Description
This Spaghetti Squash Lasagna with Ground Turkey offers a nutritious and comforting alternative to traditional lasagna. Featuring roasted spaghetti squash strands as a low-carb, vitamin-rich base, lean ground turkey for protein, and creamy plant-based cheese, layered with a natural gelling agent tomato sauce and fresh vegetables. This wholesome dish is perfect for those seeking a lighter yet indulgent pasta experience that is easily customizable and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables & Base
- 1 medium spaghetti squash
- 2 cups fresh tomatoes (diced, natural)
- 2 cups spinach or kale (chopped)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Protein
- 1 lb ground turkey
Cheese & Sauces
- 2 cups plant-based cheese (shredded, mozzarella-style or cheddar-style)
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
Herbs & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (natural)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (natural)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent (such as pectin, agar, or carrageenan)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Spaghetti Squash: Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place each half cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes until the flesh is tender and can be shredded easily with a fork.
- Cook the Ground Turkey: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté finely chopped onions and garlic until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add the ground turkey, season with dried oregano, basil, thyme, and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. Cook thoroughly, stirring frequently until browned and fully cooked.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the diced fresh tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, and the natural gelling agent. Simmer gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly to a luscious consistency.
- Assemble the Lasagna: In a baking dish, begin with a layer of shredded roasted spaghetti squash strands. Add a layer of cooked ground turkey, followed by a layer of tomato sauce, spinach or kale, and a generous sprinkle of plant-based cheese. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a topping of plant-based cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the plant-based cheese to melt and lightly brown.
Notes
- Roast the spaghetti squash thoroughly to ensure easy shredding and enhanced flavor.
- After shredding the squash, squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent a soggy dish.
- Season each layer with herbs and spices to ensure rich flavor throughout.
- Fresh herbs are preferred for brighter and more vibrant taste.
- Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes after baking to set and develop flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: Spaghetti squash lasagna, ground turkey recipe, low-carb lasagna, gluten-free pasta alternative, plant-based cheese recipe, healthy lasagna, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce