Lasagna is a classic comfort food, but if you’re following a Weight Watchers plan, you may be hesitant to indulge in its cheesy goodness. Fear not! I’ve got a Weight Watchers-friendly lasagna recipe that not only satisfies your cravings but also fits seamlessly into your points system. What’s even better? You can effortlessly whip it up in your Instant Pot for a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Ingredients Needed:

Part-Skim Ricotta Cheese: Opt for cottage cheese if you prefer, and for a sodium-conscious choice, strain and blend it to eliminate any chunkiness.

Italian Cheese Blend: Alternatively, you can use mozzarella cheese. The blend adds a delightful mix of flavors.

Crushed Tomatoes: Stick to crushed tomatoes to avoid a watery lasagna; diced tomatoes may alter the texture.

Dry Spices: Oregano, thyme, parsley, black pepper, and onion powder come together to infuse the dish with aromatic goodness.

Garlic: Fresh minced garlic cloves are recommended for a more vibrant flavor.

Whole Wheat Lasagna Noodles: For a healthier twist, opt for whole wheat noodles. They might be a bit elusive, but ordering online is a convenient solution.

Fat-Free Ground Turkey: Choose lean ground turkey for a points-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Spinach: Fresh spinach, not frozen or canned, adds a nutritional boost.

Tip: To cook lasagna directly in the Instant Pot inner pot, spray it with oil, and add 1/2 cup of water to the bottom.

How to Make WW Lasagna in the Instant Pot:

A Step-by-Step Guide

Prepare Your Fillings: Combine ¾ cup of Italian cheese with ricotta, reserving the last ¼ cup for the top. In a separate bowl, mix crushed tomatoes, oregano, thyme, parsley, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic.

Build Your Layers: Start by coating the bottom of a 7-inch Instant Pot-safe pan with sauce. Layer lasagna noodles, followed by a thin layer of cheese mixture, ground turkey, and spinach.

Repeat the Process: Continue layering until all ingredients are used. Top the lasagna with the reserved ¼ cup of Italian cheese and cover it tightly with aluminum foil.

Prepare Your Pot: Place a trivet in the Instant Pot insert, add 2 cups of water, and carefully lower the lasagna onto the trivet.

Pressure Cook: Close and lock the lid, set the pressure valve to sealing, and select Pressure Cook (high pressure) for 35 minutes.

Release Pressure: Allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 15 minutes. Once the pressure valve drops, remove the lid. Optionally, broil the lasagna in the oven to brown the top.

How to Make WW Lasagna in the Oven:

Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 350º.

Build Your Lasagna: Follow the same layering instructions as for the Instant Pot, using a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes.

Recipe Notes:

Create a foil sling for easy raising and lowering of your dish.

Spray the underside of the foil to prevent sticking.

Substitute lean ground beef or Italian turkey sausage, adjusting WW points accordingly.

Use fresh spinach, as frozen tends to release too much liquid.

Raw or cooked ground turkey can be used; ensure thin pieces if raw.

Adjust layer thickness according to preference; points remain consistent with listed ingredients.

Reheating Tip: Microwave covered for 1:30-2 minutes.

Optional Enhancements: Fresh basil between layers, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes for serving (recalculate points if added).

Weight Watchers Points Breakdown: Balancing Taste and Nutrition

This lasagna, tailored for weight loss, strikes a perfect balance with whole grains, veggies, and moderate fat. With six generous servings, the points per serving are: 6 Blue Plan Points | 7 Green Plan Points | 3 Purple Plan Points | 2023 Points: 6. Counts are based on using 99% fat-free turkey, whole wheat lasagna noodles, reduced-fat Italian cheese blend, and part-skim ricotta.