Turkey lasagna is a lighter yet equally hearty take on the classic Italian favorite. Made with lean ground turkey instead of beef, it offers all the comforting layers of rich tomato sauce, creamy cheese, and tender pasta while being a bit lower in fat without sacrificing flavor. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table – warm, filling, and irresistibly satisfying.
The foundation of turkey lasagna is the savory meat sauce. Ground turkey is browned with garlic and onions, then simmered with crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and a blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme. Some versions include a splash of red wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra depth and a subtle kick.
Between the layers of sauce are sheets of lasagna noodles, either traditional or no-boil. In between, creamy ricotta cheese mixed with an egg and parsley adds richness, while shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan melt into gooey, golden perfection.
Once assembled, the lasagna is baked until the top is bubbly and lightly browned, with melted cheese cascading over the edges. The turkey filling remains juicy, the noodles perfectly tender, and every bite delivers a comforting balance of savory, cheesy, and tangy flavors.
Turkey lasagna is a versatile dish that works for casual weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
For drinks, serve it with a glass of medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Merlot, or opt for sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing balance.
Turkey lasagna is proof that comfort food can be both wholesome and indulgent. It delivers all the warmth and satisfaction of the original with a lighter, fresher twist that’s destined to become a regular on your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground turkey lean
- 9 noodles lasagna uncooked
- 2 cups ricotta cheese whole milk
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese part-skim
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated
- 3 cups tomato sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the ground turkey until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta cheese over the noodles, followed by half of the turkey mixture, then spread another layer of sauce, and sprinkle a portion of mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with a final layer of noodles covered with the remaining sauce and cheeses.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
Easy and yummy! But I forgot the oregano! 😂 Still turned out great though.
I don’t know about using turkey… I feel like it’s not as good as the traditional meat lasagna. Just saying.
I get what you’re saying! Traditional beef lasagna has its charm. But turkey is leaner, so maybe give it a chance? You might be surprised!
Turkey? Is that even lasagna? Sounds like a good way to ruin a classic dish if you ask me!
This lasagna is incredible! The turkey makes it a healthier option without compromising on flavor. My family loved it!
I’m glad to hear your family loved it! Turkey lasagna sounds healthier indeed, and I bet it was delicious with all that cheese. I can’t wait to try this myself!
I dunno about this turkey thing. Turkey in lasagna? Seems kinda weird. I stick to the classic beef, ya know? But if your fam liked it, that’s cool.
Great recipe! I added some spinach and it was delicious 😋. Will make again!
This lasagna was amazing! The turkey made it feel healthier than traditional ones. I’ll definitely make it again.
I tried using gluten-free noodles and it still worked! Awesome recipe.
I messed up the layers lol, but it still tasted great. Don’t know if it looks like the picture though!
Yassss! So good! I used a homemade sauce and it turned out fantastic! Best dinner ever!
Wow. Just wow. Best turkey lasagna I ever had. 😍
This lasagna was a hit at my family dinner! Everyone loved it!
I’m glad you enjoyed it! This recipe is a family favorite for sure.
Delicious and filling! Next time, I might add some extra veggies.
Sounds great! Extra veggies would be awesome. Maybe some spinach or bell peppers?
Tried this recipe last night. It was okay but felt a bit dry. Needs more sauce or something. Not my fave.
Seriously, who puts turkey in lasagna? Just stick with beef! May try it, but I have my doubts.
Turkey is healthier than beef! Give it a chance! You won’t regret it.
No way, man! Just stick with the classic beef. Turkey in lasagna? Sounds like a disaster.
I have a question, why do you put the cheese in twice? Seems confusing. 🤔
Lasagna delish! Gonna try with some spinach next time!
This recipe is too easy. I don’t trust it, must be missing something.
This was amazing! I used zucchini noodles instead of regular ones for a healthy twist. 5 stars!
I’m skeptical about using turkey. Isn’t beef supposed to be better for lasagna? Can’t be as good!
I totally get where you’re coming from! But turkey can actually be really tasty too. It’s leaner than beef, so maybe worth a try? 😊
Beef is king for lasagna! This turkey stuff just ain’t the same. Why ruin a classic? 🤷♂️
Too much cheese for my taste. I like it simple, maybe just one type would be enough.
I get what you mean, but I think the cheese adds a nice creaminess. You could always just use less next time if you want! 😊
Lasagna? More like lazagna huh. So easy to make! LOL 😂
I don’t know, is it really that easy? I always mess up the noodles. Maybe I’m just lazy? 🤷♂️
Haha, you nailed it! It’s super easy and sooooo good! Can’t wait to make it again. 😂
Wasn’t as great as I expected. The turkey was a bit dry. I think beef would be better.
Nah, I love turkey in lasagna! It’s healthier, you just gotta make sure not to cook it too long. Don’t give up on it yet!
I hear ya, turkey can really dry out if it’s overcooked. Maybe try it with a richer sauce next time? But I think beef would definitely add more flavor.
I dunno about that oregano, feels like too much flavor for me.
Followed exactly but turned out a bit dry. Maybe more sauce next time?
Hmm, I think I forgot the oregano 😬. Still tasted ok but I think it could’ve been better.
This lasagna is a game changer! So easy and tasty. My family loved it!
I’m so glad to hear that! This lasagna is my go-to when I’m short on time. So comforting and delicious. 💖
Really? I found it kinda bland. Maybe I missed something? 🤔
Turkey is gross. Who eats turkey lasagna? Just use ground beef.
I actually love turkey lasagna! It’s healthier than beef and tastes just as good if you spice it right. Give it a try!
But like, turkey is so dry compared to beef. Sounds kinda weird. I’ll stick to my beef lasagna, thanks.
My kids loved it! Easy to make and perfect for dinner. Will definitely make again.
What if I don’t have ricotta? Can I use cottage cheese instead? Asking for a friend.
I think lasagna needs more cheese. Next time I’ll add extra mozzarella for sure. Good recipe tho!
Lasagna??? I thought it was supposed to have beef. 🤷♀️
This is a healthier version! Turkey works great too! 🍗🧀
???
What do you mean??? It’s a great recipe! Turkey lasagna is delicious! 😊
Idk why you confused? It’s just lasagna but with turkey instead of beef. Same steps.
Yum! My kids gobbled it up! Definitely making this again!
That’s awesome! My kids are picky, might try this recipe because of your success.
Really? My kids never eat lasagna. I think they just hate the cheese or something.
Tasted good but kinda dry… maybe more sauce next time?
Yeah, I agree with you! It definitely needs more sauce to make it moist. I added an extra cup and it turned out good!