Spinach Lasagna with Ricotta Recipe

Spinach lasagna with ricotta is a hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish that layers tender lasagna noodles with a creamy ricotta-spinach filling, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella. This classic Italian-inspired recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Vegetarian and Satisfying – Packed with protein-rich ricotta and nutrient-dense spinach.
• Rich and Flavorful – A well-seasoned marinara sauce enhances the taste of every bite.
• Easy to Make – Simple, wholesome ingredients come together for a fuss-free dish.
• Great for Meal Prep – Assemble in advance and bake when needed.
• Customizable – Adjust the cheese, seasonings, or add other vegetables to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Spinach Filling:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Ricotta Mixture:

• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Spinach Filling – Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant and softened. Stir in spinach, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the spinach is wilted, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Make the Ricotta Mixture – In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Stir in the cooked spinach mixture until well combined.
3. Prepare the Marinara Sauce – In a saucepan over medium heat, combine crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Assemble the Lasagna
   • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Add a layer of cooked lasagna noodles.
   • Spread a portion of the ricotta-spinach mixture over the noodles.
   • Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and top with marinara sauce.
   • Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of sauce and mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Bake – Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Serve – Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Add More Vegetables – Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers can be added to the spinach mixture for extra flavor.
• Use Different Cheeses – Try cottage cheese instead of ricotta or mix in some provolone for added richness.
• Spicy Version – Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne for a bolder taste.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make the dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
• Lighter Option – Use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella for a lower-calorie version.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make spinach lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

How do I prevent lasagna from becoming watery?

Make sure to cook the spinach until most of its moisture has evaporated, and allow the lasagna to rest before slicing.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the filling.

What can I serve with spinach lasagna?

Garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables pair well with this dish.

Can I use oven-ready (no-boil) lasagna noodles?

Yes, but you may need to add a little extra marinara sauce to ensure they cook properly.

How can I make this lasagna cheesier?

Increase the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese layers or mix in additional cheese varieties like fontina or asiago.

Is this lasagna suitable for freezing?

Yes, it freezes well both before and after baking. Wrap it tightly and store for up to 3 months.

Can I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta?

Yes, cottage cheese is a good alternative, though the texture will be slightly different.

How do I prevent the lasagna from falling apart when slicing?

Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting to allow the layers to set properly.

How do I make a dairy-free version of this lasagna?

Use plant-based ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan substitutes, along with dairy-free milk for the sauce.

Conclusion

Spinach lasagna with ricotta is a delicious and satisfying vegetarian dish that’s packed with rich flavors and creamy textures. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, this lasagna is sure to be a hit. With its cheesy layers, homemade marinara, and tender pasta, it’s a comforting classic that everyone will enjoy.