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Heavenly Ricotta Lasagna

A layered masterpiece of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and fresh vegetables, this lasagna provides comfort and satisfaction while evoking feelings of home-cooked happiness.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 289

Ingredients
  

Lasagna Base
  • 12 pieces lasagna noodles Consider whole wheat or gluten-free noodles as a substitute.
Cheeses
  • 15 oz ricotta cheese Cottage cheese can work in a pinch.
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Feel free to use low-fat mozzarella if preferred.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Use Pecorino cheese for a sharper taste.
Vegetables
  • 2 cups fresh spinach Kale or Swiss chard are great alternatives.
  • 2 cups marinara sauce Homemade or store-bought works wonderfully.
  • 1 piece zucchini, sliced Yellow squash is a lovely substitute.
  • 1 piece bell pepper, chopped Any color works well, or swap for carrots.
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced Use any variety you prefer.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Garlic powder can be a quick substitute.
Cooking Essentials
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Avocado or canola oil can be alternatives.
  • Fresh herbs (basil, parsley, oregano) Dried herbs can work, but use more if opting for dried.
  • Salt and pepper to taste For seasoning balance.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic, zucchini, bell pepper, and mushrooms until softened. Stir in spinach until wilted.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper.
Layering
  1. Spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
  2. Layer noodles, ricotta mixture, sautéed vegetables, and marinara sauce. Repeat layers, finishing with noodles topped with remaining marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Baking
  1. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  2. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  3. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

Let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes after baking for cleaner slicing. For extra flavor, sprinkle additional herbs on top before serving to garnish.