Mason Jar Zucchini Lasagna

If you’re looking for a creative, healthy twist on a classic comfort food, look no further than this Mason Jar Zucchini Lasagna! Not only is this dish a feast for the eyes, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. Layers of fresh zucchini, savory ground turkey, and creamy ricotta come together in a charming mason jar, making it perfect for meal prep or an impressive dinner party. Grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely become a family favorite.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Mason Jar Zucchini Lasagna is a delightful way to enjoy all the flavors of traditional lasagna without the heavy pasta. It’s ideal for those looking to reduce carbs or simply incorporate more vegetables into their meals. Not to mention, the individual jars make serving easy and fun! You can customize each jar according to personal preferences, and the presentation is just too cute to resist. Plus, this dish is perfectly portioned for lunch or dinner, making it a great option for meal prep.

What’s in the Bowl

This recipe calls for some wholesome ingredients that blend perfectly together. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 large zucchini
• 2 teaspoons salt, divided
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound 99% lean ground turkey
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Freshly ground pepper, to taste
• 6 tablespoons canned tomato sauce
• 6 tablespoons crushed tomatoes
• 8 ounces low-fat ricotta cheese
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 cup parsley, minced
• 1 cup grated part-skim mozzarella cheese, lightly packed (4 ounces)
• 4 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 (8-ounce) mason jars

Prep & Cook Tools

Before we get cooking, let’s gather the necessary tools. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mason jars (4 x 8-ounce)
• Large skillet for sautéing
• Knife and cutting board for prepping vegetables
• Mixing bowls for combining ingredients
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula for stirring
• Oven-safe dish for baking (if not using jars)

Cooking Mason Jar Zucchini Lasagna: The Process

Now that we have everything ready, let’s jump into the step-by-step process of making this delicious Mason Jar Zucchini Lasagna.

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Start by slicing the zucchini into thin, even strips. You can use a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness. Once sliced, sprinkle the zucchini strips with 1 teaspoon of salt and allow them to sit for about 15 minutes. This will draw out excess moisture, preventing a watery lasagna.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Mixture

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Next, add the ground turkey, Italian seasoning, dried oregano, and pepper. Cook until the turkey is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the canned tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes, mixing well. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Ricotta Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg yolk, and minced parsley. Mix until fully combined and creamy. Set this mixture aside as well.

Step 4: Assemble the Jars

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). To assemble the Mason Jar Zucchini Lasagna, start with a layer of zucchini strips at the bottom of each jar. Follow with a layer of the turkey mixture, then a dollop of the ricotta mixture. Sprinkle some mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat the layers until the jars are filled, finishing with a layer of zucchini, a little more turkey mixture, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

Place the assembled mason jars in a baking dish and add a bit of water to the bottom of the dish to create steam while baking. Cover the entire dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, let the jars cool for a few minutes before digging in. Serve directly from the jars for a fun and rustic presentation!

Substitutions by Category

If you’re missing any ingredients or looking to customize the recipe, consider these substitutions:

• Protein: Swap ground turkey for ground chicken or lean beef.
• Cheese: Use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a different texture.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can replace dried Italian seasoning.
• Vegetables: Add spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Testing Timeline

Here’s a quick overview of how long each step takes:

• Preparing zucchini: 15 minutes
• Cooking turkey mixture: 10 minutes
• Making ricotta mixture: 5 minutes
• Assembling jars: 10 minutes
• Baking: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes

Prep Ahead & Store

You can easily prep Mason Jar Zucchini Lasagna ahead of time. Here are some tips:

• Assemble the jars a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
• The assembled lasagna can also be frozen. Just make sure to use freezer-safe mason jars.
• To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Reader Q&A

Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! You can use eggplant or bell peppers for a different take on this lasagna. Just make sure to slice them thinly and follow the same salting process to draw out moisture.

How long does the leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground turkey and add more vegetables, like spinach, mushrooms, or even lentils for protein.

What can I serve with Mason Jar Zucchini Lasagna?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish. You can also serve it with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor.

Don’t Miss These

If you love Mason Jar Zucchini Lasagna, be sure to check out these delicious recipes:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction for more mouthwatering desserts.
• Pinch of Yum for fantastic meal prep ideas.
• Minimalist Baker for simple, plant-based recipes.

That’s a Wrap

This Mason Jar Zucchini Lasagna is not just a meal; it’s an experience. It combines the joy of cooking with the satisfaction of eating something both comforting and healthy. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or prepping meals for the week, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy. With its layers of flavor and delightful presentation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the magic of Mason Jar Zucchini Lasagna!