Ditch the Noodles Lasagna

Name: Ditch the Noodles Lasagna
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 32 oz marinara sauce; ½ pound ground turkey or beef; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 2 tbsp shredded Parmesan cheese; 8 oz mozzarella cheese

Published: July 11, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation – Ditch the Noodles Lasagna can be made in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
Low Carb Delight – With only 5 grams of net carbs per serving, this dish fits perfectly into a low-carb diet.
Rich Flavor – The combination of cheeses and marinara sauce delivers a comforting taste that rivals traditional lasagna.
Versatile Serving Options – Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, these individual ramekins make serving easy.
Noodle-Free Goodness – Enjoy all the classic lasagna flavors without the added carbohydrates from pasta.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Ditch the Noodles Lasagna, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet
Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Ramekins

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet – This is essential for browning the sausage and mixing in the marinara sauce, ensuring even cooking and rich flavor.
Mixing bowl – Perfect for combining cheeses, allowing you to easily prepare your filling before layering.
Baking sheet – Provides stability when placing ramekins under the broiler, preventing spills and making cleanup easier.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

32 oz marinara sauce
½ pound Italian sausage

For the Cheese Mixture

15 ounce package ricotta
2 tbsp Parmesan cheese (shredded)

For Topping

8 oz mozzarella cheese (cut into 4 thick slices)
1 tbsp fresh parsley

How to Make Ditch the Noodles Lasagna

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add Marinara Sauce

Once cooked, add the marinara sauce to the skillet with the sausage. Stir well to combine and let simmer for a few minutes.

Step 3: Mix Cheeses

In a small mixing bowl, combine the shredded Parmesan cheese with ricotta cheese. Mix until well blended.

Step 4: Prepare Ramekins

Place four ramekins on a baking sheet for easy handling. Spoon a thin layer of meat sauce into each ramekin as a base.

Step 5: Layer Ricotta Mixture

Spoon about ½ cup of ricotta mixture into each ramekin on top of the meat sauce layer.

Step 6: Add More Sauce

Top each ramekin with approximately half a cup of meat sauce, ensuring an even distribution across all servings.

Step 7: Top with Mozzarella

Finally, add one slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each ramekin to create that delicious cheesy topping.

Step 8: Broil Until Heated Through

Place the baking sheet with ramekins under the broiler for about 10 minutes or until heated through and cheese is bubbly.

Enjoy your hearty, flavorful Ditch the Noodles Lasagna!

How to Serve Ditch the Noodles Lasagna

Ditch the Noodles Lasagna is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of flavor.
Parsley: Add chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

Accompanied by Salad

Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well, providing a crunchy contrast.
Arugula Salad: Toss arugula with lemon vinaigrette for a peppery side.

With Garlic Bread Alternatives

Keto-Friendly Garlic Bread: Use almond flour to create a low-carb garlic bread.
Cheesy Cauliflower Breadsticks: These add flavor while keeping carbs low.

How to Perfect Ditch the Noodles Lasagna

Creating the perfect Ditch the Noodles Lasagna involves attention to detail and a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your lasagna turns out beautifully every time.

Use High-Quality Marinara: Choose a flavorful marinara sauce; it makes all the difference in taste.
Layer Ingredients Wisely: Alternate layers of meat sauce and cheese for even distribution of flavors.
Broil for Crispiness: Broiling at the end adds a delightful crispy top layer.
Let It Rest: Allow the lasagna to sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps it set and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Ditch the Noodles Lasagna

Complementing your Ditch the Noodles Lasagna with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

Garlic Parmesan Zucchini: Sauté zucchini with garlic and Parmesan cheese for a light and tasty side.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, making them an excellent accompaniment.
Cauliflower Rice Pilaf: A low-carb alternative that absorbs flavors well and adds texture.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus grilled until tender offers a fresh crunch.
Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with cheese and herbs as a colorful side dish.
Spinach Sauté: Quickly sauté fresh spinach with olive oil and garlic for added nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ditch the Noodles Lasagna, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Using the wrong cheese: Always choose fresh ricotta and quality mozzarella for optimal flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses as they may contain additives that affect melting.
Skipping the browning step: Browning the sausage enhances the flavor of your sauce. Don’t rush this process; allow it to brown well before adding marinara.
Not layering correctly: Ensure even layers in your ramekins to prevent sogginess. Start with sauce, then cheese, and repeat for a balanced texture.
Ignoring cooking times: Keep an eye on your dish under the broiler. Overcooking can lead to burnt cheese, while undercooking might leave it cold inside.
Using too much sauce: Balance is key! Too much sauce can make the dish soupy. Stick to the recommended amounts for perfect consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Allow lasagna to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Ditch the Noodles Lasagna

Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months.
Label containers with dates for easy reference.

Reheating Ditch the Noodles Lasagna

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual servings on high for 1-2 minutes until warm throughout.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, and cover until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Ditch the Noodles Lasagna, you’re not alone. Here are some common inquiries.

Can I make Ditch the Noodles Lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat before serving.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese is a great alternative if you want a similar texture. You can also use a plant-based ricotta if you’re looking for dairy-free options.

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe yields four servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prep!

What sides pair well with Ditch the Noodles Lasagna?

A fresh salad or steamed vegetables complements this dish nicely. Garlic bread is also a popular choice!

Is Ditch the Noodles Lasagna suitable for keto diets?

Absolutely! This recipe is designed with low-carb ingredients, making it ideal for keto dieters.

Final Thoughts

Ditch the Noodles Lasagna is an appealing option that brings all the flavors of traditional lasagna without the extra carbs. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary needs. Give this quick and tasty dish a try today!

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