Carnivore Lasagna – Hearty Low Carb Meat Lasagna Without Pasta

Carnivore Lasagna brings all the comfort of traditional lasagna without the pasta. This rich, layered dish swaps noodles for sheets of melted cheese and stacks them with seasoned meat and creamy ricotta. If you crave a satisfying dinner that fits your carnivore lifestyle, this recipe delivers bold flavor and hearty texture in every bite. Unlike classic versions, this pasta-free creation keeps carbs low while staying filling and family-friendly.

Story 

I first made Carnivore Lasagna when I wanted something deeply comforting without stepping away from a strict low-carb routine. Traditional lasagna always felt like the ultimate comfort dish, yet the pasta never aligned with a carnivore or keto focus. So instead of noodles, I layered cheese slices between rich meat and creamy ricotta, and the result completely changed how I approach comfort food.

This Carnivore Lasagna quickly became a staple in my kitchen. It satisfies cravings for a low carb meat lasagna while keeping ingredients simple and protein-forward. Because it relies entirely on meat and dairy, it also works beautifully as a keto lasagna recipe that feels indulgent without hidden carbs. Every layer melts together into what many describe as the ultimate cheese and meat bake, and you truly never miss the pasta.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ lbs (680 g) ground beef (or beef + pork mix)

  • ½ lb (225 g) ground Italian sausage (optional, for flavor)

  • 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese

  • 1 large egg

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 8–10 mozzarella or provolone cheese slices (for “noodles”)

  • 2 tbsp butter or beef tallow

  • 1 tsp sea salt (to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by melting butter or beef tallow in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and sausage, then cook until fully browned and crumbled. Stir consistently so the meat cooks evenly and develops rich flavor. Season lightly with sea salt and optional pepper. Once browned, remove the skillet from heat and set the meat aside.

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the grated Parmesan. Whisk until the mixture turns smooth and creamy. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or tallow.

Cooking Instructions

Spread a thin layer of the meat mixture across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Lay cheese slices on top to form the first “noodle” layer. Add a layer of the ricotta mixture, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella over it. Continue layering meat, cheese slices, ricotta mixture, and shredded mozzarella until you use all ingredients. Finish with mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan on top.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until the top turns bubbling and golden. Allow the Carnivore Lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing so the layers hold together neatly.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid overloading each layer with ricotta, since too much moisture can cause the lasagna to slide apart when sliced. Also, drain excess grease from the browned meat if necessary, because too much fat at the bottom may make the dish heavy. Letting the lasagna rest after baking remains essential, as slicing too soon disrupts clean layers.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Use a beef and pork blend if you want deeper richness. Full-fat dairy produces the best texture, so avoid low-fat substitutions. If you prefer a sharper finish, add extra Parmesan on top before serving. For those seeking a richer pasta free Lasagna, try provolone slices for a slightly stronger cheese flavor.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Carnivore Lasagna warm with a final sprinkle of Parmesan. Because this dish stands on its own, it works perfectly as a main course. Slice into even portions for clean presentation and satisfying servings that feel substantial without any pasta.

Carnivore Lasagna

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to two months. Reheat at 350°F until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Conclusion

Carnivore Lasagna proves that comfort food does not require pasta to feel complete. By layering meat, ricotta, and melted cheese, you create a deeply satisfying dish that fits both carnivore and keto lifestyles. Try this recipe once, and it may quickly replace traditional lasagna in your weekly rotation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Carnivore Lasagna ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the Carnivore Lasagna up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, place it directly in the preheated oven and follow the baking instructions.

Can I use only ground beef?

Absolutely. Using only ground beef creates a classic flavor profile. Adding sausage simply increases richness and depth.

Can I substitute ricotta cheese?

Yes. You can replace ricotta with mascarpone or cream cheese for a thicker and richer texture while keeping the dish fully carnivore-friendly.

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Carnivore Lasagna

Carnivore Lasagna


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  • Author: Lily Thompson
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This meat based carnivore lasagna swaps pasta for layers of cheese, seasoned meat, and ricotta for a hearty, low-carb comfort dish perfect for keto and carnivore lifestyles.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground Italian sausage
  • 2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 810 mozzarella or provolone slices
  • 2 tbsp butter or beef tallow
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Melt butter or beef tallow in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add ground beef and sausage and cook until browned and crumbled.
  3. Season with salt and optional pepper and set aside.
  4. In a bowl combine ricotta, egg, and half the Parmesan and whisk until smooth.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  6. Spread a thin layer of meat mixture in the dish.
  7. Add a layer of cheese slices.
  8. Spread a layer of ricotta mixture.
  9. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top.
  10. Repeat layers until ingredients are used finishing with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.
  11. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  12. Remove foil and bake 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  13. Rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  1. Assemble up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.
  2. Store in refrigerator up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months.
  3. Reheat at 350°F until warmed through.
  4. Swap ricotta with mascarpone or cream cheese if desired.
  5. Use all beef or mix with pork sausage for richer flavor.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Main Dishes
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 820mg
  • Fat: 48g
  • Saturated Fat: 22g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 42g
  • Cholesterol: 185mg

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