There is something incredibly comforting and indulgent about the Cheesy Ground Turkey Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe that makes it a true crowd-pleaser any time of year. This dish brings together lean ground turkey, a velvety white sauce bursting with flavor, and layers of rich cheeses that melt together in perfect harmony. It’s like your favorite Italian restaurant lasagna, but lighter and packed with a fresh twist from the spinach and smooth ricotta. If you’re craving a dinner that feels both special and wholesome, this recipe is about to become your new go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Cheesy Ground Turkey Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe is simple but key to its success. Each component plays a special role, from the lean turkey providing the hearty base to the creamy cheeses creating luscious layers. The fresh spinach adds a burst of color and a subtle earthiness that ties everything together.
- 1.25 lbs ground turkey: Opt for lean turkey like Honeysuckle White to keep the dish healthy without sacrificing flavor.
- 1 onion (finely diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the meat sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic (freshly minced): Gives the dish a fragrant, savory kick.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors into balance.
- 3/4 cup butter: Kerrygold unsalted butter is perfect here for a creamy, rich white sauce.
- 3/4 cup flour: Helps to thicken the white sauce for that perfect smooth texture.
- 3 cups whole milk: Using whole milk creates an ultra-creamy, dreamy sauce.
- 1 tsp mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth to the white sauce.
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg: Just a pinch enhances the sauce’s warmth without overpowering it.
- 2 cups white cheese: Melts beautifully, creating gooey layers in the lasagna.
- 1/2 cup parmesan (freshly grated): Gives a nutty flavor and lovely texture to the cheese blend.
- 6 lasagna noodles: Make sure to boil according to package instructions for perfect tenderness.
- 1 cup ricotta: Galbani brand is ideal for creamy, soft consistency that complements the other cheeses.
- 1/3 cup chopped spinach: Adds freshness, color, and a slight earthy taste in every bite.
- 1.5 cups additional white cheese: For extra cheesy goodness layered throughout the lasagna.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Turkey Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Turkey and Aromatics
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking your finely diced onions until they’re soft and translucent. Then, add the freshly minced garlic and sauté for just a minute until fragrant. Toss in the ground turkey, seasoning with salt and pepper as it browns. Breaking it up with a spatula ensures tender, bite-sized pieces that cook evenly. This flavorful base is crucial for the layers of your lasagna.
Step 2: Prepare the White Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter slowly over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling gently, whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux. Keep stirring for a minute so the flour cooks through but doesn’t brown. Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid any lumps. Add the mustard and nutmeg at this point, letting the sauce simmer until thickened into that irresistible creamy texture. Mixing in the white cheese and freshly grated parmesan off the heat ensures it all melts together perfectly.
Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until just al dente. Overcooked noodles can turn mushy in the oven, so keep a close eye on them! Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set them aside on a lightly oiled surface to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Combine Ricotta and Spinach
In a small bowl, fold together the creamy ricotta cheese with roughly chopped spinach leaves. This mixture adds a lovely burst of color and a velvety texture that contrasts beautifully with the meat sauce and white sauce layers.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna
Spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking. Add a layer of noodles, then a generous helping of the cooked ground turkey mixture, followed by dollops of the ricotta-spinach spread. Cover it all with more white sauce and sprinkle with white cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with a top coat of white sauce and a sprinkle of parmesan for a golden crust.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the lasagna with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes to brown the cheese on top. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes so it sets up and slices beautifully. This gentle wait time is worth every second for the perfect presentation.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Turkey Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley brighten up the rich layers, adding a pop of vibrant green and a fresh herbal aroma. A light dusting of red pepper flakes can also bring a welcome hint of heat if you enjoy a little spice with your cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
A crisp, simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the lasagna nicely, cutting through the creaminess with refreshing acidity. Garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls are also fantastic companions, perfect for soaking up any of the luscious white sauce that escapes onto the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try making individual ramekin portions for a charming, personalized presentation, especially great for dinner parties. You can also layer the ingredients into a lasagna roll-up format, rolling cooked noodles around the filling for elegant handheld servings that are easier to plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator. It will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, during which the flavors meld even further, making every subsequent bite more delicious than the last.
Freezing
This Cheesy Ground Turkey Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Wrap it securely in aluminum foil or a freezer-safe container and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual slices gently, ensuring the sauce stays creamy and the cheese remains melty without drying out.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef for the turkey?
Absolutely! While ground turkey keeps this dish lighter, ground beef will add a richer, heartier flavor if that’s your preference. Just adjust seasoning accordingly.
Do I need to pre-cook the lasagna noodles?
Yes, boiling the noodles until al dente ensures they’ll be tender and absorb just the right amount of sauce without getting mushy in the oven.
Can I make the white sauce ahead of time?
Definitely. Make the white sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before assembling the lasagna to keep it silky smooth.
Is there a way to add more veggies to the recipe?
You can easily mix in sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers with the ground turkey for extra nutrition and flavor.
What cheese works best if I want a different flavor?
Mozzarella is a great substitute for the white cheese if you want a milder melt, or try a blend with provolone for a smokier touch.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Cheesy Ground Turkey Lasagna with White Sauce Recipe feels like handing over a little culinary treasure. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and wholesome with a comforting warmth that feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish promises smiles all around and plenty of happy seconds. Give it a try—you won’t regret bringing this deliciousness into your kitchen!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Cheesy Ground Turkey Lasagna with White Sauce is a comforting and delicious twist on the classic Italian favorite. Featuring lean ground turkey, creamy ricotta, and a rich homemade white sauce enhanced with butter, flour, and milk, this lasagna is packed with layers of cheese and tender noodles. Fresh spinach adds a subtle earthiness, while the combination of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses brings texture and flavor. Perfect for a family meal, this recipe offers a satisfying and hearty dish with a healthier protein option.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1.25 lbs ground turkey (preferably lean)
- 1 onion, finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, freshly minced
- 1/3 cup spinach, roughly chopped into 1/2-inch ribbons
White Sauce
- 3/4 cup butter (unsalted, Kerrygold preferred)
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 2 cups white cheese (such as shredded mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Lasagna Assembly
- 6 lasagna noodles
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (Galbani brand recommended)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the meat mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the finely diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the white sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring constantly. Slowly add the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the mustard and nutmeg for added flavor. Remove from heat and mix in 2 cups of white cheese and the parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Cook the lasagna noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and lay flat on a sheet of parchment or a lightly greased surface to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the lasagna: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of lasagna noodles covering the bottom. Spread half of the ricotta evenly over the noodles. Sprinkle half of the cooked ground turkey mixture and chopped spinach on top. Pour a layer of white sauce over. Repeat the layers ending with noodles topped with the remaining white sauce and 1.5 cups of white cheese evenly spread over the top.
- Bake the lasagna: Cover the baking dish with foil (to prevent cheese from browning too much) and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Allow the lasagna to cool for 10 minutes after baking to set properly. Cut into servings and enjoy warm.
Notes
- For best flavor and texture, use freshly grated parmesan cheese.
- Whole milk in the white sauce yields a richer and creamier texture; low-fat milk can be used for a lighter version.
- To save time, you can prepare the white sauce and meat mixture a day ahead.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute ground turkey with sautéed mushrooms and additional spinach.
- The nutmeg in the white sauce adds a subtle warmth; omit if undesired.
- Letting the lasagna rest before serving helps the layers set and makes serving cleaner.
