Description
This Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna offers a delightful fusion of earthy mushrooms, fresh spinach, and creamy cheeses, layered between perfectly cooked lasagna noodles and tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound mushrooms (such as cremini or button), sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
- Boil the lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente, according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Mushroom and Spinach Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add sliced mushrooms, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until mushrooms are tender and excess liquid has evaporated.
- Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta cheese over the noodles.
- Evenly distribute half of the mushroom and spinach mixture over the ricotta.
- Sprinkle a third of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the vegetables.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with a final layer of marinara sauce and the remaining cheeses on top.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes to set.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Seasoning: Remember to season each layer with salt, pepper, and desired herbs to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Vegetable Preparation: Precook vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or spinach before layering to release their flavors and prevent excess moisture.
- Resting Time: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10–15 minutes after baking to set the layers and enhance flavors.
- No-Boil Noodles: If using no-boil noodles, add extra sauce to keep them moist during baking.
- Make-Ahead: Lasagna tastes even better the next day. Consider making it ahead and refrigerating overnight for enhanced flavors.
- Baking Tip: Cover with foil during baking to prevent the cheese from burning. Remove the foil towards the end to allow the cheese to brown.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
