Imagine pulling a bubbling, golden-brown lasagna out of the oven, its layers of spinach, cheese, and rich tomato sauce promising comfort in every bite. Baked Spinach Lasagna isn’t just a meal—it’s an invitation to indulge while nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting friends, or preparing meals for the week, this recipe is a surefire way to impress. Let’s explore how to make this delicious and nutritious dish step-by-step.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Baked Spinach Lasagna
A Healthy Comfort Food
- Nutrient-Rich Spinach: Packed with iron, vitamins, and antioxidants, spinach adds a nutritious boost to this hearty dish.
- Protein-Packed Layers: With ricotta, mozzarella, and optional lean ground meat or tofu, this lasagna provides a satisfying protein punch.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to fit vegetarian, gluten-free, or low-carb diets by swapping out ingredients.
Crowd-Pleasing and Meal-Prep Friendly
- Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners.
- Reheats beautifully for meal prep, making it ideal for busy weekdays.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Baked Spinach Lasagna
Ingredients Breakdown Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lasagna noodles | 12 sheets | Use regular or oven-ready noodles. |
| Fresh spinach | 500g | Can substitute with frozen spinach (thawed). |
| Ricotta cheese | 500g | Cottage cheese works as a lower-fat alternative. |
| Mozzarella cheese | 300g | Shredded, for layering and topping. |
| Parmesan cheese | 100g | Grated, for added flavor. |
| Marinara sauce | 4 cups | Homemade or store-bought. |
| Garlic cloves | 2 minced | Enhances the marinara and spinach layers. |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing spinach. |
| Egg | 1 large | Helps bind the ricotta layer. |
| Optional ground meat/tofu | 300g | Cooked and crumbled for an additional layer. |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | Adds flavor to the sauce and layers. |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Essential for seasoning. |
Step-by-Step Recipe for Baked Spinach Lasagna
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess water before sautéing.
Step 2: Mix the Ricotta Layer
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, a beaten egg, half of the Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
If not using oven-ready noodles, cook lasagna sheets according to package instructions. Drain and lay flat on a clean surface to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer 3-4 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture, followed by sautéed spinach, marinara sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of marinara and mozzarella on top.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips for Perfect Baked Spinach Lasagna
- Prevent Watery Lasagna: Squeeze excess water from spinach and avoid overloading with sauce.
- Cheese Blend: Combine mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a creamier topping.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Add fresh basil or parsley to the ricotta layer for extra freshness.
- Freezing Option: Assemble the lasagna and freeze before baking for a make-ahead meal.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Baked Spinach Lasagna with these sides for a complete meal:
- Salad: A crisp Caesar or mixed green salad complements the richness of the lasagna.
- Bread: Serve with garlic bread or a crusty baguette for dipping into the sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Chianti enhances the flavors beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Gluten-Free?
Yes! Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure your marinara sauce is gluten-free.
Can I Use Frozen Spinach?
Absolutely. Just thaw and squeeze out excess water before using.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers are great additions.
Conclusion
Baked Spinach Lasagna combines comfort, flavor, and nutrition in one irresistible dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your favorite variations or tips in the comments. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!