Spinach Ricotta Lasagna

Hey, friend, get ready to dive into a dish that’s like a warm, cheesy embrace! Spinach Ricotta Lasagna is a vegetarian dream, layering tender pasta with creamy ricotta, vibrant spinach, and a rich tomato sauce that’ll have you savoring every bite. It’s the kind of comfort food that feels like a cozy night in, whether you’re feeding your family, impressing friends, or just craving something hearty and soul-warming. Trust me, you’re going to love this—it’s a game-changer that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat!

Why You’ll Love Spinach Ricotta Lasagna

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck with friends, or just treating yourself to something special, this lasagna is versatile enough to shine. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

• Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a showstopper for gatherings. It’s great for meal prep, too, since it reheats beautifully.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients like spinach, ricotta, and pantry staples, proving you don’t need fancy stuff for a meal that feels indulgent.
• Quick and Easy: Simple steps that come together without fuss, even if you’re not a pro in the kitchen. It’s designed to be approachable and stress-free.
• Customizable: Add extra veggies, tweak the spices, or swap cheeses to suit your taste. Make it as mild or bold as you like!
• Crowd-Pleasing: A hit with everyone, from veggie lovers to meat-eaters. The creamy, cheesy layers are impossible to resist.

Ingredients in Spinach Ricotta Lasagna

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Here’s the magic of this lasagna—it’s built on simple ingredients that create a symphony of flavors. Let’s break it down:

Lasagna Noodles

The foundation of the dish. These sturdy noodles hold up to the layers of sauce and cheese, creating that classic lasagna texture.

Ricotta Cheese

Creamy and mild, ricotta is the heart of the filling, giving the lasagna its rich, velvety layers that melt in your mouth.

Spinach

Fresh or frozen, spinach adds vibrant color and earthy flavor, plus a dose of nutrients that make this dish feel wholesome.

Mozzarella Cheese

Shredded mozzarella brings that gooey, stretchy cheese pull we all love, adding a golden, bubbly top to the lasagna.

Parmesan Cheese

A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a nutty, salty kick that elevates the flavor of every layer.

Tomato Sauce

A rich, tangy sauce made from crushed tomatoes or your favorite marinara, tying all the layers together with savory goodness.

Garlic

Fresh garlic infuses the filling and sauce with warm, aromatic depth that makes every bite irresistible.

Italian Seasoning

A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that brings classic Italian flavor to the dish.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even baking and a perfectly bubbly, golden top.

Prepare the Spinach

If using fresh spinach, sauté it with a little garlic and olive oil until wilted, then drain excess liquid. If using frozen, thaw and squeeze out as much water as possible. This keeps the lasagna from getting soggy.

Mix the Ricotta Filling

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, sautéed or thawed spinach, half the Parmesan, a pinch of Italian seasoning, and a dash of salt and pepper. Mix until creamy and well-blended. This filling is the creamy heart of your lasagna.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom to start building the layers.

Assemble the Dish

Lay down a layer of lasagna noodles (trim if needed to fit). Spread a layer of the ricotta-spinach mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of tomato sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat the layers—noodles, ricotta mixture, sauce, mozzarella—until all ingredients are used, ending with a generous layer of mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Cook to Perfection

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 golden and bubbly. If you love a crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.

Finishing Touches

Remove from the oven and let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes. This helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice and serve warm, with extra sauce on the side if desired. Pair with your favorite sides for a meal that’s pure comfort!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: 350 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes

How to Serve Spinach Ricotta Lasagna

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Fresh Salads: Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or a mixed green salad with a balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the extra sauce.
• Creamy Accompaniments: A dollop of extra ricotta or a sprinkle of fresh basil adds a creamy, fresh touch to each slice.
• Vegetable Sides: Roasted zucchini, eggplant, or asparagus make colorful, nutritious sides that complement the lasagna’s richness.
• As a Standalone: This lasagna is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for a finishing touch.

Presentation matters too! Serve on a large, colorful platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs to make the meal feel festive and inviting.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Prep Ahead: Assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake when ready for a stress-free meal.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or ricotta mixture for a subtle kick.
• Dietary Adjustments: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or dairy-free cheese for gluten-free or vegan versions.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to keep it creamy.
• Double the Batch: Make two lasagnas and freeze one (unbaked) for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute ricotta with another cheese?
A1: Yes! Cottage cheese or mascarpone can work, though ricotta gives the creamiest texture. Blend cottage cheese for smoothness if using.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for best results.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Freeze the unbaked or baked lasagna in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking or reheating.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! Use a larger baking dish or make two 9×13-inch pans. Cooking time may increase slightly, so check for doneness.

Q7: Can I use fresh instead of frozen spinach?
A7: Yes! Sauté fresh spinach until wilted and drain well to avoid excess moisture. About 1 pound fresh equals 10 ounces frozen.

Q8: Can I add meat to this lasagna?
A8: Sure! Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken to the sauce for a heartier, non-vegetarian version.

Q9: Do I need to cook the lasagna noodles first?
A9: Not if you use no-boil noodles! If using regular noodles, cook al dente before assembling to avoid mushiness.

Q10: Can I make this gluten-free?
A10: Yes! Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure your tomato sauce is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Spinach Ricotta Lasagna is the kind of dish that warms your heart and soul, with its cheesy, creamy layers and vibrant spinach tucked into every bite. It’s a vegetarian masterpiece that’s perfect for cozy family dinners, festive gatherings, or just treating yourself to something special. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe proves that comfort food can be both delicious and doable. So grab your baking dish, layer up those flavors, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as comforting to eat as it is to share. Happy cooking, you kitchen rockstar!

Print