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RECIPE: High-Protein Beef “Lasagna” Bowl

In our latest Lazy Girl high-protein recipe, we've reimagined lasagna as a quick, cozy bowl that's ready in half the time, with half the effort and double the protein!

· By Liza Graves
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A plate of pasta shells in a rich tomato sauce with ground meat resembles a deconstructed lasagna, topped with creamy ricotta cheese and a fresh basil leaf. A spoon is on the plate.Pin
Welcome back to my high-protein Lazy Girl recipe series, where each recipe delivers at least 30 grams of protein (though I aim for 40-50 grams) while staying under 600 calories. Today’s recipe packs an impressive 55 grams of protein at just 520 calories, and you can easily adjust portions if you would prefer less. Unlike many high-protein recipes, I always emphasize getting plenty of fiber, too. Along this recipe journey, I’ve discovered some great protein hacks. One favorite is using Banza pasta, made from chickpeas, which already has impressive protein content. For an extra boost, try cooking it in chicken bone broth until the liquid is absorbed. While I didn’t use this technique in today’s recipe, I have many times, and it’s perfect when you’re craving buttery noodles but want to stay gluten-free and protein-rich!
Now, for today’s comfort food makeover: a deconstructed lasagna that delivers all the flavor without the fuss. Think of it as a heartier, protein-packed version of lasagna soup using both cottage cheese and ricotta. I’m not sure about you, but for me, the comfort level rises whenever a meal can be eaten with a spoon and is warm. Except for ice cream – it can be cold and is just as comforting.
A bowl of shell pasta with rich tomato sauce, high-protein ground meat, and a dollop of ricotta cheese topped with a basil leaf. It's reminiscent of lasagna in flavor. A spoon rests on the side.Pin
Comfort in a bowl! This Lasagna Beef Bowl is filled with protein and super easy to make. Image: Liza Graves

Staples to Always Have On-Hand

As I mentioned in previous Lazy Girl recipes, building a well-stocked kitchen is key to effortless meal preparation. It’s not just about following recipes — it’s about having reliable ingredients that let you cook intuitively and adapt to what’s available seasonally.

For protein- and fiber-rich meals like this deconstructed lasagna, here are the staples I recommend having at the ready:

  • Banza pasta
  • Cottage Cheese
  • Fire & Kettle bone broth
  • San Marzano tomatoes
A plate of pasta shells in a rich tomato sauce with ground meat resembles a deconstructed lasagna, topped with creamy ricotta cheese and a fresh basil leaf. A spoon is on the plate.Pin

High Protein 'Lasagna' Beef Bowl

Liza GravesLiza Graves
This deconstructed lasagna combines the comfort of classic lasagna with higher protein and less effort. Using protein-rich Banza pasta (made from chickpeas), a flavorful blend of cheeses, and minimal prep work, this cozy bowl delivers 55 grams of protein in just one serving. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it satisfies both comfort food cravings and nutritional goals.
5 from 2 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 518 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box Banza pasta shells
  • 1 lb 93% lean ground beef
  • 1 14 oz can San Marzano tomatoes
  • 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
  • 2 cups chicken bone broth (Fire & Kettle brand recommended)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 10 fresh basil leaves (plus garnish if desired)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Pasta: Cook Banza pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • Prepare the Sauce Base: In a blender, combine the can of San Marzano tomatoes, low-fat cottage cheese, and chicken bone broth. Blend until smooth. Set aside.
  • Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (about 7-8 minutes). Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove excess fat if necessary.
  • Sauté Aromatics: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Stir in the dried oregano.
  • Combine the Sauce, Beef, and Pasta: Pour the blended tomato and cottage cheese mixture into the skillet with the beef and pasta. Simmer on low-medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will reduce the liquid portion as it absorbs into the pasta. Add the chopped basil and season to taste with salt and pepper.
  • Serve and Garnish: Divide the pasta into four servings. Top each serving with 1/4 cup of ricotta cheese and garnish with additional fresh basil, if desired.

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If you are looking for more high-protein recipes that are easy to make, check out our Lazy Girl recipe article. We are keeping track of these throughout 2025. At the end of the year, we’ll have at least 24 recipes here, as we’re adding two each month!
Liza Graves

Liza Graves

As CEO of StyleBlueprint, Liza also regularly writes for SB. Most of her writing is now found in the recipe archives as cooking is her stress relief!

See all articles by Liza Graves
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2 thoughts on “RECIPE: High-Protein Beef “Lasagna” Bowl”

  1. Jenna Bratcher Jenna Bratcher says:
    February 21, 2025 at 8:38 am

    5 stars
    So cozy!

  2. Avatar noneya says:
    August 24, 2026 at 9:40 am

    5 stars
    Easy and delicious.

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