Ingredients

1 lb ground turkey
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
15 ounces ricotta cheese
2 cups Italian cheese blend , shredded
1 package frozen spinach , thawed and squeezed dry
12 lasagna noodles , uncooked , broken in half
1 jar chunky garden combination pasta sauce
1/2 cup water
parmesan cheese , grated ( optional )
Lasagna is a beloved dish around the world, and this Spicy Turkey Lasagna is a great twist on the classic recipe. Ground turkey is a leaner alternative to beef, and the spice adds a kick to the meal. The spinach and cheese mixture adds a healthy balance of nutrients, and cooking it all in the crock pot saves valuable time in the kitchen. This recipe is perfect for a hearty family meal or as a make-ahead dish for busy weeknights.

Instructions

1.In a skillet, cook ground turkey with dried oregano, salt, and red pepper flakes until no longer pink.
2.In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, Italian cheese blend, and thawed spinach.
3.Spread a layer of pasta sauce on the bottom of the crock pot, then layer half of the lasagna noodles on top.
4.Add half of the turkey mixture, followed by half of the cheese mixture.
5.Repeat layers with the remaining ingredients, ending with a layer of pasta sauce on top.
6.Pour 1/2 cup of water around the edges of the crock pot.
7.Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
8.Once cooked, sprinkle with parmesan cheese on top and serve.

PROS

This lasagna is packed with protein from the turkey and cheese, and the spinach adds a healthy dose of vegetables.

Cooking it in the crock pot saves time and creates a delicious, easy-to-prepare meal.

CONS

Lasagna does tend to be higher in calories, and this recipe may be spicier than some people prefer.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The turkey in this recipe is a lean protein source, and spinach is a nutrient-dense vegetable. Tomatoes in the pasta sauce contain lycopene, an antioxidant that may help lower risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
This recipe can be made healthier by choosing a low-sugar pasta sauce and avoiding excess cheese.

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