Have you ever craved a comforting, cheesy dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing? This Spinach Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese is the answer. It’s a vegetarian twist on the traditional lasagna, packed with layers of creamy ricotta, vibrant spinach, and rich tomato sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish brings warmth and joy to the table.
Why Choose Spinach Lasagna with Ricotta?
You might wonder, “Is spinach lasagna as hearty as the meat version?” Absolutely. The combination of ricotta cheese and spinach creates a creamy, flavorful filling that rivals any meat-based lasagna. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra greens without sacrificing taste.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
This lasagna stands out because it’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients. The fresh spinach is sautéed to perfection, then combined with creamy ricotta and layered between sheets of pasta and rich tomato sauce. A generous sprinkle of mozzarella on top adds that perfect melty finish.
Can I Make It Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. This lasagna is perfect for meal prep. Assemble it the night before and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven. It also freezes beautifully, making it a great option for busy days.
Pairing Suggestions
Wondering what to serve with your lasagna? A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagna. Garlic bread or a glass of red wine also make excellent accompaniments.
Why You'll Love It
This Spinach Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The layers of flavors and textures come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. It’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving something hearty and satisfying.
Ready to Try It?
If you’re looking for a delicious, vegetarian alternative to traditional lasagna, this recipe is for you. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that’s both wholesome and indulgent.
Ingredients
For the Roasted Tomato Sauce
- 6 –8 ripe tomatoes halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil or fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Filling
- 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese or vegan ricotta alternative
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tsp fresh basil chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lasagna
- 9 –12 lasagna noodles regular or no-boil
- ½ cup grated Parmesan or vegan Parmesan optional
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Tomato Sauce
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Place halved tomatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic, and oregano.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, until tomatoes are caramelized and soft.
- Blend roasted tomatoes into a smooth sauce using a blender or immersion blender. Adjust seasoning.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, chopped spinach, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) if not already.
- Spread a thin layer of roasted tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Layer lasagna noodles, then spinach-ricotta filling, then tomato sauce. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce on top.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan if desired.
Step 4: Bake & Garnish
- Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Assemble lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate; bake just before serving.
- Vegan Option: Use vegan ricotta and vegan Parmesan for a fully plant-based version.
- Spinach Substitute: Kale or Swiss chard works as a hearty alternative.
- Storage: Keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat portions in the oven or microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spinach Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese
🍝 What makes this spinach lasagna so special?
This vegetarian lasagna combines layers of rich ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, and a hearty tomato sauce, all nestled between sheets of tender pasta. The creamy ricotta filling adds a luxurious texture, while the spinach provides a nutritious and flavorful contrast.
🥬 Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach is a convenient alternative. Ensure it’s thoroughly thawed and well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the lasagna.
🧀 Can I substitute ricotta cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using tofu blended with nutritional yeast and lemon juice as a ricotta substitute. Alternatively, cottage cheese can be used for a similar texture and flavor.
🍅 What type of tomato sauce works best?
A homemade marinara sauce with garlic, onions, and herbs will elevate the dish. However, a high-quality store-bought marinara can also yield delicious results.
🍽️ How do I prevent the lasagna from being watery?
To avoid a soggy lasagna, ensure that the spinach is well-drained and that any excess moisture from the ricotta is removed. Baking the lasagna uncovered for the final 10–15 minutes can also help evaporate any remaining liquid.
⏱️ Can I prepare the lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
❄️ Can I freeze spinach lasagna?
Yes, spinach lasagna freezes well. After assembling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; simply add an extra 15–20 minutes to the baking time.
🔥 How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire lasagna in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes.
🥗 What should I serve with spinach lasagna?
Pair your lasagna with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
🍷 What wine pairs well with spinach lasagna?
A medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, complements the flavors of the lasagna beautifully.
Loved this recipe! The spinach brings a lovely freshness to the lasagna, and the ricotta cheese gives it that perfect creamy texture.