
Introduction
About this Recipe
You may not be able to tolerate (all) pasta after bariatric surgery. Not only does a traditional lasagna potentially sits like a brick in your small stomach – it may even cause more serious digestive issues.
We’re not saying that you should avoid pasta, or any carbs for that matter. What we’re saying is that sometimes, all you need is a little bit of creativity to dodge those post-op digestive irks like a bariatric ninja would do.
And these dough-less lasagna muffins might just be what you were looking for all along!

Yields:
9 muffins (photo shows 6)
Ready In:
30 minutes
Nutritional facts per MUFFIN:
140 calories
11.5 g protein
9.7 g fat
1.6 g carbs
0.3 g fiber
Ingredients
- 8 oz (220 g) lean ground beef
- 1 cup (200 ml) smooth marinara sauce
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup (200 g) ricotta cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 tbsp shredded cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp scallions, finely chopped
If you’re on soft foods: These lasagna muffins are potentially great for the soft foods stage. Omit the scallions. And substitute the ground beef for ground chicken or ground turkey if you can’t tolerate beef (yet). Use smooth marinara sauce instead of chunky marinara sauce. Also, take a close look at the other ingredients to see if you’re allowed to have them yet. This can be different per surgical center.
Substitute the ground beef for shredded tofu for a vegetarian variety.
Add toppings like jalapeños, diced avocado and shredded mozzarella to boost the flavor!
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1
In a skillet add the ground beef, onion powder, paprika powder and garlic powder, cook until no longer red.
Step 2
Add the marinara sauce and stir well, about 2 minuted more. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3
In a mixing bowl, add the eggs and the ricotta cheese. Mix until well combined.
Step 4
Stir in the grated cheese until well combined.
Step 5
In a 9-mold muffin tray add the ricotta mixture.
Step 6
Divide the beef-mixture over the muffin molds.
Step 7
Finish with adding grated cheese on top of the beef-mixture.
Step 8
Place the muffin tray in a preheated oven on 350F (180C), about 15 minutes.
Step 9
Top with chopped scallions.
Omelet “Pizza”
Craving pizza but need a bariatric friendly meal instead? Why not try this omelet “pizza”?
Goat Cheese Bake
We know…we know. Goat cheese isn’t exactly the most lean cheese there is. But balance is key. Moderation is key. The savory flavor of this dish won’t disappoint!
Ricotta Bake
It’s like having pizza – but then the bariatric friendly way! The rich flavors of ricotta and marinara sauce won’t disappoint!
Sauerkraut & Chicken Sausage
Did you know that sauerkraut is a probiotic food that can support gut health after bariatric surgery? Let’s dive in this one-serving mini meal!
Loaded Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes after bariatric surgery? Yes! Topped with 3 layers of high-protein foods – this dish is a winner!
Bariatric Meal & Snack Box
Don’t know what to pack for lunch? Why not try this egg-bite lunch box providing you with all the nutrients to get you through the day!
Egg Bites
Who doesn’t want a quick simple snack? Whether you’re having this as a mini-meal for breakfast or on-the-go. These egg bites are a winner for sure!
Spinach & Ricotta Dip
A perfect dish to meet your protein goals during the soft foods stage. Don’t forget to save this recipe for another day!
Mini Zucchini Pizzas
These mini-pizzas have all the flavor you’d expect, but without worrying about the “doughy” base of a regular pizza!
Sweet Potato Ricotta Frittata
These wonderful soft-textured frittatas are a real treat. And they’re nutritious too!