There’s something magical about making a spinach lasagna recipe that brings me back to my childhood. I remember the kitchen filled with laughter as my family gathered around, each person playing a part in layering those delicious flavors. The aroma of marinara sauce mingling with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach was simply irresistible! As I carefully assembled each layer, I felt a connection to generations of cooks before me. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together in perfect harmony. Trust me, once you dive into this spinach lasagna, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite in my home. It’s hearty, satisfying, and bursting with deliciousness that makes every bite feel like a warm hug! So, let’s get cooking and create your own delicious masterpiece!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create your mouthwatering spinach lasagna. Each one plays a vital role in bringing this dish to life!
- 9 lasagna noodles – Choose oven-ready noodles for convenience, or regular ones that you will need to boil first.
- 2 cups fresh spinach – You can use baby spinach for a milder flavor; just rinse and chop it roughly.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – Opt for whole milk ricotta for a creamier texture.
- 2 cups marinara sauce – A homemade or store-bought sauce works; just make sure it’s rich and flavorful.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – I love using whole milk mozzarella for its meltiness and stretch.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated cheese adds a delightful nuttiness.
- 1 egg – This helps bind the ricotta mixture, giving it a lovely texture.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For that aromatic kick that pairs perfectly with the spinach.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors of the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Just enough to add a hint of spice.
How to Prepare Instructions
Creating this delightful spinach lasagna is a step-by-step journey that’s both rewarding and fun! Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for your masterpiece. While that’s heating up, let’s get those lasagna noodles cooking. Boil them according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, then drain and set aside. Don’t forget to toss a little olive oil on them to prevent sticking!
Prepping the Ingredients
Next, it’s time to prepare the star ingredients! For the spinach, I recommend sautéing it briefly in a pan with just a splash of olive oil until it wilts down, which intensifies the flavor—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Once it cools slightly, chop it finely. Now, in a separate bowl, mix your ricotta cheese with the egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. This creamy mixture will be the heart of your lasagna!
Layering the Lasagna
Now comes the fun part—layering! Grab your baking dish and start assembling:
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
- Lay down 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Top with half of the chopped spinach and a third of the shredded mozzarella.
- Repeat the layers with more marinara, noodles, ricotta, spinach, and mozzarella.
- Finish with a final layer of noodles topped with remaining marinara sauce, mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Baking and Finishing Touches
Cover your assembled lasagna with foil and pop it in the oven for 25 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully! After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to achieve that gorgeous bubbly and golden cheese on top. Trust me, it’s worth the wait! Once it’s out of the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing—this helps everything set up nicely, making serving a breeze. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a vegetarian-friendly dish that even meat lovers will adore.
- Rich, creamy layers of ricotta and mozzarella create a luxurious texture.
- The fresh spinach adds a nutritious punch without sacrificing flavor.
- It’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- The aroma while baking is simply irresistible, filling your kitchen with warmth.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead option.
Tips for Success
To take your spinach lasagna recipe to the next level, consider these pro tips! First, don’t hesitate to add fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a burst of flavor—just sprinkle them between the layers. For a creamier texture, mix in a bit of mascarpone cheese with the ricotta. If you want to sneak in more veggies, try adding sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a delightful twist. Also, remember to let the lasagna cool a bit before slicing; this helps the layers stay intact. Lastly, if you’re feeling adventurous, swap the marinara for a white sauce for a unique spin!
Variations
One of the best things about this spinach lasagna recipe is how versatile it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste. For a heartier dish, try adding cooked ground beef, turkey, or even sausage between the layers. If you’re a veggie lover, consider incorporating roasted bell peppers, mushrooms, or even artichoke hearts for added texture and flavor. You can also switch up the cheeses—try adding some goat cheese for a tangy twist or using a blend of different cheeses for a unique flavor profile. Don’t be afraid to get creative with spices and herbs; a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick! The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover spinach lasagna is super easy! Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it! Just slice it into portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and then store them in a freezer bag. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices, but be careful not to overheat, as that can dry it out. Enjoy every delicious bite again!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional information for a serving of this delicious spinach lasagna recipe. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use and any variations you might make:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Sugar: 4g
These estimates provide a helpful guideline for your meal planning, ensuring you enjoy this hearty dish without any surprises!
FAQ Section
Can I make this spinach lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well! Just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture before incorporating it into the ricotta mixture.
What can I serve with spinach lasagna?
This delicious vegetarian lasagna pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover spinach lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Can I customize the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, or mix in some cooked ground meat for a heartier dish. The spinach lasagna recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste!
Sautéed spinach is a great addition to enhance the flavor of your lasagna.

Spinach Lasagna Recipe: A Cozy, Flavor-Packed Delight
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious spinach lasagna recipe that combines layers of fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and rich marinara sauce.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
- Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the spinach and a third of the mozzarella.
- Repeat the layers: marinara sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, spinach, and mozzarella.
- Top with remaining noodles, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
- Try adding cooked ground meat for a heartier dish.
- Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or feta.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: spinach lasagna recipe, vegetarian lasagna, Italian cuisine, baked pasta