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Classic Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Layer upon layer of creamy béchamel, rich spinach and ricotta filling, tender lasagna sheets, and melty golden cheese. A comforting vegetarian take on the Italian classic that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Spinach Filling:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 package frozen, thawed and drained)
  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For the Béchamel Sauce:
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk, warmed
  • Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg
  • For Assembly:
  • 912 lasagna sheets (no-boil or boiled)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (extra for topping)
  • Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat.
  3. Mix spinach with ricotta, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  4. For béchamel, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes. Gradually add warm milk while whisking until smooth. Simmer until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
  5. Spread a layer of béchamel on the bottom of a greased baking dish. Add a layer of lasagna sheets, followed by spinach filling, béchamel, and mozzarella. Repeat layers, ending with béchamel and a generous topping of Parmesan and mozzarella.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  7. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

  • Use no-boil lasagna sheets for quicker prep or pre-boil regular sheets.
  • Make ahead and refrigerate—bake when ready to serve.
  • Let the lasagna rest before slicing for cleaner portions.

Nutrition

Keywords: spinach lasagna, ricotta lasagna, vegetarian lasagna, baked pasta, Italian comfort food