Here’s a rich, indulgent recipe for Creamy Spinach & Mushroom Lasagna—a vegetarian comfort classic with a luscious béchamel, earthy mushrooms, and tender pasta layers.
Creamy Spinach & Mushroom Lasagna
Ingredients
Vegetable Filling
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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12 oz (340 g) mushrooms, sliced
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1 tsp dried thyme
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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5 cups fresh spinach (or 10 oz frozen, thawed and squeezed)
Cheese & Cream Sauce
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2 tbsp butter
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
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¼ tsp nutmeg
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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1 cup grated Parmesan
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2 cups shredded mozzarella (divided)
Lasagna Layers
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9–12 no-boil lasagna noodles (or pre-cooked)
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Optional: fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
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Preheat Oven
Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. -
Cook the Vegetables
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Sauté onion until translucent, 3–4 minutes.
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Add garlic and mushrooms, cook 5–6 minutes until mushrooms release liquid and brown slightly.
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Stir in spinach until wilted (or warmed if using frozen). Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Remove from heat.
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Make the Cream Sauce
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Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
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Stir in flour, cook 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
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Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and thickened, about 5–6 minutes.
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Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
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Remove from heat and stir in ricotta and ½ cup Parmesan for extra creaminess.
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Assemble the Lasagna
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Spread a thin layer of cream sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
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Layer noodles, half the vegetable mixture, more cream sauce, and ½ cup mozzarella.
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Repeat layers: noodles, remaining vegetables, cream sauce, ½ cup mozzarella.
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Top with final layer of noodles, remaining cream sauce, remaining mozzarella, and Parmesan.
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Bake
Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake 15–20 minutes more, until bubbly and golden on top. -
Rest & Serve
Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Tips
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Extra Flavor: Sauté mushrooms with a splash of white wine or soy sauce.
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Cheese Swap: Fontina or Gruyère works beautifully for a richer flavor.
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Make-Ahead: Assemble a day ahead and bake just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
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Crisp green salad with vinaigrette
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Garlic bread or cheesy focaccia
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Light red wine or sparkling water for a vegetarian feast
I can also create a gluten-free version, vegan creamy spinach lasagna, or a one-skillet stovetop shortcut if you want it even quicker.