Sunday Baked Spinach Lasagna

Name: Sunday Baked Spinach Lasagna
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 9 lasagna noodles; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 2 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Classic Favorites

I absolutely love making this Sunday Baked Spinach Lasagna, especially when I have friends and family over. There's something magical about layering the creamy ricotta with fresh spinach and rich marinara sauce that brings a cheerful vibe to any gathering. The aroma wafting through the house while it bakes is simply irresistible, and when it's time to serve, everyone gathers around the table with excitement. This dish not only fills your belly but warms your heart, making it the perfect addition to our Sunday tradition of shared meals.

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:59:35.040Z

Creating this lasagna has become a special weekend ritual for me. I start by sautéing garlic until fragrant, followed by adding fresh spinach until it wilts. This simple step brings out an incredible flavor that pairs perfectly with the ricotta. Sometimes, I even toss in a pinch of nutmeg for an unexpected twist that elevates the taste!

The best part about this recipe is that it holds together beautifully when sliced. I use a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for top layering, ensuring a golden crust that is both crispy and cheesy. Trust me, once you try this, it will become your favorite comfort food.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Layers of creamy ricotta and fresh spinach create a delightful flavor combination.
A cheese-laden crust that turns crispy and golden brown.
A great dish for make-ahead meals and easy entertaining.

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When making Sunday Baked Spinach Lasagna, the quality of your ingredients can elevate the dish significantly. Fresh spinach not only offers better flavor and nutrients but also retains more texture throughout the layers. If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could make the lasagna soggy.

Similarly, using high-quality ricotta and marinara sauce will make a noticeable difference in the final taste. Look for brands that use simple, wholesome ingredients. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even make your marinara from scratch, which allows you to control the sweetness and acidity to complement the creaminess of the ricotta.

Perfect Layering for Optimal Texture

Layering the ingredients correctly is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your lasagna. Ensure that the marinara sauce is bordered on all sides by noodles and cheese; this prevents the edges from becoming dry. Additionally, using a mix of cheeses creates a satisfying richness. I like to alternate mozzarella and parmesan because the mozzarella melts beautifully, while the parmesan adds a sharper flavor and pleasant crunch when baked.

Don’t skimp on the sauce between the layers! It allows for better cohesion and flavor infusion. If you’re using low-moisture mozzarella, consider drizzling a little olive oil on top before baking to help achieve that bubbly, golden crust that’s so irresistible.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Making lasagna in advance can save you time, especially for gatherings. After assembling your lasagna, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze it before baking. Just be sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn; it can last up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to cook, bake it from frozen, adding an additional 20-30 minutes to the cooking time.

Leftovers, if you have any, can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place slices in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. This will help maintain the gooey cheese texture you love without drying out the dish.

Ingredients

Lasagna Ingredients

9 lasagna noodles
2 cups ricotta cheese
3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp olive oil

Prepare all ingredients before starting. This ensures a smooth cooking process!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Boil the Noodles

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a baking sheet.

Sauté the Spinach

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.

Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the grated parmesan. Mix until smooth, and then fold in the sautéed spinach.

Layer the Lasagna

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then add another layer of marinara and a layer of mozzarella. Repeat the layers once, finishing with noodles and leftover marinara on top.

Add Cheese and Bake

Top with remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Cool and Serve

Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pair this lasagna with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating a layer of sautéed mushrooms or zucchini into the lasagna. You can also substitute some of the marinara sauce for a homemade tomato sauce for a fresher taste.

Alternative Ingredients and Variations

If you're looking to put a twist on the classic spinach lasagna, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor complexity. These can be layered alongside the spinach for a delightful combination of tastes and textures. Additionally, swapping in whole wheat lasagna noodles can offer a heartier, more nutty flavor that complements the dish wonderfully.

For a healthier version, you could substitute part of the ricotta with cottage cheese or Greek yogurt. This not only reduces calories but also packs in more protein, giving you the same creamy texture with a minor shift in flavor. Just make sure to adjust seasoning to compensate for the different profiles.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your lasagna comes out watery, it’s often due to excess moisture from your vegetables or sauce. To prevent this, make sure to properly drain any cooked vegetables and use a thicker marinara sauce. Another method is to bake the lasagna uncovered for the final 10-15 minutes to allow steam to escape and the sauce to thicken.

On the other hand, if your lasagna appears dry or overcooked, check your baking times and temperatures. The cheese should be bubbling and slightly browned—overcooking can lead to a tough texture. Adding a bit more sauce between layers or on top can help keep everything moist and flavorful during the bake.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat noodles?

Absolutely! Whole wheat noodles will work well in this recipe and add extra fiber.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate, then bake when you're ready.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese or a tofu mixture can be great substitutes for ricotta, each giving a unique texture.

→ Is it okay to freeze leftover lasagna?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to three months. Just make sure it's in an airtight container.