How to Make Classic Lasagna from Scratch

Craving the rich, cheesy layers of traditional lasagna without the guilt? This Classic Lasagna has you covered! It delivers all the hearty, Italian-inspired flavors you love—tender noodles, savory meat sauce, and creamy ricotta—while keeping things light and wholesome. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests, this lighter version proves that comfort food can be both delicious and mindful. Say hello to a lasagna that loves you back!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• WW-Friendly Comfort: Layers of flavor without the heavy points.
• Meal Prep Hero: Tastes even better the next day and freezes beautifully.
• Family-Approved: Kids and adults will never guess it’s lighter!
• Customizable: Swap meats, add veggies, or go vegetarian.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps for a crowd-pleasing classic.

Ingredients

• 9 whole-grain lasagna noodles (oven-ready/no-boil for convenience)
• 1 lb 96% lean ground beef (or ground turkey for fewer points)
• 1 (24 oz) jar low-sugar marinara sauce (e.g., Rao’s Homemade)
• 1 cup fat-free ricotta cheese
• 1 cup reduced-fat shredded mozzarella
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg white
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup chopped spinach or zucchini (0 points)

Instructions

Prep the Meat Sauce

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer 5 minutes.

Mix the Cheese Layer

1. In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg white, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, and spinach/zucchini (if using).

Assemble the Lasagna

1. Spread 1/2 cup meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Layer 3 noodles, 1/3 of the ricotta mixture, and 1/3 of the remaining meat sauce. Repeat layers twice.
3. Top with remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella.

Bake & Rest

1. Cover with foil and bake 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10–15 minutes until bubbly.
2. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.

Nutritional Information

(Per serving: 1/8 of the pan)

• Calories: ~280
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 4g
• WW SmartPoints: 7 (with lean beef) or 8 (with turkey and extra cheese).

Tips for Success

1. Veggie Boost: Add layers of thinly sliced zucchini, mushrooms, or roasted eggplant (0 points).
2. No-Boil Noodles: Use oven-ready noodles to skip pre-cooking.
3. Vegetarian Option: Swap meat for plant-based crumbles or lentils.
4. Freeze It: Wrap individual portions for quick dinners (reheat at 350°F until warm).
5. Crispy Top: Broil 1–2 minutes at the end for a golden cheese crust.

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Watchers

• Lean Protein: 96% lean beef or turkey keeps points low while delivering flavor.
• Low-Fat Cheeses: Ricotta and mozzarella provide creaminess without excess fat.
• Whole-Grain Noodles: Added fiber keeps you fuller longer.

Serving Ideas

• With Salad: Pair with a zero-point garden salad and balsamic dressing.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with a slice of whole-grain garlic toast (track points).
• Meal Prep: Portion with steamed green beans for balanced lunches.

This Classic Lasagna is proof that you don’t have to give up comfort food to stay on track. With its meaty layers, creamy cheese, and savory tomato sauce, it’s a dish that satisfies cravings while fitting seamlessly into your wellness journey. Whip it up for Sunday dinner, and enjoy leftovers all week long—because healthy eating should always feel this indulgent!