A comforting vegetarian lasagna layered with a creamy béchamel, sautéed vegetables, and melted mozzarella, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Prep Time 30 minutesminutes
Cook Time 45 minutesminutes
Total Time 1 hourhour15 minutesminutes
Serving Size 8servings
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
9pieceslasagna noodlesRegular or no-boil; see notes
2cupsmarinara sauce
2cupsBéchamel sauce(butter, flour, milk, pinch of nutmeg)
Vegetables
2cupsfresh spinach
1cupmushrooms, sliced
1mediumzucchini, sliced
1mediumbell pepper, diced
1smallonion, finely choppedOptional
Cheese
2cupsshredded mozzarella cheese
1cupricotta cheese
1/4cupgrated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning
to tastesalt
to tastepepper
1–2tablespoonsolive oilFor sautéing
Instructions
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside. If using no-boil noodles, follow package directions for layering but with slightly more sauce.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add optional chopped onion if using, then sauté zucchini, bell pepper, and mushrooms until softened and moisture has evaporated (about 6–8 minutes).
Stir in spinach and cook until just wilted. Season with salt and pepper, taste, and adjust as necessary.
Assembly
Spread a thin layer of marinara across the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking.
Layer noodles over the sauce. Spoon and spread half the sautéed vegetables over the noodles, dollop and spread half the ricotta, then sprinkle with 2/3 cup mozzarella.
Finish with a final layer of noodles. Pour béchamel over the top, spreading gently. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
Baking
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra browning if desired.
Let the lasagna cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Notes
For gluten-free, use GF noodles and flour for the béchamel or a cornstarch slurry. For vegan, swap béchamel for cashew cream, and use plant-based cheeses. Letting the lasagna rest is crucial for neat slices.