Description
Spinach and Mushroom White Lasagna is a delightful and creamy variation of the classic Italian lasagna, featuring a rich white sauce, sautéed mushrooms, and fresh spinach layered between tender sheets of pasta. This vegetarian-friendly lasagna is both comforting and wholesome, offering a delicious balance of earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy béchamel sauce. Perfect for cozy family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you want to serve a satisfying dish full of flavor, this lasagna is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (button mushrooms, cremini, or a mix)
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
For the Béchamel Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups milk (whole milk is preferred for a richer sauce)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
- Make the Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously to create a smooth roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden, but not browned.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in the dried thyme or Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Sauté the Mushrooms: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and browned. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the mushrooms and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
Assemble the Lasagna:
- Cook the Lasagna Noodles: If using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. If using no-boil noodles, skip this step.
- Layer the Lasagna: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce, then add a third of the mushroom and spinach mixture, followed by a third of the ricotta cheese, a third of the mozzarella cheese, and a third of the béchamel sauce. Repeat the layers two more times, ending with a layer of béchamel sauce and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake the Lasagna: Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Serve the Lasagna:
- Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 15g