Name: Spinach Ricotta Lasagna
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Fresh spinach – 10 ounces (about 5 cups packed); Garlic – 2 cloves, minced; Onion – 1 small, finely chopped; Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional); Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional); Ricotta cheese – 15 ounces; Mozzarella cheese – 2 cups shredded (preferably fresh mozzarella, torn or thinly sliced); Parmesan cheese – ½ cup grated, plus extra for topping; Egg – 1 large; Lasagna noodles – 9-12 sheets (no-boil or traditional); Marinara sauce – 3 cups; Olive oil – 2 tablespoons; Salt – 1 teaspoon, divided (or to taste); Black pepper – ½ teaspoon, divided (or to taste)

If you’re craving a warm, satisfying dish that combines fresh greens with creamy, cheesy goodness, Spinach Ricotta Lasagna is your new best friend. This hearty lasagna layers tender pasta sheets with lush spinach, velvety ricotta cheese, and your favorite marinara sauce, delivering every bit of comfort you want for a family dinner. With each bite, you experience a blend of flavors and textures that feels both nourishing and indulgent, making it a standout option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A wholesome comfort meal: Spinach Ricotta Lasagna balances fresh greens with rich, creamy cheese for a nutritious yet indulgent dinner.
Family-friendly favorite: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for shared meals.
Make ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance and bake when needed, cutting down on busy mealtime stress.
Customizable to your taste: Easy to tweak with various cheeses, sauces, or add-ins to match any preference.
Vegetarian delight: Packed with vegetables and cheese, it’s a meat-free option that still feels hearty and filling.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple ingredients come together beautifully in Spinach Ricotta Lasagna. Each one adds a unique touch—fresh spinach for color and nutrients, smooth ricotta for creamy texture, and pasta layers to hold it all, making the dish both delicious and satisfying.

Fresh spinach: Adds vibrant color and a nutritious green element to the layers.
Ricotta cheese: Provides a mild, creamy filling that binds the spinach and sauce together perfectly.
Lasagna noodles: Use no-boil or traditional for a tender pasta foundation.
Marinara sauce: A rich tomato base that infuses the dish with savory depth and moisture.
Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create an irresistible golden crust.
Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top to add a sharp, nutty flavor.
Garlic and onion: Sautéed to build flavor complexity in the sauce layer.
Egg: Helps bind the ricotta filling for a firm yet creamy consistency.
Olive oil: Used to sauté and enrich the flavors without heaviness.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate all the ingredients.

Variations for Spinach Ricotta Lasagna

One of the best things about Spinach Ricotta Lasagna is how easy it is to adapt. Whether you want to suit dietary preferences or simply mix things up, these variations offer fresh takes that keep the comfort food vibe intact.

Protein boost: Add cooked ground turkey or Italian sausage for a meatier option.
Vegan twist: Use dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella substitutes with spinach for a plant-based delight.
Extra veggies: Incorporate mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers to enhance texture and flavor.
Spicy kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for added heat.
White sauce variation: Swap marinara for a creamy béchamel for a richer, silkier layer experience.

Spinach Ricotta Lasagna Recipe for a Comforting Dinner

How to Make Spinach Ricotta Lasagna

Step 1: Prepare the spinach and filling

Begin by thoroughly washing and sautéing the fresh spinach with a drizzle of olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt until wilted. Once cooled, combine the spinach with ricotta cheese, egg, and a bit of grated Parmesan to create a creamy, well-mixed filling that’s ready to layer.

Step 2: Cook the lasagna noodles

If using traditional noodles, boil them in salted water until al dente, then drain and separate to avoid sticking. No-boil noodles can be used to save time, ensuring they cook fully during the baking process.

Step 3: Assemble the layers

Start by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking. Then layer noodles, followed by the ricotta-spinach mixture, a generous helping of sauce, and shredded mozzarella. Repeat these layers until ingredients are used up, finishing with sauce and a topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Bake until bubbly and golden

Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 10-15 minutes to allow the cheese to brown beautifully and develop a crispy crust.

Step 5: Rest before serving

Let the lasagna cool for at least 10 minutes after baking to help it set and make slicing easier. This also allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making Spinach Ricotta Lasagna

Drain spinach well: Use a clean towel or squeeze firmly to remove excess water preventing soggy layers.
Season the cheese mixture: Add Italian herbs and a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth and complexity.
Use fresh mozzarella: For the best melt and creaminess, fresh mozzarella beats the pre-shredded varieties.
Cover with foil when baking: Traps moisture to cook noodles thoroughly; remove foil near the end for browning.
Let it rest before slicing: Prevents the lasagna from falling apart and improves presentation.

How to Serve Spinach Ricotta Lasagna

Garnishes

Brighten the dish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley for color and a refreshing herbal note that complements the creamy ricotta and spinach.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty lasagna with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or garlic-roasted vegetables for a balanced, flavorful meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in small cast-iron skillets or ramekins for an elevated dinner party look, or layer in a casserole dish for easy family-style serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Spinach Ricotta Lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This gives you several ready-to-eat meals without any hassle.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through to avoid drying out. Microwave reheating works well for single servings but may change the texture slightly.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach works well as long as you thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture to prevent a watery lasagna.

Do I have to boil the lasagna noodles first?

No-boil noodles are a convenient option, but if you use traditional noodles, boiling them until just tender ensures better texture and easier layering.

Is there a way to make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free pasta sheets to keep this dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I prepare Spinach Ricotta Lasagna vegan?

Yes, by swapping ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based cheese alternatives, you can create a tasty vegan version without compromising on flavor.

How long does it take to bake this lasagna?

The total baking time is about 40-45 minutes, including covered baking to cook through, followed by uncovered time to brown the top.

Final Thoughts

Spinach Ricotta Lasagna is truly a comforting meal that brings warmth and joy to your dinner table. Its blend of creamy ricotta and fresh spinach makes it feel indulgent yet wholesome, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Give this recipe a try—you’ll soon discover it’s destined to become a family favorite you return to time and time again.

Spinach Ricotta Lasagna

Author: Brooklyn
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Spinach Ricotta Lasagna is a warm, satisfying vegetarian dish that layers tender pasta sheets with fresh spinach, creamy ricotta cheese, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella for a wholesome and indulgent family meal. Easy to prepare ahead and customizable, this comforting lasagna delivers a nourishing blend of flavors and textures perfect for any occasion.

Instructions

Prepare the spinach and filling: Wash the fresh spinach thoroughly. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté until translucent and fragrant. Add the spinach and a pinch of salt, cooking until wilted. Remove from heat and cool slightly. Once cooled, squeeze out excess moisture using a clean towel or your hands. In a mixing bowl, combine the drained spinach with ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, and a pinch of black pepper. Mix well to create a creamy filling.
Cook the lasagna noodles: If using traditional noodles, boil them in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and separate to prevent sticking. No-boil noodles can be used directly without pre-cooking.
Assemble the layers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking. Layer noodles over the sauce, followed by a spread of the ricotta-spinach mixture, then a generous helping of marinara sauce, and a layer of shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake until bubbly and golden: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the cheese to brown and develop a crispy top.
Rest before serving: Remove from the oven and allow the lasagna to rest for at least 10 minutes. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier while allowing the flavors to meld.

Notes

Drain spinach well to avoid soggy lasagna layers.
Season the cheese mixture with Italian herbs and a pinch of nutmeg for added warmth.
Use fresh mozzarella for best melting and creaminess.
Cover with foil during baking to trap moisture and cook noodles thoroughly; remove foil near the end for browning.
Let the lasagna rest before slicing to preserve shape and improve presentation.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian