Lasagna in a Bowl is a quick, low-carb twist on the classic Italian dish, perfect for when you’re craving the comforting flavors of lasagna without the fuss of layering and baking. This easy, cheesy dish combines seasoned ground beef, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, all layered in a bowl and heated until bubbly. It’s a versatile meal that can be customized with your choice of vegetables like zucchini noodles or broccoli, making it a satisfying option for both weeknight dinners and meal prep.

Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce (Rao’s is a great low-carb option)
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta (Polly-O is recommended for a low-carb version)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: Zucchini noodles or steamed/sautéed broccoli
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain off any excess fat. Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.
2. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt. Stir until well blended. This mixture will add creamy richness to each bowl, reminiscent of traditional lasagna.
3. Assemble the Bowls:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, start by layering any optional vegetables like zucchini noodles or broccoli at the bottom. These add a nutritious base and a bit of crunch to the dish.
- Next, add 1/4 of the cooked beef, followed by 1/4 cup of marinara or pizza sauce.
- Spoon about 1/4 cup of the ricotta mixture over the sauce, spreading it out evenly.
- Finally, top with 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. Heat and Serve:
- Place the assembled bowl in the microwave and heat in 1-minute intervals until the cheese is melted and bubbly, typically 2-3 minutes. The layers should be hot and melded together.
- If desired, sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips:
- Vegetables: Zucchini noodles or steamed broccoli are great low-carb options, but you can also use sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or any other favorite veggies.
- Microwave Heating: Heating in short intervals prevents the cheese from overheating and ensures even melting.
- Meal Prep: These bowls can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Simply microwave when ready to eat.
- Variations: Try adding cooked Italian sausage or ground turkey for a different flavor profile. You can also mix in some fresh basil or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added spice.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side salad or a slice of garlic bread for a more complete meal.
- Pair with a glass of red wine to elevate your dining experience.
- For a heartier option, you can add a layer of cooked pasta or use a larger portion of vegetables.
Lasagna in a Bowl is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy all the flavors of traditional lasagna without the time-consuming preparation. Perfect for busy nights, this dish is sure to become a favorite go-to recipe!
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