Are you looking for a delicious, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love? Look no further than this Easy Spinach Lasagna Recipe! With layers of tender pasta, creamy ricotta, savory spinach, and gooey mozzarella, this lasagna is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Keep reading to discover all the secrets to making the perfect spinach lasagna, including tips, tricks, and variations to suit your taste. Let's dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

What is Spinach Lasagna?
Spinach lasagna is a delightful and hearty dish that layers lasagna noodles with a flavorful spinach and cheese filling, all smothered in rich tomato sauce and baked to perfection. This vegetarian lasagna is a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into your diet without sacrificing flavor. It’s a versatile dish that can be tailored to your taste preferences, whether you like it cheesy, saucy, or packed with extra veggies. The combination of spinach and ricotta cheese creates a creamy, slightly tangy filling that contrasts beautifully with the tomato sauce and stretchy mozzarella. It's a perfect meal for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings.
Ingredients List for Easy Spinach Lasagna
To create this scrumptious spinach lasagna, you’ll need the following ingredients. These components are easily found in most grocery stores, making this recipe accessible for everyone:
- 9 lasagna noodles: These form the base layers of your lasagna. Choose traditional or whole wheat noodles according to your preference.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions and garlic, this adds a rich flavor and helps the ingredients meld together.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Onions add sweetness and depth to the sauce, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic enhances the flavor profile, adding a subtle yet essential zing.
- 4 cups pasta sauce: Opt for your favorite marinara or tomato-based pasta sauce. A well-seasoned sauce is key to a flavorful lasagna.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs, including oregano, basil, and thyme, infuses the dish with classic Italian flavors.
- 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed: Spinach is the star of this recipe, providing a nutrient-rich layer of goodness. Ensure it’s well-drained to prevent a watery lasagna.
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese: Ricotta is creamy and mild, providing the perfect contrast to the spinach and tomato sauce.
- 4 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided: Mozzarella gives the lasagna its gooey, melty texture. You’ll use it both in the layers and on top.
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, shredded, divided: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the other cheeses.
- 1 egg: The egg helps bind the ricotta and spinach mixture, giving it a firmer texture.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness to the dish.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Salt is essential to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients and ensure the dish is well-seasoned.
Substitutions and Variations
This spinach lasagna recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to make substitutions and variations to suit your dietary needs or personal tastes. Here are some ideas:
- Noodles: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free lasagna noodles. You can also try using zucchini slices or eggplant in place of the pasta for a low-carb version.
- Cheese: Swap out ricotta with cottage cheese for a lower-fat alternative. If you prefer a more robust flavor, try adding some goat cheese to the mix.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach can be used in place of frozen, just be sure to sauté it first and drain any excess moisture. You can also mix in other greens like kale or Swiss chard.
- Protein: For a non-vegetarian version, add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken to the sauce layers.
- Sauce: If you prefer a creamier lasagna, consider adding a béchamel sauce layer or substituting half of the tomato sauce with Alfredo sauce.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making spinach lasagna is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow each step carefully to ensure a perfect result. Here’s how to do it:

- Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your lasagna will cook evenly.
- Cook the lasagna noodles: Boil the noodles in salted water according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and set aside.
- Prepare the spinach mixture: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Stir in the thawed and drained spinach, season with salt, and cook until any remaining moisture has evaporated. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Mix the cheese filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 2 cups of the shredded mozzarella, ¼ cup of the Parmesan, the egg, and the parsley. Stir in the cooked spinach mixture until well combined.
- Assemble the lasagna: In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of pasta sauce on the bottom. Place three lasagna noodles on top, followed by one-third of the spinach and ricotta mixture. Spread another layer of sauce over the cheese mixture. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with a final layer of noodles and sauce.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the lasagna.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let it rest: Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the lasagna set and makes it easier to serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with a simple recipe like this, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the noodles: Make sure to cook your lasagna noodles until they are al dente. Overcooked noodles can become mushy during baking.
- Not draining the spinach: If your spinach is too wet, it can lead to a watery lasagna. Be sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
- Skipping the rest period: Allowing the lasagna to rest after baking is crucial. This helps the layers set and prevents the lasagna from falling apart when you cut into it.
Serving and Presentation Tips
How you serve and present your spinach lasagna can elevate the dining experience. Here are some tips:
- Serving Size: A typical serving is one square, but if you’re serving this as part of a larger meal with sides, you can cut smaller portions.
- Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle the lasagna with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
- Sides: Serve the lasagna with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Serve Spinach Lasagna
Spinach lasagna is a versatile dish that can be served in various settings, from casual family dinners to more formal gatherings. Here are some ideas:
- Family Dinner: Serve the lasagna directly from the baking dish, allowing everyone to help themselves.
- Buffet-Style: For a party, cut the lasagna into smaller squares and arrange them on a platter, making it easy for guests to grab and go.
- Leftovers: Spinach lasagna makes excellent leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Presentation Ideas for Spinach Lasagna
Presentation can make your spinach lasagna even more appealing. Here are some creative ideas:
- Layered Perfection: When slicing the lasagna, aim for clean, distinct layers to showcase the beautiful textures.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh basil or parsley on top of each slice adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Serve on a Colorful Plate: Presenting the lasagna on a brightly colored or patterned plate can make the dish pop visually.
Spinach Lasagna Recipe Tips
To ensure your spinach lasagna turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:
- Use a good-quality pasta sauce: The sauce is a significant component of the dish, so choose one that you love.
- Prep ahead: You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Check for doneness: The lasagna is ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the noodles are tender when pierced with a fork.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
A: Yes! Just be sure to sauté the fresh spinach first and drain any excess moisture before mixing it with the cheese.
Q: How can I make this lasagna gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles, available at most grocery stores, or substitute the noodles with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant.
Q: Can I freeze spinach lasagna?
A: Absolutely! Once cooled, you can freeze the lasagna in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I add meat to this recipe?
A: Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken to the sauce layers for a heartier lasagna.
Q: How do I prevent my lasagna from becoming watery?
A: Make sure to drain the spinach thoroughly and avoid over-saucing the layers. Also, allow the lasagna to rest before slicing.
Conclusion
This Easy Spinach Lasagna Recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. It’s a dish that’s sure to please both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. With its layers of cheesy goodness, savory spinach, and rich tomato sauce, it’s a comforting meal that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or preparing it ahead for a gathering, this lasagna is sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!
PrintEasy Spinach Lasagna Recipe
This easy spinach lasagna recipe features layers of tender lasagna noodles, creamy ricotta, and savory spinach with a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs, it's a delicious and satisfying vegetarian meal that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups pasta sauce
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 4 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided)
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
- Stir in the pasta sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix thawed spinach, ricotta cheese, 2 cups of mozzarella, ¼ cup parmesan, egg, fresh parsley, and salt until well combined.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by ⅓ of the spinach mixture, then a layer of sauce. Repeat layers twice.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use fresh spinach instead of frozen; just sauté it with the onions and garlic.
- Make ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free lasagna noodles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅛ of lasagna)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
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