Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This spinach and ricotta lasagna is a perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors. The rich ricotta cheese pairs beautifully with fresh spinach, all layered between sheets of soft pasta and topped with a melty mozzarella cheese. It’s a delicious twist on the traditional lasagna, making it ideal for vegetarians and cheese lovers alike. This dish is filling and comforting, perfect for a family dinner or even for meal prepping throughout the week.

Ingredients

• 12 lasagna noodles

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (10 oz) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry

• 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese

• 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 egg

• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.

4. Stir in the spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.

5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked spinach mixture and mix until well combined.

6. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

7. Lay down 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then spoon more marinara sauce on top. Repeat the layers: noodles, ricotta mixture, and sauce.

8. Finish by topping with the remaining noodles, sauce, and mozzarella cheese.

9. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

10. Let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people.

• Prep time: 20 minutes

• Cook time: 40 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add Meat: If you prefer a meatier lasagna, add cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage to the marinara sauce for an added layer of flavor.

• Swap Sauces: Instead of marinara, use a béchamel or alfredo sauce for a richer, creamier lasagna.

• Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for more texture and nutrition.

• Use Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese combinations like goat cheese or fontina to alter the flavor profile of the lasagna.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: This lasagna freezes well. To freeze, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

How do I prevent my lasagna from being too watery?

Ensure you squeeze all the moisture out of the spinach before adding it to the ricotta mixture. Also, be careful not to overload the lasagna with sauce. A thin layer of sauce is often enough to keep everything moist.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh spinach. Simply sauté it until wilted and then squeeze out any excess moisture before using it in the ricotta mixture.

How can I make this lasagna gluten-free?

To make this lasagna gluten-free, use gluten-free lasagna noodles. Ensure all other ingredients, like the marinara sauce and cheeses, are free from gluten.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese for ricotta. However, it will create a slightly different texture. Drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

How do I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Is spinach and ricotta lasagna healthy?

This lasagna can be considered a healthy option, especially if you use whole wheat noodles or add additional vegetables. The spinach provides a good dose of vitamins and minerals.

Can I add extra cheese to the recipe?

Yes, feel free to add more cheese if you prefer a cheesier lasagna. Just remember that more cheese will make it richer and higher in calories.

How do I know when the lasagna is fully cooked?

The lasagna is ready when the cheese is golden and bubbling, and the noodles are tender. Letting it sit for 10 minutes after baking helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice.

Can I make this lasagna in a smaller dish?

Yes, you can adjust the size of the dish. You may need to reduce the cooking time if you use a smaller dish.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, you can replace the ricotta with a plant-based cheese alternative, use vegan mozzarella, and omit the egg or use a flax egg instead.

Conclusion

This spinach and ricotta lasagna is a delicious and satisfying meal that will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s perfect for vegetarians, cheese lovers, and anyone who loves a comforting meal. With its creamy ricotta, savory spinach, and melted mozzarella, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you make it for dinner tonight or prep it ahead for later, this lasagna is sure to impress.