Sunday Baked Spinach Lasagna

Name: Sunday Baked Spinach Lasagna
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 9 lasagna noodles; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 2 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Rustic Collection

I love making Sunday Baked Spinach Lasagna; it’s a dish that brings comfort and warmth to my family gatherings. The layered combination of fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella creates a delightful harmony of flavors that everyone enjoys. I often prepare it on weekends, as it allows me to experiment with different herbs and spices, enhancing the taste. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while indulging in a rich, satisfying meal. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!

Created by

Loretta Winslow

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:55:35.047Z

Trying out new recipes can be both fun and rewarding, especially with a dish like this Sunday Baked Spinach Lasagna. I remember the first time I made it; I was eager to incorporate fresh spinach from my garden and layer it with a homemade marinara sauce. The visual appeal of the vibrant layers motivated me to perfect the balance of flavors, and it turned out to be a crowd-pleaser!

Over the years, I’ve learned that letting the lasagna rest for a few minutes after baking is crucial. This simple step helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve. Pair it with a fresh salad, and you'll have a delightful feast that’s perfect for family gatherings!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Layers of cheesy goodness with fresh spinach for a delicious twist.
The homemade marinara sauce enhances the overall flavor.
Perfect for meal prep; it freezes well for future cravings.

      

Mastering the Layering Technique

Layering is crucial to achieving the perfect lasagna texture and flavor balance. Start with your marinara sauce to create a flavorful base that prevents the noodles from sticking. Each layer should be evenly spread, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. A good tip is to reserve some marinara for topping; this keeps the lasagna moist while baking and creates beautifully caramelized edges on the cheese.

When adding the ricotta and spinach mixture, aim for a thickness of about half an inch. This helps maintain structure in the final dish. Use an offset spatula to spread the mixture easily, reaching all corners of the baking dish. If you prefer a richer flavor, feel free to add a layer of sautéed onions or mushrooms to the filling for an extra depth of taste.

Ingredient Substitutions and Dietary Swaps

This recipe is quite flexible regarding ingredient substitutions. For a healthier version, swap out the ricotta cheese for cottage cheese or a vegan alternative like cashew cream. You can also use whole-grain or gluten-free lasagna noodles if accommodating dietary restrictions. Always check the cooking instructions, as some no-boil noodles require additional moisture in the sauce.

If you're looking to amp up the flavor profile, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the ricotta mixture. This not only enhances taste but also adds a nice visual appeal. For an even creamier lasagna, mix in a bit of mascarpone cheese or cream cheese with the ricotta, creating a luscious filling that complements the spinach beautifully.

Ingredients

Lasagna Ingredients

9 lasagna noodles
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

Mix well and set aside for assembly.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Noodles

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Layer the Lasagna

In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Lay three noodles next, followed by half of the ricotta spinach mixture, and a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, ending with noodles topped with marinara and parmesan.

Bake the Lasagna

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let It Rest

Once baked, allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers to set and makes serving easier.

Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating roasted vegetables between the layers, or swap out the spinach for kale for a different twist. Fresh herbs can also elevate the dish significantly!

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best features of this lasagna is its make-ahead potential. You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. If you prefer freezing it, prep the lasagna to your liking, but don’t bake it right away. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then follow the baking instructions.

Reheating baked lasagna is straightforward. If you've made it ahead and stored it in the fridge, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 25-30 minutes. If reheating from frozen, cover with foil to maintain moisture and bake at the same temperature for about 45-60 minutes, or until heated through. Remember to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this spinach lasagna with a side salad amplifies the meal's enjoyment. I recommend a simple arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette for a fresh contrast to the rich layers. Additionally, a garlic bread or crispy breadsticks can complement the lasagna beautifully, soaking up any extra marinara sauce on the plate.

For a unique twist, consider adding a layer of roasted vegetables—like zucchini or bell peppers—between the pasta sheets. This not only increases the veggie content but adds textural variety. Each serving can be garnished with fresh basil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for an extra kick. Adjust the sides based on seasonal vegetables for year-round versatility.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

Yes, just make sure to add enough sauce to ensure they cook properly.

→ Is it possible to make this lasagna vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is already vegetarian and delicious as is.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add meat to this lasagna?

Certainly! Ground beef or turkey can be mixed into the marinara sauce for a meatier version.