Easy Spinach Lasagna with Ricotta

Category: Inspiring Dinner Ideas

Mix ricotta with eggs, Parmesan and seasonings, then fold in cooked spinach. Layer with lasagna noodles, marinara and mozzarella. Bake covered, then uncovered until golden and bubbly.
Sarah
Created By Sarah John
Updated on Sun, 02 Mar 2025 15:26:10 GMT
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The comforting aroma of bubbling cheese and rich tomato sauce fills the kitchen as spinach lasagna bakes to perfection. This hearty vegetarian main dish combines layers of tender pasta, creamy ricotta, nutrient-packed spinach, and savory marinara sauce to create a meal that satisfies both body and soul. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor that complement each other perfectly.

I discovered the magic of spinach lasagna during my college years when I needed budget-friendly meals that could last several days. What started as a practical cooking solution became a favorite comfort food that I've perfected over decades. My children, initially skeptical of 'green pasta,' now request this lasagna for their birthday dinners.

Perfect Pasta Ingredients

  • Lasagna noodles: Choose traditional or no-boil varieties depending on your preference; traditional creates more distinct layers
  • Whole milk ricotta cheese: Provides the creamy foundation; avoid low-fat versions which become watery when baked
  • Fresh spinach: Delivers better texture and color than frozen; look for bright, crisp leaves without wilting
  • Whole milk mozzarella cheese: Creates that irresistible cheese pull; always grate your own from a block for best flavor
  • Aged Parmesan cheese: Adds depth and umami flavor; select authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano for best results
  • Quality marinara sauce: Acts as the flavor backbone; choose one with minimal ingredients and no added sugar
  • Large eggs: Binds the ricotta mixture perfectly; room temperature eggs incorporate more evenly
  • Fresh garlic: Elevates the entire dish compared to powdered; mince finely for best distribution

Building The Perfect Lasagna

Spinach Preparation:
Thoroughly wash fresh spinach, removing any tough stems. Sauté in a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes. This step reduces bitterness and removes excess moisture.
Ricotta Mixture Creation:
Combine whole milk ricotta with beaten eggs in a large bowl, stirring until completely smooth. Add finely grated Parmesan, minced fresh garlic, chopped basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly before folding in the prepared spinach until evenly distributed.
Perfect Assembly:
Begin with a thin layer of marinara sauce spread evenly across the bottom of your baking dish. This prevents noodles from sticking and burning. Arrange noodles in a single layer, overlapping slightly if necessary. Spread one-third of the ricotta-spinach mixture over noodles, followed by a layer of marinara and a light sprinkle of mozzarella. Continue building layers, maintaining consistent thickness throughout. Each layer of ricotta mixture should be approximately half an inch thick. Press gently with a spatula to eliminate air pockets between layers. Reserve extra mozzarella for the final topping.
Proper Coverage:
End with a layer of noodles topped with remaining marinara sauce, ensuring all pasta edges are covered to prevent drying. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella and additional Parmesan cheese, focusing on even distribution for consistent browning.
Perfect Baking:
Cover tightly with foil, being careful not to let it touch the cheese. Bake covered at 375°F for 25 minutes to cook through. Remove foil and continue baking for 15-20 minutes until cheese develops a beautiful golden brown color with slightly crispy edges.
Resting Period:
Allow lasagna to rest for at least 15 minutes before cutting. This crucial step lets the layers set properly and prevents the filling from spilling out when served.
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My family particularly loves the contrast between the creamy ricotta-spinach filling and the slightly crispy cheese topping. My husband, typically a dedicated meat-eater, requests this vegetarian lasagna regularly, claiming the combination of three cheeses makes him completely forget there's no meat involved. The way the flavors meld together after resting creates something truly greater than the sum of its parts.

Delicious Accompaniments

Create a complete Italian-inspired meal by pairing this substantial lasagna with thoughtfully selected sides. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon, olive oil, and shaved Parmesan offers a peppery contrast that cuts through the richness. Crusty garlic bread with herb butter provides the perfect vehicle for soaking up any extra sauce. For elegant dinner parties, I serve small portions as a first course followed by a light entrée of grilled fish or chicken with roasted vegetables, creating a balanced multi-course experience.

Creative Variations

Transform this versatile recipe by experimenting with different flavor profiles. Add sautéed mushrooms to the spinach mixture for an earthy, meaty texture that satisfies even dedicated carnivores. Replace traditional marinara with creamy béchamel sauce for a 'white' lasagna that offers delicate sophistication. For Mediterranean flair, incorporate artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes into the ricotta mixture, finishing with a sprinkle of pine nuts on top. My sister-in-law makes a fantastic fall version with butternut squash and sage that's become our Thanksgiving tradition.

Keeping It Fresh

Store leftover lasagna properly to maintain its wonderful texture and flavor. Allow completely cooled lasagna to refrigerate uncovered for 30 minutes before covering with foil or transferring to storage containers. This prevents condensation that makes the top soggy. Refrigerated portions stay fresh for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap then foil before freezing for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in a 350°F oven until heated through. Add a sprinkle of fresh mozzarella during the last few minutes of reheating to revive the cheesy top.

I've prepared this spinach lasagna countless times over the years, from casual family dinners to special celebrations. There's something deeply satisfying about the process of building those perfect layers, knowing each component contributes to the final masterpiece. What I love most is watching someone take their first bite, eyes closing momentarily as they savor the harmony of flavors. This recipe represents what cooking is truly about - transforming simple ingredients into something that nourishes both body and spirit, creating moments of joy around the table that linger long after the meal is finished.

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Common Questions About Cooking

→ Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes! No-boil (oven-ready) noodles work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure your sauce covers all the pasta edges to ensure they cook properly.
→ How do I prevent my lasagna from being watery?
The key is removing excess moisture from the spinach. If using fresh, sauté and drain well. For frozen spinach, thaw completely and squeeze out all water using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
→ Can I add meat to this vegetarian lasagna?
Absolutely! Brown 1/2 pound of ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage and add it between the layers. Just be sure to drain any excess fat before adding it to your lasagna.
→ Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
This lasagna is perfect for make-ahead meals. Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add about 10 minutes to the covered baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
→ How long do leftovers last?
Leftover lasagna will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 3 months for quick future meals.

Easy Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

A delicious vegetarian lasagna loaded with creamy ricotta, sautéed spinach, and melted cheese. Simple to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Preparation Time
20 minutes
Cooking Duration
40 minutes
Total Time Required
60 minutes
Created By: Sarah John

Recipe Category: Dinner Delights

Skill Level Required: Moderate Skills Needed

Cuisine Style: Italian

Recipe Output: 6 Number of Servings

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian-Friendly

What You'll Gather

Contains 01 items 12 lasagna noodles, oven-ready or boiled
Contains 02 items 2 cups ricotta cheese
Contains 03 items 2 cups fresh spinach, sautéed and drained (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry)
Contains 04 items 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
Contains 05 items ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Contains 06 items 3 cups marinara sauce
Contains 07 items 2 large eggs
Contains 08 items 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Contains 09 items 1 teaspoon onion powder
Contains 10 items 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Contains 11 items ½ teaspoon salt
Contains 12 items ¼ teaspoon pepper

→ Optional Add-Ons

Contains 13 items ½ pound ground beef, turkey, or chicken (cooked)
Contains 14 items 1 cup sautéed mushrooms or zucchini

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

If you're using fresh spinach, throw it in a hot pan and sauté until it wilts down. Drain off any liquid and give it a rough chop. Using frozen? Make sure it's completely thawed, then squeeze the life out of it to get rid of all that extra water.

Step 02

Grab a big bowl and mix together the ricotta, eggs, Parmesan, and all your seasonings - garlic powder, onion powder, Italian herbs, salt and pepper. Once that's well combined, fold in your prepared spinach until everything's evenly mixed.

Step 03

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish - this prevents the noodles from sticking. Lay down your first layer of lasagna noodles, slightly overlapping them.

Step 04

Spread a generous layer of your ricotta-spinach mixture over the noodles. Top with a sprinkle of mozzarella, then a layer of marinara sauce. Repeat the whole process - noodles, ricotta mix, mozzarella, sauce - until you've used everything up.

Step 05

For your final layer, place noodles on top, cover with the last of your sauce, and sprinkle generously with mozzarella and a dusting of Parmesan cheese for that perfect golden top.

Step 06

Cover your dish with foil (spray the underside with cooking spray if you're worried about cheese sticking) and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly and starting to brown in spots.

Step 07

This is the hardest part! Let your lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before cutting into it. This helps it set up so you get nice, clean slices instead of a sloppy mess.

Important Tips

  1. For a make-ahead option, assemble the lasagna, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
  2. This lasagna freezes beautifully! Cool completely, cut into portions, and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
  3. You can use jarred marinara sauce or make your own from scratch for even more flavor.

Essential Tools

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sauté pan (if using fresh spinach)
  • Aluminum foil
  • Sharp knife for slicing

Allergen Guidance

Double-check ingredients for allergens and consult a health expert if needed.
  • Dairy (ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan)
  • Eggs
  • Gluten (pasta, unless using gluten-free noodles)

Nutrition Details (per serving)

This nutrition info is provided as a guide and isn't a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 320
  • Fat Amount: 16 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Protein Amount: 22 g