If you’ve been looking for a comforting, rich, and flavorful lasagna that’s packed with veggies, then look no further—this Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna is about to steal your heart! Imagine layers of perfectly cooked noodles, velvety ricotta cheese, earthy mushrooms, and tender spinach, all baked together in a cheesy, herby tomato sauce. It’s the ultimate combination of creamy, savory, and satisfying in every bite. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just craving a wholesome, indulgent meal, this lasagna will become your new favorite go-to comfort food.
Why You’ll Love Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna
- Vegetarian Delight: This lasagna is fully loaded with healthy veggies but still incredibly hearty, making it perfect for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
- Packed with Flavor: With garlic, mushrooms, spinach, and herbs, each layer is bursting with flavor. The creamy ricotta and mozzarella just pull it all together.
- Perfectly Comforting: There’s something so satisfying about lasagna, and this recipe delivers all the comfort, minus the meat.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Lasagna is always better the next day, so feel free to prep this in advance for a stress-free dinner.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is great for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy meal at home. It’s always a hit!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious lasagna to life:
For the Mushroom and Spinach Filling:
- Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms like cremini, button, or a mix for a deep, savory flavor.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach, wilted down to create a tender layer in the lasagna.
- Garlic: For that essential aromatic base.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the veggies to bring out their natural flavors.
- Ricotta Cheese: Creamy and rich—this forms a big part of the lasagna’s creamy filling.
- Mozzarella Cheese: To give the lasagna its signature gooey cheese layer.
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this on top for that perfect golden finish.
For the Tomato Sauce:
- Canned Tomatoes: Crushed or diced tomatoes to create a rich base.
- Tomato Paste: Adds a deeper, more concentrated tomato flavor.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion to add sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- Herbs: Fresh or dried basil, oregano, and thyme to infuse the sauce with classic Italian flavors.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning the sauce.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for a little heat.
Other Ingredients:
- Lasagna Noodles: Either traditional or no-boil noodles will work.
- Egg: To help bind the ricotta cheese mixture.
- Fresh Basil: For garnish (optional).
(Note: Full ingredient list, including measurements, can be found in the recipe card below.)
Instructions
Let’s walk through how to make this Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna step-by-step!
Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and soft, about 3-5 minutes. Add in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and herbs, then season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Prepare the Mushroom and Spinach Filling
While the sauce is simmering, heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until they’re browned and tender. Add the spinach to the pan, stirring until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, a little salt, pepper, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and well-combined.
Step 4: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
If using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, ensuring the noodles don’t stick together.
Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Then, layer the noodles, followed by the ricotta mixture, sautéed mushrooms and spinach, and a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake the Lasagna
Cover the lasagna with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 7: Let It Rest and Serve
Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set so you get those perfect, clean slices. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve!
Nutrition Facts
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition for one serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories per serving: 350-400 calories
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 18g
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Vitamin C: 15%
- Calcium: 25%
- Iron: 10%
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
How to Serve Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna
- With a Side Salad: Pair this lasagna with a fresh, tangy side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy, buttery garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A light red wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors of the lasagna beautifully.
Additional Tips
- Make Ahead: Lasagna tastes even better the next day! Feel free to make it ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake it the next day.
- Freezer-Friendly: You can also freeze individual portions of this lasagna for a quick meal on busy nights.
- Use Fresh Spinach: If using frozen spinach, make sure to squeeze out excess moisture to prevent the lasagna from getting soggy.
- Add More Veggies: If you love veggies, you can add zucchini, bell peppers, or even some roasted eggplant to the layers.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use store-bought tomato sauce instead of making my own?
A1: Yes, store-bought tomato sauce works well too, especially if you’re short on time. Just season it with herbs to make it your own!
Q2: Can I use no-boil noodles for this lasagna?
A2: Absolutely! No-boil noodles are a great time-saver and will absorb the sauce as it bakes, making for a super tender lasagna.
Q3: Can I make this lasagna gluten-free?
A3: Yes! You can use gluten-free lasagna noodles, and this recipe will work perfectly.
Q4: Can I add meat to this lasagna?
A4: If you want to add meat, ground beef, turkey, or sausage would be delicious! Simply brown the meat and layer it in with the mushrooms and spinach.
Q5: Can I use different types of cheese?
A5: Yes! Feel free to swap out mozzarella with provolone or fontina for different textures and flavors.
Q6: How do I store leftover lasagna?
A6: Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.
Q7: Can I make this lasagna in advance?
A7: Yes! Assemble the lasagna the night before, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Bake it the next day as usual.
Q8: Can I add more cheese to the layers?
A8: Definitely! Add extra mozzarella or sprinkle some extra Parmesan between the layers for more cheesy goodness.
Q9: Can I use frozen spinach?
A9: Yes, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture from the frozen spinach to prevent the lasagna from getting soggy.
Q10: Can I make this lasagna in a smaller dish?
A10: Absolutely! Just adjust the layers to fit the size of your dish and keep an eye on the baking time.
Conclusion
This Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna is the perfect way to indulge in a comforting, hearty meal without missing the meat. It’s packed with delicious vegetables, creamy cheese, and a savory tomato sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a special occasion, or meal prep for the week, this lasagna is always a winner. Grab your ingredients, get layering, and enjoy the cozy, delicious goodness of homemade lasagna!
PrintMushroom and Spinach Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna is a delicious vegetarian twist on the classic lasagna, featuring layers of rich, creamy ricotta cheese, sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a flavorful marinara sauce. With its perfect combination of savory and earthy flavors, this dish is hearty enough to be the star of any meal, yet light enough to enjoy any time.
Ingredients
For the Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 oz mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or a mix)
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
For the Sauce (Optional if using store-bought):
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
1. Prepare the Lasagna Noodles:
- If using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside. If using no-boil noodles, skip this step.
2. Prepare the Mushroom and Spinach Filling:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they release their moisture and become golden brown.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until wilted. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, half of the grated Parmesan, and fresh basil (if using). Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
4. Make the Tomato Sauce (if using homemade):
- In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to combine the flavors. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, half of the mushroom-spinach filling, and a portion of the shredded mozzarella. Add another layer of sauce.
- Repeat the layers: noodles, ricotta mixture, mushroom-spinach filling, mozzarella cheese, and sauce.
- For the top layer, finish with noodles, the remaining marinara sauce, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake the Lasagna:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. Serve:
- Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the layers to set.
- Garnish with fresh basil or additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Mushroom Options: You can use a variety of mushrooms such as cremini, shiitake, or portobello for a deeper flavor.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach works best in this recipe, but you can also use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
- No-boil noodles: No-boil lasagna noodles can be a real time-saver, as they soften during baking.
- Make Ahead: This lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. It also freezes well.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg