Description
Creamy Spinach Mushroom Lasagna
Cheese lovers, rejoice! This spinach mushroom lasagna is loaded with three types of cheese.
Ingredients:
10 lasagna noodles
2 cups fresh spinach
2 cups mushrooms
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
2 cups creamy béchamel sauce
Steps:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Sauté mushrooms and spinach in olive oil.
Layer noodles, béchamel, ricotta, mushrooms, and mozzarella.
Sprinkle Parmesan on top and bake for 30-35 minutes.
#CheesyLasagnaJoy
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente, then drain and lay flat on a sheet of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they release their moisture and brown. Add the fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
3. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with a 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan.
4. To assemble, spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom of the prepared dish. Place a layer of noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the mushroom-spinach mixture. Drizzle with béchamel and sprinkle with mozzarella. Repeat the layers (noodles, ricotta, vegetables, béchamel, mozzarella).
5. For the final top layer, place the remaining noodles, cover with the last of the béchamel sauce, and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and the final 1/4 cup of Parmesan.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
This rich lasagna pairs perfectly with a light, crisp side to balance the creamy richness. Serve with a simple arugula salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette, or some garlic breadsticks. For a complete meal, add a side of roasted cherry tomatoes or steamed green beans.
How-to Summary
This creamy lasagna is built in layers: cooked noodles, a ricotta-Parmesan blend, sautéed mushrooms and spinach, béchamel sauce, and mozzarella cheese. The key steps are cooking the vegetables to remove excess moisture, layering evenly, and letting it rest after baking for clean slices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles? Yes, you can. You may need to add a little extra béchamel or a splash of water to the sauce layers to ensure the noodles cook through properly.
How can I make this vegetarian lasagna ahead of time? Assemble the lasagna completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time.
Can I substitute the béchamel? While béchamel is classic for a creamy texture, you can use a high-quality store-bought Alfredo sauce in a pinch.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Can I freeze this lasagna? Absolutely. Bake, cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using raw, watery vegetables, as they will make the lasagna soggy—always sauté mushrooms and spinach first. Do not skip letting the lasagna rest after baking; this allows the layers to set for perfect slices. Finally, ensure your béchamel sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon; a thin sauce will not provide structure.
Conclusion
This Spinach Mushroom Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, offering a decadent, creamy texture and deep, savory flavors in every bite. By following the detailed steps and tips, you can create a stunning, restaurant-quality dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Its make-ahead flexibility makes it perfect for both busy weeknights and special gatherings.