If you’re looking for a dish that’ll gather everyone around the table and fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas, this Spinach Lasagna is a sure winner. Cheesy, hearty, and bursting with layers of savory marinara, creamy ricotta, tender spinach, and golden, melty mozzarella, it’s the kind of meal that makes even veggie skeptics reach for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, prepping meals for the week, or just want to treat yourself to oven-baked comfort, Spinach Lasagna promises pure satisfaction—no meat required!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about what you’ll need to bring this masterpiece to life. These simple ingredients work together beautifully; each one delivers flavor, texture, or that irresistible cheesy pull that every great Spinach Lasagna deserves.
- Lasagna noodles (12): These create those classic, structured layers—regular or oven-ready noodles both work nicely.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Just a swirl lends a hint of richness when sautéing the veggies.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Provides a sweet, savory base that quietly boosts every other flavor.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): For a crave-worthy aromatic depth; fresh is best here.
- Fresh spinach (10-ounce bag, roughly chopped): Our green star! Wilts down quickly for velvety, vitamin-packed layers.
- Ricotta cheese (15 ounces): Makes the filling creamy and light—drain off excess liquid for a firm texture.
- Large egg (1): Binds the ricotta filling so it slices up beautifully.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded): Because every lasagna needs gooey, stretchy melty cheese.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Brings that sharp, salty punch on the finishing layer.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances all the flavors—don’t skip it!
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds gentle heat—freshly ground is especially good.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon, optional): A pinch makes the ricotta filling feel extra cozy and Italian.
- Marinara sauce (3 cups): Use your favorite store-bought or homemade for the saucy binder that brings it all together.
How to Make Spinach Lasagna
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), then get those lasagna noodles bubbling away in a big pot of salted water. Cook them just until al dente, following the package instructions, so they’ll hold up perfectly as you layer. Drain and set aside, spreading them out a little to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
While your noodles cook, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent and soft. Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for just half a minute—your kitchen will smell amazing! Toss in the roughly chopped spinach and cook until it’s wilted and tender, about 2-3 minutes, then remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and a sprinkling of nutmeg if you’re using it for that classic Italian warmth. Add the slightly cooled spinach mixture and stir until everything is creamy and well blended—this is your luscious green filling for the Spinach Lasagna.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Grab your 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a generous half cup of marinara sauce across the bottom—this keeps the noodles from sticking and infuses flavor from the ground up. Layer on 4 lasagna noodles, then a third of the spinach ricotta filling, a handful of shredded mozzarella, and a cup of marinara. Repeat for two more layers, finishing with marinara sauce, the rest of the mozzarella, and a final sprinkling of Parmesan for that signature golden crown.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Tightly cover your dish with foil (this traps in moisture so your lasagna stays tender), and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, then bake another 15 to 20 minutes until your lasagna is bubbling at the edges and the cheesy top is deliciously golden and melty. Rest for 10 minutes so everything sets up—trust me, this makes slicing neat squares a breeze!
How to Serve Spinach Lasagna
Garnishes
The finishing touches really make Spinach Lasagna feel special. Sprinkle on a little more grated Parmesan, chopped fresh basil, or a tiny drizzle of good olive oil just before serving. These simple bits add a burst of color, freshness, and extra flavor.
Side Dishes
This glorious main pairs wonderfully with a simple Italian salad—think crisp romaine, cherry tomatoes, and a zingy vinaigrette. Add warm garlic bread or a rustic baguette to help scoop up every saucy bite of your Spinach Lasagna.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Spinach Lasagna in individual ramekins for a dinner party, or use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes for kids. You can even top each slice with a fried or poached egg for a decadent brunch twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Spinach Lasagna keeps in the fridge for up to four days. Store slices in an airtight container so they stay moist. It tastes arguably even better the next day as the flavors develop!
Freezing
If you’d like to make a batch ahead of time, let the lasagna cool completely after baking, then wrap tightly in foil and transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll hold beautifully for up to three months. Perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm individual slices in the microwave until heated through, or reheat the whole dish in a 350°F oven, covered, until bubbly. Add a splash of water if needed to keep your Spinach Lasagna from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just thaw and squeeze out as much water as possible before stirring it into the ricotta mixture. It works great and cuts down on prep time.
What’s the best way to slice lasagna neatly?
Let your Spinach Lasagna rest at least 10 minutes after baking so the cheese and layers can firm up. Use a sharp knife, and for extra tidy slices, wipe the blade between cuts.
Can I make this lasagna gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap regular noodles for a gluten-free lasagna noodle—just be sure to cook them according to the package instructions. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free!
Can I add mushrooms or other vegetables?
Absolutely—sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted peppers all make tasty additions. Just make sure to cook off any excess moisture to keep your lasagna from becoming watery.
What kind of marinara sauce should I use?
Your favorite jarred or homemade marinara sauce will be perfect here! I recommend one that’s flavorful on its own since it’s such a key ingredient in Spinach Lasagna.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something comforting and downright joyful about sharing a bubbling, golden Spinach Lasagna with the people you love. It’s a simple yet impressive meal that always brings smiles to the table. Give it a try—and don’t be surprised if you find yourself craving it again and again!
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Spinach Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Spinach Lasagna recipe is a delicious and comforting vegetarian dish that is perfect for a family dinner or gathering. Layers of lasagna noodles, savory spinach and ricotta cheese mixture, gooey mozzarella, and tangy marinara sauce come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10-ounce) bag fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 3 cups marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Saute Spinach: In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic, add spinach and cook until wilted.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: Mix ricotta, egg, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir in cooked spinach.
- Layer Lasagna: Spread marinara on baking dish, layer noodles, spinach mixture, mozzarella, and marinara. Repeat layers.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for 15-20 minutes more.
- Rest and Serve: Let lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Add sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Lasagna freezes well; cool completely and wrap tightly before freezing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
