Keto Lasagna - Healthy Recipes Blog (2024)

Home » Meat Recipes » Keto Lasagna

Last updated: · Recipes developed by Vered DeLeeuw and nutritionally reviewed by Rachel Benight MS, RD · This website generates income via ads and uses cookies.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

This hearty and flavorful keto lasagna proves once and for all that you don't need starches to enjoy traditional Italian flavors.

With tasty layers of spinach and cream cheese, seasoned ground beef, and mozzarella, this tasty lasagna is a big hit every time I make it.

Keto Lasagna - Healthy Recipes Blog (1)

This keto lasagna is so delicious. Warm layers of seasoned spinach, ground beef, and melted cheese - you won't miss the noodles!

I have learned that quite often, the flavors we associate with grains are, in fact, the flavors of the fillings and toppings, while the grains are no more than a filler or binder that absorbs the other flavors.

It's true for pizza, for example (see this cauliflower pizza crust), and it's also true for lasagna (check out this zucchini lasagna).

Jump to:
  • Ingredients
  • Variations
  • Keto Lasagna Instructions
  • Expert Tip
  • Recipe FAQs
  • Serving Suggestions
  • Storing Leftovers
  • More Spinach Recipes
  • Foodie Newsletter
  • Recipe Card
  • Reviews

Ingredients

The list of ingredients needed to make this keto lasagna is simple. You probably have most of them already. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

  • Frozen chopped spinach: I only tested this recipe with frozen chopped spinach. I always have it in the freezer, which is very convenient.
  • Olive oil: I love cooking with this delicious oil. But if you prefer an oil with a higher smoke point, you can use avocado oil instead.
  • Ground beef: I use lean ground beef (85% lean and 15% fat). Leaner than that will not be as flavorful.
  • Onion and garlic: It's fine to use jarred minced garlic, although freshly minced tastes better.
  • Kosher salt and black pepper: If using fine salt, you should reduce the amount you use by half.
  • Marinara sauce: Try to use a sugar-free brand such as Rao's.
  • Cream cheese: I use full-fat cream cheese.
  • Egg: I use large eggs in most of my recipes, this one included.
  • Cheeses: I like to use shredded mozzarella; occasionally, I add grated parmesan.

Variations

  • Chop up some fresh basil (about ¼ cup) and mix it into the cream cheese.
  • Dried herbs are good too - you can mix ½ teaspoon of any dried herb (oregano and basil are especially good) into the cream cheese.
  • Like your food spicy? Add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes to the cream cheese.
  • You can replace the mozzarella with another melty cheese, such as provolone.
  • Sprinkle a tablespoon of dry-grated parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella for added flavor.

Keto Lasagna Instructions

The detailed instructions for making this recipe are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of the steps:

  • Cook the beef and onion in olive oil. Drain the beef mixture, then return it to the skillet. Add the garlic, then mix in the marinara sauce. Turn the heat off. (Photo 1).
  • Soften the cream cheese in the microwave. Add the egg, black pepper, and salt. With a spatula, add the drained spinach and mix to blend everything together. (Photo 2).
  • Spread the spinach mixture evenly on the bottom of a greased baking dish. (Photo 3).
  • Top with the meat mixture. (Photo 4).
  • Sprinkle the mozzarella on top. (Photo 5).
  • Bake the lasagna until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned, about 30 minutes. Let it stand for ten minutes before cutting and serving. (Photo 6).
Keto Lasagna - Healthy Recipes Blog (2)

Expert Tip

It's important to remove as much liquid as possible from the spinach to prevent watery lasagna. You should drain it thoroughly by placing it in a colander and pressing on it repeatedly with the back of a large spoon.

Recipe FAQs

What is a good substitute for lasagna noodles?

I like to use vegetables. Whether zucchini in this zucchini lasagna, eggplant in this eggplant casserole, or spinach in this recipe, veggies make an excellent low-carb alternative to traditional noodles.

Can I use extra-lean ground beef?

I don't recommend it. While it won't be bad, it won't be as good as fattier meat, and the lasagna will come out a bit dry.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, absolutely. You can double this recipe and bake the lasagna in a 9X13-inch baking dish.

Serving Suggestions

I usually serve this keto lasagna as our main course. With its rich layers of meat, dairy, and veggies, it's a complete meal, so it doesn't really need any sides to go with it.

But you can serve it with a side if you wish. When I do, I like to serve it with a simple salad such as one of these:

  • Tomato salad
  • Arugula salad
  • Cucumber salad
  • Israeli salad
  • Asparagus salad
  • Cucumber tomato salad

Storing Leftovers

You can keep the leftovers in the fridge, in a sealed container, for 3-4 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave at 50% power.

You can also cut the lasagna into individual portions and freeze them in freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Keto Lasagna - Healthy Recipes Blog (3)

More Spinach Recipes

  • Crustless Spinach Quiche
  • Sauteed Spinach
  • Creamed Spinach
  • Spinach Artichoke Dip

Foodie Newsletter

I send out a weekly newsletter with a recipe and tips. Want these recipes in your inbox?Subscribetoday! You can unsubscribe at any time.

Recipe Card

Keto Lasagna - Healthy Recipes Blog (8)

4.99 from 497 votes

Pin Recipe Print Recipe

Keto Lasagna

This hearty and flavorfulketo lasagnaproves once and for all that you don't need starches to enjoy traditional Italian flavors.

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: Italian

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 404kcal

Author: Vered DeLeeuw

Ingredients

  • 10 oz frozen chopped spinach
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil plus more for the pan
  • 1 lb. lean ground beef (85/15)
  • 1 small onion chopped (4 oz)
  • 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt divided; or ½ teaspoon of any other salt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh garlic minced
  • ½ cup marinara sauce (I use Rao’s marinara sauce)
  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¾ cup part-skim mozzarella cheese shredded (3 oz)

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a square 8-inch baking dish.

  • Defrost the spinach in the microwave. Drain thoroughly by transferring the thawed spinach to a colander and pressing on it repeatedly with the back of a large spoon to extract as much liquid as possible. Set aside.

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes. Add the beef, onion, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook, using a wooden spoon to stir and break up the ground beef into small chunks, until the onion is soft and the meat is browned, 5-7 minutes.

  • Drain the beef mixture, then return it to the skillet. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds, then mix in the marinara sauce. Turn the heat off.

  • Place the cream cheese in a medium microwave-safe bowl and heat for 40 seconds to soften. With a fork, stir it until smooth and creamy. Add the egg, the black pepper, and the remaining ½ teaspoon of kosher salt and keep stirring the mixture until very smooth. With a spatula, add the drained spinach and mix to blend everything together. Mix well.

  • Spread the spinach mixture evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with the meat mixture. Sprinkle the mozzarella on top. Bake the lasagna until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned, about 30 minutes. Let stand for ten minutes before cutting and serving.

Video

Notes

It's important to remove as much liquid as possible from the spinach to prevent watery lasagna. You should drain it thoroughly by placing it in a colander and pressing on it repeatedly with the back of a large spoon.

You can keep the leftovers in the fridge, in a sealed container, for 3-4 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave at 50% power. You can also cut the lasagna into individual portions and freeze them in freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Nutrition per Serving

Calories: 404kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Sodium: 566mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g

Made this Recipe?

If you made this recipe, please leave a comment sharing your experience with others. Thank you so much!

Subscribe

I send out a weekly newsletter with a recipe and tips. Want these recipes in your inbox? Subscribe today! You can unsubscribe at any time.

Disclaimers

Cup measurements refer to the standard American cup, which is 240 milliliters. Most of my recipes are low-carb (or keto) and gluten-free, but some are not. Please verify that a recipe fits your needs before using it. Recommended and linked products are not guaranteed to be gluten-free. Nutrition info is approximate, and the carb count excludes non-nutritive sweeteners. Nutrition info may contain errors, so please verify it independently. Recipes may contain errors, so please use your common sense when following them. Please read these Terms of Use carefully before using any of my recipes.

About the Author

Keto Lasagna - Healthy Recipes Blog (9) Vered DeLeeuw, LL.M., CNC, has been following a low-carb real-food diet and blogging about it since 2011. She's a Certified Nutrition Coach (NASM-CNC), has taken courses at the Harvard School of Public Health, and has earned a Nutrition and Healthy Living Certificate from Cornell University. Her work has appeared in several major media outlets, including Healthline, HuffPost, Today, Women's Health, Shape, and Country Living. Click to learn more about Vered.

Reader Interactions

Comments

    Review this Recipe or Ask a Question:

  1. Judy

    Can you use canned chopped spinach?

    Reply

    • Vered DeLeeuw

      Hi Judy,
      I don't recommend that. Canned spinach is mushy and has a metallic aftertaste.

  2. Nicole

    HI,
    I am allergic to eggs. Do you think I can remove the egg and it will still be good? 🙂

    Reply

    • Vered DeLeeuw

      Hi Nicole,
      I only tested this recipe with an egg, so I'm not sure, but I think it's worth a try. I suggest mixing two tablespoons of heavy cream into the cream cheese instead of the egg. The lasagna might not set as well, and it's possible you would need to scoop it out instead of cutting it, but it should still taste good.

      Reply

  3. Susie Knott

    Keto Lasagna - Healthy Recipes Blog (10)
    Excellent! Quick and easy to make. Tastes excellent. Traditional lasagna noddles aren’t even missed!

    Reply

    • Vered DeLeeuw

      I'm so glad you liked this lasagna, Susie! Thank you for taking the time to write a comment.

      Reply

  4. Dianne S. Epstein

    This recipe looks absolutely fabulous but, due to my very high cholesterol levels coupled with a severe allergy to cholesterol meds, I need recipe's cholesterol level. Would you please be kind enough to provide? Thank you very much!

    Reply

    • Vered DeLeeuw

      Hi Dianne,
      According to the nutrition calculation tool used on this website, a serving of this recipe (a sixth of the entire lasagna) has about 130 mg of cholesterol.
      However, I would encourage you to verify this information independently. Here's a website where you can calculate the nutrition info for recipes . You can copy and paste the list of ingredients and make any changes needed to ensure the calculation uses the correct ingredients and amounts.

      Reply

      • Dianne S. Epstein

        Vered...Thank you so much for your help! It is greatly appreciated!
        Regards,
        Dianne

      • Vered DeLeeuw

        You're very welcome, Dianne. 🙂

  5. Terry Batson

    Keto Lasagna - Healthy Recipes Blog (11)
    I used fresh spinach...delicious! This will be a staple in our house!

    Reply

    • Vered DeLeeuw

      Yay! So glad you liked it, Terry!

      Reply

  6. Connie

    Can I use fresh spinach in this recipe?

    Reply

    • Vered DeLeeuw

      Sorry, Connie - I only tested this recipe with frozen spinach.

      Reply

  7. Brittany

    I’m not a huge fan of cream cheese. But I heard cottage cheese can be used in place of ricotta cheese. Do you think cottage cheese could be a fair replacement in this recipe?

    Reply

    • Vered DeLeeuw

      I don't think cottage cheese would work in this recipe.

      Reply

  8. Kathy Lehnick

    Quick question, could you use thinly sliced, lengthwise zucchini or eggplant to replace the noodles?

    Reply

    • Vered DeLeeuw

      There are no noodles in this recipe. I do have a recipe for zucchini lasagna that you could try. If you use zucchini or eggplant, it's important to grill them before using them in the lasagna to avoid watery lasagna.

      Reply

    • Lori

      Keto Lasagna - Healthy Recipes Blog (12)
      Delicious. Will be making this often. Perfect recipe. I followed it to the letter. Thank you.

      Reply

      • Vered DeLeeuw

        I'm so glad you liked this lasagna, Lori! Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment.

  9. Teresa

    Keto Lasagna - Healthy Recipes Blog (13)
    I made this recipe today. It came out delicious!!! Thanks Vered. ❤️

    Reply

    • Vered DeLeeuw

      Glad you liked it, Teresa!

      Reply

Keto Lasagna - Healthy Recipes Blog (2024)

FAQs

What is a healthy substitute for lasagna noodles? ›

Zucchini lasagna is an ideal low-carb dinner to satisfy your Italian food craving. It's perfect in the summer with garden-fresh veggies and herbs, or in the winter when you need a comforting meal. You won't even miss the noodles in this one!

Is lasagna healthy, yes or no? ›

Overconsumption of lasagna increases the fat content, which leads to heart disease or strokes in some cases. Ingestion of high carbohydrates might have a chance to increase sugar levels, which may become dangerous for diabetes. Portion control promotes digestive health, whereas overeating promotes indigestion.

Is lasagna healthy for diabetics? ›

Lasagna. Lasagna may be a delicious Italian comfort food staple, but it's not a great choice if you're trying to manage your blood sugar. Since noodles are the primary ingredient in lasagna, this dish tends to be high in refined carbohydrates and low in fiber.

How many carbs are in homemade lasagna? ›

Lasagna, homemade, beef (1 cup) contains 31.8g total carbs, 28.4g net carbs, 18.8g fat, 26.4g protein, and 402 calories.

What can I use instead of pasta in a lasagne? ›

Aubergine and courgette lasagne. A tasty, light lasagne that can be adapted for vegetarians using Quorn mince. This pasta-less lasagne recipe uses layers of thinly sliced courgettes and aubergines, replacing the traditional sheets of pasta used in most lasagne recipes. If youo prefer a deli-style lasagne, check out our.

Can I eat lasagna and still lose weight? ›

Can you eat pasta and still lose weight or fat? Will I gain weight if I eat pasta every day? Yes, you can eat pasta and still stick to your weight loss goals and lose fat. The main consideration to keep in mind when making food choices while trying to lose weight is to remain in a calorie deficit.

Is lasagna healthier than rice? ›

For lower calorie and carbohydrate content, rice comes out top. But if protein and fibre is your aim, pasta wins over rice. That said, both can play a part in a healthy diet - and as the nutritional differences are quite small, it often comes down to which you would prefer.

Why is pasta considered unhealthy? ›

Pasta Is High in Carbs

Refined pasta, in particular, is higher in carbs and lower in fiber than whole-grain pasta. Additionally, simple carbs like refined pasta are digested very quickly, leading to increased hunger and a higher risk of overeating ( 8 ).

What is the best pasta for diabetics to eat? ›

Whole wheat pasta is an excellent choice for diabetics as it contains whole grains. In addition to whole wheat pasta having a lower glycemic index than traditional pasta, whole wheat pasta also contains more fiber which can help to keep blood sugar levels in check.

Will chili raise blood sugar? ›

Some studies have indicated that the consumption of chilli-containing foods can influence iron absorption and affect serum insulin and glucose concentrations, which may help to alleviate diabetes or prediabetes.

Is ricotta cheese good for diabetics? ›

Cheese. Low-fat types like cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, or mozzarella are high-protein choices that help keep your blood sugar in check. Enjoy a quarter-cup of cottage cheese with a half-cup of fruit, a piece of low-fat string cheese, or ricotta spread on whole-grain crackers.

How many carbs should you have each day? ›

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend that carbohydrates make up 45% to 65% of total daily calories. So if you get 2,000 calories a day, between 900 and 1,300 calories should be from carbohydrates. That translates to between 225 and 325 grams of carbs a day.

What can I substitute for lasagna noodles for diabetics? ›

Pasta substitutes like ancient grains or spiraled vegetables are also great options. Eating too many carbs can cause inflammation, weight gain, and higher blood sugars, especially in people with diabetes.

What can I eat if I don't have noodles? ›

Mix up your midweek meal repertoire with these quick yet satisfying recipe ideas that take 30 minutes or fewer.
  • 1'No noodle' chow mein. ...
  • 2Spicy prawn and slaw tacos. ...
  • 3Asian nachos. ...
  • 4Crispy salmon with fennel, pear and cucumber salad. ...
  • 5Pork cutlet with braised lentils. ...
  • 6Pine nut crusted chicken with warm kale salad.

Are no boil lasagna noodles OK? ›

No-boil lasagna noodles aren't just a convenient shortcut to piping-hot lasagna—they're actually way more delicious than the regular, frilly-edged kind you have to cook before using.

Can you use normal noodles for lasagna? ›

Boiling lasagna noodles is really overrated. There really isn't any reason to do it. And you don't need those newfangled "oven ready" noodles. Just let the regular type noodles soak up liquid from the sauce and cook in the oven - Presto!

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Dean Jakubowski Ret

Last Updated:

Views: 6664

Rating: 5 / 5 (70 voted)

Reviews: 85% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Dean Jakubowski Ret

Birthday: 1996-05-10

Address: Apt. 425 4346 Santiago Islands, Shariside, AK 38830-1874

Phone: +96313309894162

Job: Legacy Sales Designer

Hobby: Baseball, Wood carving, Candle making, Jigsaw puzzles, Lacemaking, Parkour, Drawing

Introduction: My name is Dean Jakubowski Ret, I am a enthusiastic, friendly, homely, handsome, zealous, brainy, elegant person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.