Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna
Layers of tender pasta, creamy ricotta and spinach filling, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. A comforting vegetarian classic that's perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
For 8 servings
5 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Oven and Noodles
- b.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- c.If using standard lasagna noodles, cook them in a large pot of salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Lay them flat on parchment paper or a lightly oiled baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- d.If using no-boil noodles, you can skip the boiling step.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the Ricotta Filling
- b.Place the thawed spinach in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze firmly to remove as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial to prevent a watery lasagna.
- c.In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened and translucent.
- d.Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- e.In a large bowl, combine the whole milk ricotta, squeezed spinach, cooked onion and garlic mixture, 100g (about 1 cup) of the grated Parmesan cheese, the lightly beaten eggs, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- f.Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. Set aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble the Lasagna
- b.Spread 1.5 cups of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
- c.Arrange a single layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping them slightly if necessary.
- d.Spread half of the ricotta filling evenly over the noodles.
- e.Sprinkle with one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1.3 cups).
- f.Spoon another 1.5 cups of marinara sauce over the mozzarella.
- g.Repeat the layers: Add another layer of noodles, the remaining ricotta filling, another third of the mozzarella, and another 1.5 cups of sauce.
- h.Place the final layer of noodles on top. Cover with the remaining marinara sauce, ensuring all noodles are coated.
- i.Sprinkle the top evenly with the remaining one-third of mozzarella and the remaining 50g (about 1/2 cup) of Parmesan cheese.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Bake the Lasagna
- b.Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. To prevent the cheese from sticking, you can lightly spray the underside of the foil with cooking spray.
- c.Bake for 30 minutes. Then, carefully remove the foil.
- d.Continue to bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden brown, and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set, ensuring clean cuts.
- c.Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired, then slice and serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Squeezing the spinach completely dry is the most important step to prevent a watery lasagna. Use a cheesecloth or your hands to wring out all the liquid.
- 2For the best flavor and texture, use whole milk ricotta and mozzarella cheese. Low-fat versions can release more water during baking.
- 3If using no-boil noodles, make sure they are well-covered with sauce to ensure they cook through properly and don't become dry.
- 4Letting the lasagna rest before cutting is essential. It allows the layers to set, resulting in clean, beautiful slices.
- 5This lasagna can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then add about 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time.
- 6The lasagna freezes well. Bake as directed, cool completely, then wrap tightly. Reheat from frozen (covered) in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about an hour.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Vegetables
Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers into the ricotta filling for extra flavor and nutrients.
Different CheesesDifferent Cheeses
Swap some of the mozzarella for provolone for a sharper flavor, or add a dollop of mascarpone to the ricotta for extra creaminess.
Herb VariationsHerb Variations
Add fresh basil or a teaspoon of dried oregano to the ricotta mixture for a more aromatic flavor profile.
Make it SpicyMake it Spicy
Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or the ricotta filling for a gentle kick of heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Supports Bone Health
The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses provides a significant amount of calcium, a mineral that is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Promotes Muscle Maintenance
With substantial protein from the cheese and eggs, this dish helps in building and repairing body tissues and maintaining muscle mass, making it a very satisfying and filling meal.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Spinach is a nutrient-dense powerhouse, offering an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, folate, and magnesium, which contribute to immune function and overall health.
Frequently asked questions
A single slice of this lasagna contains approximately 750-800 calories. This is an estimate and can vary based on the specific brands of cheese and sauce used.