Description
There’s something truly special about a warm, cheesy lasagna straight from the oven – layers of savory flavor, creamy texture, and just the right amount of richness to satisfy any craving. Spinach lasagna brings a unique twist to this Italian favorite, showcasing the fresh, earthy flavor of spinach nestled between layers of cheese and pasta. This dish has been a favorite in homes for generations, often making its way to family gatherings and cozy dinners. If you’re searching for a lighter, veggie-focused lasagna that’s still packed with all the flavor and comfort of the original, this spinach lasagna is sure to impress.
It’s perfect for weekend family dinners, a potluck, or even meal prep for the week ahead. And the best part? This lasagna uses simple, wholesome ingredients and skips any complicated steps. The combination of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and tender spinach is all you need to make a delightful, heartwarming meal.
Ingredients
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Spinach – 5 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Ricotta cheese – 1 ½ cups
- Mozzarella cheese – 2 cups, shredded
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
- Egg – 1 large
- Lasagna noodles – 9-12, oven-ready
- Marinara sauce – 3 cups
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper – to taste
- Nutmeg – ¼ teaspoon, optional for added warmth
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach Filling
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, cooking until it turns translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.Gradually add the spinach to the pan, stirring as it wilts. This should only take a few minutes. Once the spinach is cooked down and tender, remove the skillet from the heat. Let it cool slightly, then chop it roughly to ensure even distribution in the lasagna. - Mix the Ricotta Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the egg. Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a dash of nutmeg if using. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth to the filling and complements the spinach beautifully. Stir until smooth and well-combined, then fold in the chopped spinach. - Layer the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking dish (a 9×13-inch pan works well) and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.Begin layering with a single layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a portion of the ricotta and spinach mixture over the noodles, then drizzle with marinara sauce. Repeat these layers (noodles, ricotta-spinach mixture, marinara) until you reach the top of the baking dish, finishing with a layer of noodles topped with marinara sauce. - Add the Final Cheese Layer
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the final layer of marinara, followed by a bit of Parmesan for extra flavor. - Bake the Lasagna
Cover the lasagna pan with foil, making sure it doesn’t touch the cheese to prevent sticking. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. - Let It Rest
Once the lasagna is out of the oven, let it sit for 10-15 minutes. This resting time allows the layers to settle and makes it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
Notes
This spinach lasagna can easily be adapted to include other vegetables or cheeses you enjoy. Try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, on top just before serving for added color and flavor.