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Classic Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

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A comforting vegetarian take on the Italian classic lasagna, layered with creamy béchamel, spinach and ricotta filling, and melty cheese—perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk, warmed
  • Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg
  • 9–12 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 the béchamel, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 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.
  7. Uncover and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  8. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Notes

  • You can substitute frozen spinach for fresh—just be sure to drain it thoroughly.
  • Use whole milk for a richer béchamel sauce.
  • Letting the lasagna rest helps it set for cleaner slices.
  • No-boil lasagna sheets save time and work well with this recipe.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://foodiecara.com/classic-spinach-and-ricotta-lasagna/