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Best Vegetarian Lasagna Recipe

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4.2 from 85 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Best Vegetarian Lasagna recipe features layers of rich tomato sauce, sautéed vegetables, creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella cheeses, and perfectly cooked lasagna noodles baked to golden, bubbly perfection. With aromatic herbs and a mix of zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach, this lasagna offers a hearty, comforting vegetarian meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Tomato Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Vegetable Filling

  • 1 large zucchini, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

Cheese Mixture

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg (optional, for mixing with ricotta)

Other

  • 9–12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
  • Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant to create the flavorful base for the sauce.
  2. Add tomatoes and seasonings: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Mix in dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Simmer the sauce: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors. Adjust seasoning at the end and stir in fresh basil if using for added freshness.
  4. Prepare the vegetables: While the sauce simmers, heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the zucchini and mushrooms for 5-7 minutes until softened and lightly browned, enhancing their flavor and texture. Set aside.
  5. Cook the spinach: If using fresh spinach, sauté it for 2-3 minutes until wilted. If using frozen, ensure it’s thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the lasagna layers.
  6. Cook the noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions if using traditional noodles. Drain and set aside, ready for layering. For no-boil noodles, skip this step.
  7. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for baking the assembled lasagna.
  8. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Add the egg if desired for a creamier texture. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  9. Assemble the lasagna: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer lasagna noodles over the sauce, then spread a portion of the ricotta cheese mixture. Add sautéed vegetables over the cheese, followed by more tomato sauce.
  10. Build layers: Repeat the layers of noodles, ricotta mixture, vegetables, and sauce. Finish with a final layer of noodles topped with sauce and the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
  11. Bake the lasagna: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
  12. Rest and serve: Let the lasagna rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow it to set. Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve with garlic bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Notes

  • You can use no-boil lasagna noodles to skip the boiling step and save time.
  • Adding the egg to the ricotta mixture is optional but gives a richer, creamier texture to the layers.
  • If you prefer a spicier sauce, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
  • Sautéing the vegetables beforehand removes excess moisture and prevents a watery lasagna.
  • Letting the lasagna rest before slicing helps it hold its shape when served.
  • Use fresh basil garnish for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

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Find it online: https://therecipeshome.com/best-vegetarian-lasagna-recipe/