Spinach lasagna with ricotta is like a warm hug for your taste buds. Picture layers of tender pasta enveloped in creamy ricotta, vibrant spinach, and a zesty marinara sauce that dances on your palate. southern cornbread poppers The aroma wafting from the oven will have your neighbors knocking at the door, wondering if they can join in on this delicious feast. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy mushroom chicken lasagna recipe.
I remember the first time I made spinach lasagna with ricotta for my family. The look of joy on their faces as they took their first bite was priceless. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home, promising to deliver an unforgettable flavor experience that leaves everyone asking for seconds. refreshing dip for gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Spinach lasagna with ricotta simplifies dinner preparation, making it easy even for beginners
- Each layer bursts with flavors and colors, creating a visually stunning centerpiece
- The dish is easily customizable; you can add your favorite veggies or proteins
- It’s a healthy option that still feels indulgent, satisfying every craving without guilt
I once served this spinach lasagna with ricotta at a potluck, and let’s just say it disappeared faster than I could say “seconds!”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
Lasagna Noodles: Opt for no-boil noodles to save time or traditional ones if you prefer a more authentic texture.
-
Fresh Spinach: Use baby spinach for tenderness; you can also substitute frozen spinach if necessary.
-
Ricotta Cheese: Choose whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it makes all the difference in texture.
-
Marinara Sauce: A good-quality store-bought sauce works wonders, or make your own for extra flavor.
-
Shredded Mozzarella: Use part-skim mozzarella for melting goodness without being overly greasy. easy baked chicken dinner.
-
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds a nutty flavor that elevates the entire dish.
-
Eggs: Eggs help bind the ricotta mixture together and add richness.
-
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings out the best flavors in the dish.
-
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those delicious ingredients!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Sauté the Spinach: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté fresh spinach until wilted—about 3-4 minutes—adding a pinch of salt to enhance its flavor.
Create the Ricotta Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, half of the parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well blended and creamy.
Layer It Up!: Begin layering! Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of your baking dish. Lay down noodles followed by half of the ricotta mixture and half of sautéed spinach.
Add More Layers!: Repeat layering with marinara sauce, noodles again, remaining ricotta mixture, more spinach, and top with mozzarella cheese. Finish off with another layer of noodles and marinara sauce.
Bake to Perfection!: Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and sprinkle remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top; bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Now that you’ve reached this stage in cooking spinach lasagna with ricotta, trust me—your kitchen smells heavenly! Prepare yourself for some serious taste bud excitement when you finally dig in!
Let cool slightly before slicing to allow layers to set—if you can resist diving right in! Enjoy this delightful meal paired with a simple salad or some crusty bread!
And there you have it—a scrumptious spinach lasagna with ricotta that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
You Must Know
- This spinach lasagna with ricotta is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate
- The layers of cheesy goodness and tender noodles create a flavor explosion
- When you bake it, the aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone wonder what delightful magic you’re cooking up
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the spinach while boiling the lasagna noodles. Layer ricotta, mozzarella, and marinara for a harmonious blend of flavors. For more inspiration, check out this cajun lasagna recipe recipe.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out spinach for kale or add some mushrooms for extra earthiness. Experiment with spices like nutmeg for an unexpected twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for best texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- This spinach lasagna with ricotta is all about layering flavors
- Use fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a fresh kick
- Ensure your noodles are al dente; they’ll cook more in the oven, preventing mushiness
- Always let it rest before slicing for clean cuts!
There was this one time I made this spinach lasagna with ricotta for my family gathering, and my cousin declared it “life-changing.” Who knew a simple dish could cause such a stir? It became our family’s go-to recipe! comforting stuffed chicken recipe.
FAQ
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, just thaw and drain excess water before using in the recipe.
How long should I bake the lasagna?
Bake at 375°F for about 45 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
What can I serve with this spinach lasagna?
A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this dish!
Spinach Lasagna with Ricotta
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Indulge in the comforting layers of spinach lasagna with ricotta, a dish that combines tender pasta, creamy ricotta, and vibrant spinach in a zesty marinara sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, this lasagna not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Easy to prepare and customizable to your liking, this recipe is sure to become a favorite among friends and family.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles (no-boil or traditional)
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sauté fresh spinach in a skillet over medium heat until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning; mix until smooth.
- Spread marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish. Layer noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, half of the sautéed spinach, then repeat.
- Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil, add remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top; bake uncovered for another 20 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 230g)
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
