Description
Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna is a comforting and flavorful twist on the classic lasagna. With layers of tender pasta, creamy ricotta cheese, and a savory spinach filling, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing. The rich and cheesy filling is perfectly complemented by the fresh spinach, while the marinara sauce adds a savory depth of flavor. This vegetarian lasagna is a great choice for a family dinner, holiday gathering, or anytime you want to enjoy a hearty and delicious meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles (no-boil or regular)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
10 oz fresh spinach (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light layer of olive oil.
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. If using no-boil noodles, skip this step. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
- Add the spinach to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until wilted (if using fresh spinach). If using frozen spinach, just heat through and stir to combine.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and the spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper, then stir until well combined.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Begin layering the lasagna: place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a layer of the spinach and ricotta mixture. Top with a spoonful of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce and the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
Notes
- Add Protein: For those who prefer meat, you can add ground beef, turkey, or sausage to the marinara sauce for a heartier dish.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this dish gluten-free.
- Vegan Version: Substitute the ricotta cheese with a plant-based ricotta, use dairy-free mozzarella, and opt for an egg substitute like flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer.
- Extra Veggies: Add vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the spinach filling for more flavor and texture.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spinach mixture or marinara sauce for a spicy kick.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg