer calories and fat—making it a smart choice for anyone focused on macro balance or clean eating. According to EatRight.org, lighter dairy options like low-fat cottage cheese can help improve nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make high-protein lasagna without noodles?
Absolutely. Use thin slices of zucchini or eggplant instead of traditional pasta sheets to create a low-carb high-protein lasagna. These veggie layers hold up well and add extra fiber, vitamins, and texture, making this a great option for gluten-free, keto, or lower-carb diets.
How can I make lasagna better for meal prep?
Bake, cool, and slice your lasagna, then store the individual portions in glass or plastic meal prep containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. This makes it perfect for macro-friendly lasagna meal prep, especially when you’re juggling a busy schedule but still want healthy meals ready to go.
Is cottage cheese better than ricotta in lasagna?
Yes, especially if you’re after a high-protein, low-fat lasagna. Cottage cheese offers a creamier texture when blended and contains more protein per gram than ricotta. It’s also more affordable and adds nutritional value with fewer calories and saturated fat—making it ideal for a lightened-up comfort dish.
What kind of noodles are best for protein-packed lasagna?
High-protein noodles made from chickpeas, lentils, or wheat-pea blends (like Barilla Protein+) are excellent choices. These pasta sheets enhance both the texture and the nutritional profile of your protein-packed lasagna, contributing fiber and essential amino acids to each bite.
How healthy is high-protein lasagna?
With its blend of lean ground turkey, cottage cheese, and high-protein pasta, this lasagna is a powerful mix of nutrient-dense, high-protein ingredients. It supports muscle building, appetite control, and sustained energy—all while tasting indulgent. USDA FoodData Central lists turkey and cottage cheese among top lean protein sources, making them excellent foundations for a balanced, clean dinner.
Can I make a macro-friendly lasagna ahead of time?
Definitely. Assemble the lasagna the night before and refrigerate it unbaked. When you’re ready, pop it into the oven for a fresh, hot meal with all the nutrition benefits of a macro-friendly dinner recipe. It also freezes well, so you can prepare several trays in advance and rotate them into your weekly meal plan.
How can I make my lasagna even higher in protein?
You can boost the protein content of your lasagna in several ways. Stir in cooked lentils or lean ground chicken alongside the turkey, add egg whites to the cottage cheese mixture, or top it with a high-protein mozzarella blend. These tweaks help create a bodybuilding-friendly lasagna that works hard to support your goals.
Can I freeze this high-protein lasagna?
Yes! Let it cool fully, slice it, and wrap portions tightly in foil or airtight containers. It freezes well for up to 2 months and is perfect for batch-cooked high-protein meals you can reheat on busy days.
Is this lasagna good for weight loss?
Yes, when paired with portion control and clean ingredients. Each slice of this healthy high-protein lasagna offers muscle-supportive protein and filling fiber, while keeping carbs and fats in check. It’s ideal for those managing calorie intake without giving up comfort food.
Final Thoughts
This high-protein lasagna proves you can enjoy classic comfort food while still crushing your health and fitness goals. With 42g of protein per slice, it fuels your day without weighing you down—and it tastes just as indulgent as the traditional version. I love making this for Sunday meal prep or a crowd-pleasing dinner. Once you try it, I guarantee it’ll become a regular in your healthy recipe rotation.
Whether you’re focused on macro tracking, weight loss, or simply want a better-for-you comfort meal, this lasagna is the real deal. Rich in flavor, packed with protein, and full of feel-good ingredients—it’s everything a smart dinner should be.
“Cheesy, satisfying, and macro-smart—this high-protein lasagna brings all the comfort without compromise.” – Molly
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A macro-friendly take on the classic—this high-protein lasagna layers lean turkey, cottage cheese, and protein-rich noodles into one irresistible meal.
