If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that captures the rich flavors of earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach, then this Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a luscious combination of creamy ricotta, tender noodles, and a silky white sauce, all layered to perfection and baked until golden and bubbly. Whether you’re feeding a big family or bringing a dish to a potluck, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for cozy, satisfying meals that feel like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna Recipe plays an essential role, whether it’s adding depth, creaminess, or that irresistible cheesy top. Simple yet thoughtfully selected, these components come together to create the ultimate balance of taste, texture, and color.
- 4 Tbsp. butter, unsalted: Provides richness and is the base for both the sauté and the sauce.
- 1/2 cup white onion or shallot, finely diced: Adds gentle sweetness and a subtle aromatic layer.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that pairs beautifully with mushrooms and spinach.
- 1 tsp. kosher salt and a few grinds black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors evenly.
- 8 oz. white mushrooms, finely chopped: Adds umami and a wonderful meaty texture to the filling.
- 1 Tbsp. Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the dish that unmistakable Italian flair.
- 16 oz. frozen spinach, thawed and drained: Infuses vibrant green color and tender leafy goodness.
- 30 oz. whole milk ricotta: Creates a creamy, smooth layer with a mild, fresh flavor.
- 1/2 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, finely grated: Adds a salty, nutty kick for depth and complexity.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ricotta mixture to keep it nice and firm when baked.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Offers a refreshing burst of herbal brightness.
- 8 oz. low moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided: Melts perfectly to create that classic, gooey lasagna top.
- 1 lb. lasagna noodles (about 20 noodles): The perfectly tender layers that hold everything together.
- 5 Tbsp. butter, unsalted: For the white sauce’s roux, lending smoothness and flavor.
- 5 Tbsp. flour: Thickens the white sauce to creamy perfection.
- 5 cups whole milk, room temperature: The luscious liquid base of the sauce that ensures silky texture.
- 1/2 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, finely grated: Mixed into the sauce for that cheesy backbone.
- 1 tsp. kosher salt, or more to taste: Balances and enhances the sauce flavors.
- A few grinds black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg: A warming touch that lifts the white sauce beautifully.
How to Make Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
Start by thawing your frozen spinach and squeezing out every bit of excess water. I love using a steamer basket or even cheesecloth to wring it dry instead of paper towels — it’s so much quicker and gets the spinach perfectly dry. This step is crucial because you want each lasagna layer to be creamy but not soggy.
Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your lasagna noodles until they are just al dente. Then, drain and rinse them with cold water to stop cooking. Lay them flat on parchment paper, drizzling a little olive oil over the noodles so they don’t stick when you assemble the layers later. It makes the whole assembly process so much easier and less frustrating.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms
In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Toss in your finely diced onions along with salt and pepper, sautéing for 2 to 3 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add in minced garlic and cook for one more minute before stirring in the chopped mushrooms and Italian seasoning. Cook until the mushrooms shrink and all their liquid evaporates — about 7 to 10 minutes. Finally, fold in the drained spinach and season with a little extra salt and pepper, then set this savory mixture aside to cool.
Step 4: Combine the Ricotta Mixture
While the spinach and mushroom mix cools, grab a large bowl and stir together whole milk ricotta, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, half the shredded mozzarella, eggs, and fresh parsley. Once the sautéed vegetables have cooled enough, gently fold the ricotta mixture into them until evenly combined. This layer is what makes your lasagna irresistibly creamy and full of flavor.
Step 5: Make the White Sauce
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt 5 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux, cooking it for about one minute. Next, slowly add room temperature whole milk, whisking constantly after each addition to avoid lumps. Keep whisking over medium heat until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and stir in Parmigiano Reggiano, salt, freshly ground pepper, and a pinch of ground nutmeg. This sauce brings an elegant creaminess that really makes this Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna Recipe special.
Step 6: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start the assembly by spreading about half a cup of white sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch oven-safe pan, just enough to coat the base. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, tearing them to fit if needed. Next, spread one third of your spinach and mushroom ricotta mixture evenly on top, followed by half a cup of white sauce. Repeat the layering process two more times (noodles, ricotta mixture, white sauce), finishing with one last noodle layer. Pour the remaining white sauce over the top and sprinkle the last of your mozzarella cheese for that classic melty finish.
Step 7: Bake the Lasagna
Cover the lasagna with a sheet of foil, spraying the side touching the lasagna with non-stick spray to keep the cheese from sticking. Bake covered for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden. If you want an extra crispy top, a few minutes under the broiler works wonders — just watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn. Once baked, allow the lasagna to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing — this resting time helps everything set beautifully.
How to Serve Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a light dusting of extra Parmigiano Reggiano right before serving adds a burst of freshness and a touch of elegance that complements the hearty layers perfectly.
Side Dishes
This lasagna pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables, which offer contrast to the dish’s richness and elevate your meal into a complete, balanced feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at your next gathering, serve individual portions in small ramekins for personal lasagnas. You can even layer with grilled zucchini slices instead of noodles to make it gluten-free while keeping that amazing flavor profile intact.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. It will keep wonderfully in the fridge for 3 to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade meals throughout the week.
Freezing
This Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the entire dish in foil and then plastic wrap, or portion into freezer-safe containers before freezing. Use within 2 to 3 months for best flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftover lasagna covered with foil in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and bubbly, about 20 to 30 minutes. Alternatively, use the microwave for a quicker option, but watch for even heating to keep the layers creamy and intact.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach works great but you’ll need to cook it down and drain it well before using to avoid excess moisture, which can make your lasagna watery.
Do I have to use ricotta cheese?
Ricotta is key for that creamy, mild flavor, but you could substitute with cottage cheese if needed, just be sure to blend it smooth first for a similar texture.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To veganize this dish, swap dairy cheese for plant-based alternatives and use a cashew cream or tofu-based ricotta. Also, replace eggs in the ricotta mixture with a flax egg or other binder.
Is it okay to prepare the lasagna a day ahead?
Definitely! Assembling it the day before allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just cover tightly and keep refrigerated until you’re ready to bake.
What is the best way to prevent the noodles from sticking?
Always drain them well and drizzle lightly with olive oil as soon as they’re cooled. This keeps each strand separate and makes layering easier.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about homemade lasagna, especially when it stars fresh vegetables like spinach and mushrooms in a creamy, cheesy embrace. This Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna Recipe is proof that vegetarian dishes can be just as rich, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing as any meaty alternative. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming one of your favorite recipes to make again and again!
Print
Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna is a comforting and hearty vegetarian dish featuring layers of tender lasagna noodles, a creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheese mixture combined with spinach and sautéed mushrooms, all brought together with a rich homemade white sauce. Baked until bubbly and golden, this lasagna is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1/2 cup white onion or shallot, finely diced
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz. white mushrooms, finely chopped
- 16 oz. frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Cheese & Dairy
- 30 oz. whole milk ricotta
- 1/2 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, finely grated (plus an additional 1/2 cup for white sauce)
- 8 oz. low moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded, divided
- 2 large eggs
- 5 cups whole milk, room temperature
- 9 Tbsp. unsalted butter (4 Tbsp. + 5 Tbsp.)
Dry Goods & Seasoning
- 1 tsp. kosher salt and a few grinds black pepper (for mushrooms)
- 1 Tbsp. Italian seasoning
- 1 lb. lasagna noodles (about 20 noodles)
- 5 Tbsp. flour
- 1 tsp. kosher salt, or more to taste (for white sauce)
- A few grinds black pepper (for white sauce)
- 1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Prepare Spinach: Thaw the frozen spinach thoroughly and squeeze out all excess liquid using a metal steamer basket or cheesecloth for best results to prevent watery lasagna layers.
- Cook Lasagna Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles until al dente according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and lay them flat on parchment sheets. Drizzle lightly with olive oil to keep them from sticking while assembling.
- Sauté Onions and Mushrooms: In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, melt 4 Tbsp. unsalted butter. Add the diced onions with salt and pepper and sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for one more minute. Then add finely chopped mushrooms and Italian seasoning, cooking until the mushrooms release their moisture and the liquid evaporates, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the drained spinach, seasoning again to taste. Set aside to cool.
- Combine Ricotta Mixture: In a large bowl, blend together the whole milk ricotta, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano, eggs, and chopped parsley. Once the spinach and mushroom mixture has cooled, fold this cheese mixture in until fully combined.
- Make White Sauce (Béchamel): In a heavy bottom saucepan, melt 5 Tbsp. butter over medium heat. Whisk in 5 Tbsp. flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute without browning. Gradually add the 5 cups of room temperature whole milk in small increments, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue whisking over medium heat until the sauce thickens and comes to a boil. Remove from heat, then stir in 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking your assembled lasagna.
- Assemble Lasagna – Layer 1: Pour about 1/2 cup of the white sauce into the bottom of a 9×13-inch oven-safe baking dish to coat evenly.
- Assemble Lasagna – Layer 2: Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, tearing pieces to fit and cover evenly.
- Assemble Lasagna – Layer 3: Spread one third of the spinach, mushroom, and ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles. Spoon about 1/2 cup of white sauce on top of this layer.
- Repeat Layers: Add another layer of noodles, followed by the remaining spinach mixture and white sauce. Repeat once more for a total of three layers of noodles and filling.
- Final Assembly: Place one final layer of noodles on top, pour the remaining white sauce over it, and sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Lightly spray one side of a piece of aluminum foil with non-stick spray and cover the dish with the greased side facing down onto the lasagna. Bake covered for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Optionally, broil for a few minutes to brown the top further, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the lasagna to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving to let the layers set perfectly.
Notes
- Ensure spinach is thoroughly drained to avoid watery layers in the lasagna.
- Tearing noodles to fit the pan helps in achieving nice even layering.
- Using room temperature milk prevents lumps in the white sauce.
- Let the lasagna cool before slicing to maintain intact layers.
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen one by properly thawing and draining it as described.
- Broiling at the end is optional but adds a lovely browned crust.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian