Serves 4-6  |  Prep time:  30 minutes  |  Cook Time: 4-6 hours

Recipe by Mariah Reil, MS, RD, LN


-1 lb lean, Reil Ranch grass-fed ground beef

-1 onion, diced

-2 cloves garlic, minced

-2 cans (~14 oz each) tomato sauce

-2 tsp Italian seasoning

-1 lb whole wheat lasagna noodles (or noodle alternative, such as lentil or chickpea noodles)

-1 cup low fat cottage cheese

-1 tbsp parsley

-1 egg, beaten

-1-2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

-1/2 cup water


  1. In a large skillet, brown Reil ranch grass-fed beef with the onion and garlic. Drain any excess liquid. Add one of the cans of tomato sauce and 1 tsp Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
  2. In a small bowl, pour the tomato sauce and mix in remaining tsp of Italian seasoning.
  3. Spray the interior of a crockpot or slow cooker with cooking spray. To the bottom, spread a layer of the meat sauce. Add a layer of lasagna noodles (you may need to break them to fit in nicely). 
  4. In a bowl, combine cottage cheese, parsley, and egg.  Spread this mixture on top of the lasagna noodles. Next, sprinkle a layer of mozzarella. Repeat in order: meat sauce, noodles, cottage cheese mixture, mozzarella, until no more remaining or crockpot is full.
  5. Pour the remaining tomato sauce on top of the noodles and sprinkle with mozzarella. Pour water along the sides of the slow cooker- making sure lasagna is well moist. 
  6. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Slice and enjoy! 

Protein is an important macronutrient that the body needs to function properly. Protein plays an important role in synthesizing and repairing muscle, while also helping us stay full and satisfied after a meal. Protein contains amino acids, which are essential for bodily functions. However, not all protein-containing foods contain all of the amino acids we need. Beef is a great source of complete protein, which means it contains all of the essential amino acids that the body cannot make on its own. Choose grass-fed beef for a great source of complete protein to nourish your muscles and your body! 

November 09, 2020