Keto Lasagna with Cheese Noodles – A Low-Carb Delight

Welcome to a savory and satisfying dish that combines the classic flavors of lasagna with a keto-friendly twist. Our Keto Lasagna with Cheese Noodles offers the rich, comforting taste of traditional lasagna while keeping your carbohydrate intake low. This recipe uses cheese as a substitute for traditional pasta, resulting in a creamy, cheesy, and hearty meal that adheres to both keto and low-carb dietary guidelines. Below is a detailed guide to creating this delicious lasagna, complete with instructions, nutritional information, and tips for optimizing your meal.

Ingredients:

For the Cheese Noodles:

  • 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
    Note: Use full-fat mozzarella cheese for a richer flavor and better texture. Ensure the cheese is finely shredded to help it melt evenly.
  • 2 large eggs
    Note: Acts as a binder to hold the cheese together and give the noodles structure.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    Note: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor to the cheese mixture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    Note: Enhances the overall flavor of the cheese noodles.

For the Meat Sauce:

  • 1 lb ground beef
    Note: Opt for lean beef to reduce fat content. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
  • 1/2 lb Italian sausage
    Note: Provides additional flavor to the sauce. Use a mild or spicy variety depending on your preference.
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
    Note: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    Note: Infuses the sauce with a robust garlic flavor.
  • 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
    Note: Provides the base for the sauce. Opt for no-sugar-added varieties to keep the carb count low.
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
    Note: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
    Note: Adds an aromatic herbaceous note.
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
    Note: Complements the oregano and enhances the Italian flavor profile.
  • Salt and pepper to taste
    Note: Adjust seasoning to suit your taste.

For the Lasagna Assembly:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
    Note: Used to layer between the cheese noodles and meat sauce.
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
    Note: Adds creaminess and richness to the lasagna.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    Note: Sprinkled on top for a crispy, golden finish.

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Cheese Noodles:
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • In a large bowl, combine 4 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese with 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Mix until well incorporated.
  • Spread the cheese mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet, forming a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, cut the cheese sheet into lasagna-sized “noodles.”
  1. Prepare Meat Sauce:
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb of ground beef and 1/2 lb of Italian sausage until browned. Break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks.
  • Add 1 finely chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Stir in 1 can of crushed tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 tablespoon of dried oregano, and 1 tablespoon of dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Simmer the sauce over low heat for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
  1. Assemble Lasagna:
  • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
  • Place a layer of cheese noodles over the meat sauce. Arrange them so that they slightly overlap.
  • Spread 1 cup of ricotta cheese over the cheese noodles, then sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
  • Repeat the layering process: add another layer of meat sauce, followed by cheese noodles, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese.
  • Finish with a final layer of meat sauce and sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
  1. Bake:
  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if not already preheated.
  • Bake the assembled lasagna for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  • Allow the lasagna to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
  1. Serve and Enjoy:
  • Cut the lasagna into generous portions and serve warm. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Based on 8 Servings):

  • Calories: Approximately 400
  • Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 130mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Net Carbs: 8g
  • Protein: 25g

Weight Watchers SmartPoints:

  • Blue Plan: 10 SmartPoints
  • Green Plan: 11 SmartPoints
  • Purple Plan: 8 SmartPoints

Note: SmartPoints values are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and specific types used. Always double-check the values with your WW app or program.

Tips and Variations:

  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef and Italian sausage with a mixture of sautéed vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach for a delicious vegetarian lasagna.
  • Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Make-Ahead: This lasagna can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Storage and Reheating:

  • Storage: Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: To freeze, cool the lasagna completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

Conclusion

Our Keto Lasagna with Cheese Noodles offers a delightful alternative to traditional lasagna, perfect for those adhering to a keto or low-carb diet. With its layers of cheesy goodness and rich, flavorful meat sauce, this dish provides the comfort and satisfaction of classic lasagna without the carbs. Enjoy this low-carb masterpiece with your family and friends, knowing you’re serving a meal that is both delicious and aligned with your dietary goals. Happy cooking!