When the craving for a cozy and satisfying meal strikes, few dishes are as comforting as lasagna. This Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna is a delightful vegetarian recipe that caters to everyone, even meat lovers. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this easy lasagna recipe is perfect for fall dinners, Thanksgiving celebrations, or any time you want a hearty, meatless meal that warms the soul.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna is more than just a healthy pasta bake; it’s a dish that combines rich flavors, creamy textures, and nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian main dish for Thanksgiving, a quick weeknight dinner, or a dish that impresses meat lovers with its depth of flavor, this lasagna checks all the boxes. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Comfort Food: This lasagna is layered with gooey cheese, a luscious tomato sauce, and creamy spinach, making it the ultimate comfort food.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with vegetables and made with whole-grain lasagna sheets, it’s a healthier spin on a classic dish.
- Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet look and taste, this lasagna is straightforward to prepare, even for beginner cooks.
- Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a vegetarian recipe that meat lovers adore, making it perfect for gatherings and holidays.
Ingredients for Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna
To create this mouthwatering lasagna, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 500g (about 1 lb) mushrooms, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 can (800g/28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Spinach Layer:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 300g (10 oz) fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
- 250g (1 cup) ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna sheets (whole-grain or regular)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms, oregano, and thyme. Cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and begin to brown, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and sugar (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the sauce simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the fresh basil just before removing it from the heat.
2. Prepare the Spinach Layer
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a creamy filling.
3. Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Spread a thin layer of the mushroom sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Place a layer of lasagna sheets on top of the sauce.
- Spread half of the spinach and ricotta mixture over the lasagna sheets.
- Top with a layer of the mushroom sauce, followed by a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella.
- Repeat the layers: lasagna sheets, the remaining spinach mixture, mushroom sauce, and mozzarella.
- Finish with a final layer of lasagna sheets, the remaining mushroom sauce, and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Best Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms, spinach, and herbs make a significant difference in flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the lasagna to rest after baking helps it set and makes slicing easier.
- Customize to Your Taste: Add red chili flakes for a spicy kick or swap ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter option.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for a stress-free meal.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is all about indulgence and bringing people together over a delicious meal. This vegetarian lasagna is an excellent addition to your Thanksgiving spread. Its creamy, cheesy layers pair beautifully with traditional sides like roasted vegetables, cranberry sauce, and salads. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for guests who prefer meatless dishes.
Health Benefits of Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna
This lasagna isn’t just delicious; it’s packed with nutrients:
- Mushrooms: Rich in antioxidants, B vitamins, and minerals like selenium.
- Spinach: A powerhouse of iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K.
- Ricotta and Parmesan: Provide protein and calcium to support bone health.
- Whole-Grain Lasagna Sheets: Add fiber and keep you fuller for longer.
Variations to Try
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna sheets or thinly sliced zucchini as a substitute.
- Vegan: Swap the ricotta and mozzarella for plant-based alternatives and use flaxseed as an egg replacement.
- Add More Vegetables: Include layers of roasted zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This lasagna is a meal on its own, but you can elevate it with these side dishes:
- A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette
- A glass of red wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Why Meat Lovers Will Love This Dish
The umami flavor of the mushrooms and the hearty, creamy texture of the spinach and cheese layers make this lasagna satisfying even for those who typically prefer meat dishes. It’s a great way to introduce more meatless meals into your diet without sacrificing flavor or comfort.
Final Thoughts
This Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna is the perfect balance of health, comfort, and flavor. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, a meatless fall gathering, or a Thanksgiving feast, this recipe is sure to impress. Packed with nutrients and bursting with taste, it’s a dish that’s easy to make, loved by vegetarians and meat lovers alike, and guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of comfort and joy with this healthy vegetarian lasagna recipe!
English 
French 
Spanish 
Portuguese