Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

45 min.
Discover Italian traditions with our spinach and ricotta lasagna. It combines the gentle taste of fresh spinach with rich ricotta cheese, nestled between layers of ricotta lasagna sheets, Puck Bechamel sauce with cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for family and dinner parties, this recipe delivers an elegant and tasty experience, inviting you to enjoy each bite of its creamy, flavorful fillings.

Ingredients

4 servings

Filling:

To assemble:

Instructions

  • Filling:

  • To assemble:

Questions about spinach and ricotta lasagna

We have gathered answers to your most common questions to help you make this classic lasagna with ricotta and spinach.
Can I make spinach and ricotta lasagna in advance?

Yes, you can make the lasagna ahead of time. Assemble the lasagna and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day before baking it. When you are ready to bake it, bring it to room temperature or adjust the baking time if it is still cold. You can also bake the lasagna in advance and then store it whole.

How do I store leftover lasagna?

To store leftover lasagna, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. If you need to store it longer, freeze it. Wrap it tightly in cling film and aluminium foil to prevent freezer burn. Store it for up to 3 months. You can store it whole or wrap individual slices for easy serving later.

What is the best way to reheat lasagna?

For the best results, reheat lasagna in the oven. Preheat your oven to 180 °C, cover the lasagna with aluminium foil so it does not dry out, and bake for about 20–30 minutes or until heated through. For a crispier top, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but you get the best moist texture and crisp top in the oven.

Can I replace fresh spinach with frozen in the lasagna?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh in your spinach and ricotta lasagna. To replace the 400 grams of fresh spinach called for in the recipe, you will need about 250 grams of frozen spinach. Thaw the frozen spinach in the fridge overnight, or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once thawed, remove as much excess water as possible to prevent your lasagna from becoming too watery. To do this, place the spinach in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and wring out the water thoroughly. After this, proceed with the recipe.

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Let it rest before serving

After baking, let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes before cutting and serving. This allows the layers enough time to set and makes it easier to cut neat portions. The resting period also helps the flavors meld together.

Keep it moist

Cover the lasagna with aluminium foil for the first 20 minutes of baking to keep it moist. Remove the foil for the remaining 10 minutes to allow the top to brown and become crispy.

Cooking lasagna sheets

For the best texture, cook the lasagna sheets until al dente, meaning firm to the bite. This ensures they retain their structure during baking and can absorb moisture from the béchamel and spinach-ricotta mixture. Boil the sheets in salted water, cooking them for 2 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain and lay them flat to prevent sticking. The sheets continue cooking in the oven, melding with the sauce and fillings without becoming mushy, resulting in a well-structured and flavorful lasagna.

Enjoy our recipe for delicious spinach and ricotta lasagna

Indulge in some real comfort food with this delicious lasagna with spinach and ricotta. This bright green filling keeps the lasagna moist and tender. Layered with béchamel sauce and topped with Parmesan, it achieves a perfect balance of rich, creamy, and savory elements. It is a hit with kids and adults alike, ensuring cheesy goodness with each bite.

For more delicious pasta dishes, try our chicken fettuccine Alfredo, a Mediterranean pasta salad with Feta Cheese, or a salmon lasagna.

Creamy ricotta cheese and spinach filling

The creamy ricotta cheese and spinach filling is the heart of this lasagna. It offers a deliciously rich and smooth texture that elevates every layer. The ricotta adds a rich creaminess, making each bite wonderfully velvety and indulgent. Fresh spinach brings a subtle earthiness with its tender, slightly wilted texture that provides a delightful contrast to the creamy ricotta. The vibrant green of the spinach adds a pop of colour and infuses the dish with a fresh, wholesome note that makes you want to try it again and again.

Layers of rich béchamel sauce and Parmesan cheese

The cheesy béchamel sauce adds a creamy and velvety richness to the lasagna. In the sauce, classic béchamel spices like nutmeg and white pepper enhance the flavor and blend seamlessly with the ricotta mixture. Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty contrast that boosts the overall flavor, making the lasagna more full-bodied. Sprinkled between layers of ricotta filling and creamy white sauce, Parmesan melts smoothly within the layers and forms a crispy crust on top when baked.

With the perfect golden crust

A delightful, golden crust makes for a nice contrast to the soft layers underneath. The cheese-infused béchamel sauce is the key to this crust as it melts and bubbles as it bakes. This forms a rich, golden-brown layer that is quite irresistible. Topping the lasagna with a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese enhances this effect, as Parmesan crisps up beautifully in the oven.

Serve with light and fresh sides

To balance the creamy richness in the ricotta and spinach lasagna, serve it with fresh sides. A crisp salad dressed in tangy dressing offers a refreshing contrast.

Lightly steamed vegetables also make a great accompaniment. Season a colorful selection like broccoli, carrots, and green beans with salt, pepper, and a dash of lemon. Also, consider a fresh Caprese salad featuring sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze.

Garlic bread is a comforting side that pairs beautifully with lasagna. Its crunchy texture and fragrant garlic flavor are perfect for soaking up the rich sauce. Alternatively, herb focaccia and tomato bruschetta also provide delightful, flavorful complements to the lasagna.

Make it your own

Add a personal touch by sprinkling toasted pine nuts between the layers for a satisfying crunch and rich, nutty flavor. For cheese lovers, incorporate slices of fresh mozzarella for an extra gooey and cheesy experience that melds beautifully with the béchamel and ricotta.

Introduce a burst of flavor by adding dollops of pesto between the layers, which offer a harmonious blend of basil, garlic, and pine nuts. It pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese and spinach. Fresh basil leaves can also infuse a fragrant, herbal note that enhances the overall flavor.

For a twist on a classic lasagna, layer with a rich tomato sauce along with the spinach and ricotta mixture. The acidity and sweetness of the tomato sauce balance out the creamy béchamel, adding a vibrant, savory flavor and beautiful colour contrast.

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