Spinach Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients
- 15 lasagna noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup chopped fresh mushrooms
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cups ricotta cheese
- cup grated Romano cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil leaves
- teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cups tomato pasta sauce
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
1. Gather all the ingredients needed for this dish.
2. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C).
3. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add lasagna noodles and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain and set aside.
4. While the noodles cook, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped mushrooms, onions, and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are tender, then drain any excess liquid and let it cool.
5. In a separate small pot, bring water to a boil and add fresh spinach. Simmer for 5 minutes, then drain, cool slightly, squeeze out any excess liquid, and finely chop.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Romano cheese, egg, salt, dried oregano, dried basil, and ground black pepper. Mix well.
7. Add the cooled mushroom-onion mixture and chopped spinach to the ricotta mixture. Using an electric mixer on low speed, beat the ingredients together for 1 minute until well combined.
8. Spread 5 lasagna noodles on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
9. Top the noodles with one-third of the ricotta-spinach mixture, followed by 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese and cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Spread 1 cup of tomato pasta sauce over the cheese layer.
10. Repeat the layering process two more times: noodles, ricotta-spinach mixture, mozzarella, Parmesan, and pasta sauce.
11. Once all layers are assembled, cover the dish with aluminum foil.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
13. After baking, allow the lasagna to cool for 15 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 289
- Total Fat: 17g (21% Daily Value)
- Saturated Fat: 9g (44% Daily Value)
- Cholesterol: 50mg (17% Daily Value)
- Sodium: 851mg (37% Daily Value)
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g (5% Daily Value)
- Dietary Fiber: 2g (8% Daily Value)
- Protein: 20g (39% Daily Value)
- Vitamin C: 4mg (5% Daily Value)
- Calcium: 548mg (42% Daily Value)
- Iron: 1mg (7% Daily Value)
- Potassium: 382mg (8% Daily Value)
Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is based on available data and may not be complete for all ingredients.

Spinach lasagna is a delicious and nutritious variation of the traditional Italian lasagna, which typically contains meat. This vegetarian alternative replaces ground beef or pork with spinach and other vegetables, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying dish. Known for its layers of creamy ricotta, rich tomato sauce, and a hearty filling of spinach, this lasagna is a favorite for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Here's a deeper dive into the origins, regional variations, and interesting facts surrounding this iconic dish.
History of Spinach Lasagna
Lasagna is one of Italy's oldest and most beloved pasta dishes. The earliest records of lasagna date back to ancient Roman times, where the dish was made using layers of pasta, vegetables, and sauces. However, the lasagna we know today is attributed to the region of Emilia-Romagna in northern Italy. Over the centuries, the dish evolved with various regional twists, especially after the introduction of the tomato to Europe in the 16th century.
Spinach lasagna is a more modern variation, likely emerging as vegetarianism gained popularity in the 20th century. The use of spinach in place of meat not only makes it a lighter option but also adds a fresh, earthy flavor to the dish, making it a popular choice for those seeking a meat-free meal.
Regional Variations
In Italy, lasagna varies greatly depending on the region. In Emilia-Romagna, the dish is traditionally made with rich bchamel sauce and ground meat, while in southern Italy, it often includes mozzarella and ricotta cheese, with fewer layers. The spinach variation is more common in regions where vegetables like spinach are abundant, particularly in northern and central Italy.
Outside Italy, spinach lasagna has become a staple in many international cuisines, particularly in the United States, where it is often served in both home kitchens and restaurants as a comforting vegetarian option. This lasagna is also commonly seen in Mediterranean and health-conscious variations around the world, where people seek to incorporate more vegetables into their diet.
What Makes It Different from Other Lasagna Recipes?
The main difference between spinach lasagna and traditional meat lasagna is, of course, the filling. While classic lasagna is made with ground meat (usually beef, pork, or a combination of the two), spinach lasagna swaps out the meat for spinach, ricotta, and other vegetables. This makes it lighter and a great option for those who prefer plant-based meals. The creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, along with the tangy tomato sauce, provide a rich, satisfying flavor that doesnt compromise on taste, despite the absence of meat.
Additionally, spinach lasagna often has a more vibrant, greenish hue, thanks to the spinach, making it visually distinct from the traditional red and meaty version. Some recipes also add other vegetables, like mushrooms or artichokes, to enhance the flavor and texture.
Where Is Spinach Lasagna Typically Served?
Spinach lasagna is commonly served in Italian restaurants worldwide, particularly in those offering vegetarian or Mediterranean menus. It is a popular choice during the colder months due to its hearty, comforting nature. Youll also find it at family gatherings, holiday meals, and potlucks, as it is easy to prepare in large batches and can be made ahead of time.
In addition to Italian eateries, spinach lasagna has made its way onto the menus of health-focused cafes and vegetarian-friendly establishments, where its often paired with a light salad or a glass of white wine, making it the perfect dish for a cozy dinner with friends or family.
Interesting Facts About Spinach Lasagna
- The word "lasagna" comes from the Greek word "laganon," which refers to flat sheets of dough cut into strips. The modern lasagna evolved from this ancient dish.
- Spinach is a nutrient powerhouse, rich in iron, vitamins A and C, and folate. By using spinach in your lasagna, you're adding not just flavor, but a host of health benefits as well.
- Many versions of spinach lasagna can be made ahead of time and frozen. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or for making a large batch for later use.
- In some parts of Italy, lasagna is a traditional dish served on holidays like Christmas and Easter, where families gather and celebrate together. Spinach lasagna, being vegetarian, is also a suitable option for meatless days such as Good Friday in Catholic traditions.
Conclusion
Spinach lasagna is a beloved variation of the classic Italian dish that offers a fresh, vegetarian twist on the traditional recipe. Whether you're looking for a comforting family meal, a holiday feast, or a satisfying dish to bring to a gathering, spinach lasagna is sure to impress. With its rich flavors, nutritious ingredients, and flexible nature, it has earned its place in kitchens around the world as a delicious and wholesome alternative to the classic meat lasagna.
FAQ about Spinach Lasagna Recipe
Comments
SARAHWILKERSON
10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM
Fantastic! Our new favorite lasagna recipe. A few changes: I chopped the raw spinach and sauteed it with the onions, mushrooms, and garlic until onions were tender-crisp. I was skeptical about using a whole onion, but it really provided extra flavor and texture. Also, I omitted the parmesan (which appears in the directions but not in the ingredient list) and just sprinkled extra romano on the last layer. I wasn't sure where I was supposed to end up with the layering process, so after the romano, I topped it off with a layer of noodles, my last bit of sauce, and a good sprinkling of mozzarella cheese. For the sake of evennness throughout, next time I will alter the layering portions to 2c filling (three inside layers), 3/4c cheese (three inside layers plus top), and just over 3/4c sauce (three inside layers plus top). Thanks Robbie for the recipe!!!
maree d
08/20/2023 05:45:54 PM
Delicious recipe with ravings from guests. Only factor was the instructions; way too wonky and poorly written. Add chopped spinach to the mushroom/onion mixture to cook only until wilted. As everyone states…each layer should have 3-4 lasagna noodles (3 worked well). Increase spinach to 3 cups & add an egg to ricotta mixture. Do NOT waste energy using a mixer for spinach/mushrooms/onion!!
Jennifer Dorney Desjardins
12/31/2023 02:09:05 PM
This recipe rocks! I sauteed the spinach with the mushrooms, garlic and onions. I also increased the spinach to 6 cups the mushrooms to 3 cups and used 2 med onions. 4 lasagna noodles in the pan worked fabulous, 3 didn't cover the bottom and 5 is way to much. It was a hit!! Made this for Christmas dinner, and I'm making it again for a party next weekend! We love it!!!
Kate
12/18/2020 07:47:57 PM
It’s tasty. I’d submit a photo but the size limit prevents me. Pro tip: don’t try to shred the mozzarella. Just slice it. Also, directions are incomplete. As written, you’ll have five noodles left over. Instead, make a fourth layer of noodles and sprinkle with additional Parmesan and/Romano and more slices of mozzarella. Then bake for 30 minutes covered with aluminum foils (spray underside with cooking spray or tent to ensure cheese and foil don’t touch). Then remove foil. Bake for another 30 minutes uncovered so cheese browns. I’d make it again.
Bruce C.
07/07/2021 04:39:11 PM
This is the best spinach lasagna recipe I've made. To simplify the prep I used a large saute pan with a lid. I sauted first the onions for a minute, then added the garlic and mushrooms and sauted all of that for another minute or so, then added fresh spinach leaves on top and covered it all with the lid until the spinach steamed and softened (about 5 minutes). I also used twice as much spinach as called for (20 oz instead of 10.)
Donna Schwartz Gudmestad
11/20/2018 10:42:05 PM
Delicious! I made it with no boil noodles, 1 lb of fresh spinach added 8oz cottage cheese and doubled the sauce. It was a hit with the family and the neighbors! This one’s a keeper!
MaggieNM
08/30/2019 04:56:37 AM
I didn’t bother with lasagna noodles. Just used bow tie pasta cooked to al dente. Used a lot more spinach (frozen, chopped). less ricotta, no egg, more mozzarella. Also added my secret ingredient: PESTO. Added a generous tablespoon of it (Costco brand) to the spinach mixture. As others commented...no need to cook spinach separately or using a mixer. I Sprayed the dish well with Pam before adding sauce as the bottom layer, then kept layering pasta, spinach mix, mozzarella, and sauce. Didn’t measure at all. I poured a few tablespoons of water over the top before covering and baking as the pasta will absorb more water and you don’t want it all to dry out. I call this dish LASAGNISH as I use other pasta instead of lasagna noodles (too much trouble.) This gets RAVE reviews at potlucks where it is especially appreciated by non-meat eaters.
Kirsten Herman
10/22/2019 12:22:45 AM
Delicious. Picking up on some other reviews, I used 4 c. of mushrooms, around 12 oz of frozen spinach (that I microwaved and drained prior to cooking), a jar of artichokes, and sauteed it all in one pan. I couldn't find romano cheese so I substituted around 1/3 c. of parmesan. I forgot the egg but it was fine without it. I didn't use a mixer but just stirred the veggie and cheese filling vigorously with a large spoon. I also used more tomato sauce and no cook noodles. This all made for a very large lasagna that spilled over a bit but it was totally worth it.
Jay Irwin
12/11/2019 01:17:00 AM
I absolutely love this recipe and have made it now 4 times. I have made some changes to it. I put many more mushrooms in than what is called for and added Nebiola Blanco, Maitake, Shitake, Crimini, and Portobello. I also saute'd the spinach with olive oil and garlic, and used a ton! A ton, and it's amazing. Full large onion and 5 garlic cloves. All amazing and went all organic.
Aaron A
03/01/2017 01:12:05 AM
Wow!!!!!!!!!! I haven't made a ton of lasagna in my days but I sure have eaten them. This recipe is impressive. The amounts are spot on except you will want one more layer of everything but ricotta for the top and a small amount of sauce on the bottom. I have always had excess filling with past recipes but not with this recipe which is a huge relief to not waste anything. I used a no boil lasagna noodle and sauted my spinach in the pan I used for onions and mushrooms with a little chicken stock. Then I squeezed a ton of liquid out of the spinach to ensure it didnt water anything down. Used a homemade tomato sauce. This is the best lasagna I have ever made and one of the top five I have eaten. I usually shy away from meatless dinners but the mushrooms I cut thick definitely kept me from noticing a lack of meat. My wife enjoyed this as much as I did. Wow wow wow! Wow!!!
Beeg
03/06/2018 03:42:16 AM
Yes Added 2tbsp tomato paste to Muir Glen pasta sauce. Also sautéed green and red bell peppers, celery, carrots and 1/2 small jar sun dried tomatoes chopped to sauce along with 2 tsp each oregano and basil. Only had 16 Oz ricotta so added 8oz low fat cream cheese. Used 1 bunch of fresh spinach and probably could have used 2. Did not use mushrooms as we don’t like them. Used 12 lasagna noodles. Not sure how 20 would fit a 9x13 dish. all else as written. Came out beautifully. Cuts well. And for you green-o-phobes you don’t even notice the spinach. Adds texture mostly. This is a keeper
marniemaxson
09/03/2025 08:54:54 PM
I have made this several times in the last few months, and love it! I only changed using gluten free no bake noodles! Thanks for such a great dish.
WittyPrawn6467
05/27/2025 12:48:21 AM
Great recipe! I tweaked some of the measurements because it was too much. I started off with pre measuring my lasagna sheets onto the pan & went on from there!
Emily Davis
02/11/2025 01:59:07 AM
Literally WOW 😱
Nathan Green
10/30/2024 03:11:41 PM
So good, I’m hooked.
Roseanne Viau-Dolan
08/20/2024 03:22:46 PM
I add a dash or two of Nutmeg to the Ricotta Spinach mixture. I also sautéed Spinach with Mushrooms and Garlic. I like to top Spinach Lasagna with a type of creamy sauce such as Alfredo for a change. So delicious!
Barbara McGaughran
08/18/2024 02:14:03 PM
Sounds good- I make very similar, but cook raw spinach in mushroom/onion skillets- it wilts fast and cook with lid off until liquid is gone. Saves a pot and keeps more nutrients in that would be lost in boiling water.
AmberYuzu3288
06/21/2024 12:43:39 PM
I made this lasagna for a wedding. It was a big hit. But I increased most of the components.With exception of the noodles, only used 4 per layer not five. Didn’t increased the ricotta.
Cathy
05/05/2024 10:07:45 PM
I always use raw baby spinach leaves torn apart and put it as one of the layers and it always comes out perfect!
Ines
04/02/2023 02:30:12 AM
There is no way you can layer 5 lasagna noodles in a 9x13 casserole. I also don’t think this recipe uses enough spinach. I used 5-6 cups. I lined 3 noodles and layered them 3 times.