Lean and Cheesy Veggie-Packed Lasagna

WW Watch Your Weight Lasagna With Meat Sauce

Recipe Overview:

• Name: WW Watch Your Weight Lasagna With Meat Sauce
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Description: Enjoy a delicious, lighter version of lasagna packed with lean ground beef, vegetables, and cheeses, perfect for those watching their weight.
• Recipe Category: European
• Keywords: Oven, < 4 Hours

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 287.2
• Fat Content: 9g
• Saturated Fat Content: 3.1g
• Cholesterol Content: 27.5mg
• Sodium Content: 674.8mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 36g
• Fiber Content: 2.1g
• Sugar Content: 12.7g
• Protein Content: 15.3g

Ingredients:

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 1 tsp fennel seed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup fat-free ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup pecorino romano cheese, grated

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lasagna Noodles:

   • Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions.
   • Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.

2. Toast and Grind Fennel Seeds:

   • Toast the fennel seeds in a small dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until lightly browned and fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).
   • Be careful not to burn them.
   • Remove from the pan and grind into a powder.

3. Prepare the Meat Sauce:

   • Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add olive oil, then add ground beef, chopped onion, red bell pepper, and diced zucchini.
   • Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and vegetables are tender.
   • Stir in the marinara sauce and ground fennel seeds.
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened and flavors blend.

4. Assemble the Lasagna:

   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Spread one-fourth of the meat sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
   • Top with 3 lasagna noodles.
   • Spread 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese evenly over the noodles.
   • Repeat the layering process twice, ending with a layer of meat sauce on top.

5. Bake the Lasagna:

   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated romano cheese evenly over the top.
   • Bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheeses are lightly browned.

6. Serve:

   • Let the lasagna stand for about 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
   • Slice and serve warm.

This WW Watch Your Weight Lasagna With Meat Sauce recipe is a wholesome and satisfying dish that combines the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna with healthier ingredients. It’s perfect for a family dinner or when you’re entertaining guests, providing a delicious option that everyone will enjoy without the guilt.