Classic Lasagna Recipe with Spinach, Ricotta, and Meat Layers – Perfect for Family Dinners

July 8, 2024

When It Comes to Lasagna, I Have a Bit of a Reputation for Making a Good One

We all seem to develop a few dishes that become our signature, the ones our family and friends beg us to make. For me, it’s lasagna. I guess it’s because I love pasta dishes so much, and lasagna is just the perfect combination of everything comforting—pasta, sauce, cheese, and all those wonderful layers. The great thing about making lasagna is that if you’re going to make one, you might as well make two! With a hungry family to feed, it makes perfect sense to double the recipe, enjoy one tonight, and freeze the other for a busy day down the road. Plus, who doesn’t love the convenience of pulling a homemade lasagna out of the freezer, ready to bake and enjoy without any extra effort? Lasagna is a great dish for gatherings, potlucks, and those days when I want to treat my family to something special.

Did You Know?

Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that dates back to the Middle Ages. The word "lasagna" refers to the type of wide, flat pasta used in the dish, which is layered with sauce, cheese, and meat or vegetables.

Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients:

Basic Ingredients:

12 lasagna noodles
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil garnish (optional)

Meat Sauce:

1 pound ground turkey or ground beef
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
1 cup sliced zucchini (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil

Spinach & Ricotta Layer:

2 cups fresh spinach, washed and chopped
2 cups ricotta cheese
1 egg, beaten
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat Sauce:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
Personal Tip: Sautéing the onions first helps to build a deeper flavor base for the sauce.

Brown the Meat:
Add the ground turkey or beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Personal Tip: For leaner lasagna, drain any excess fat after browning the meat.

Simmer the Sauce:
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the mushrooms and zucchini if using. Simmer the sauce on low heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Personal Tip: Letting the sauce simmer allows the flavors to meld and intensify.

Prepare the Spinach & Ricotta Layer:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, beaten egg, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
Personal Tip: Using fresh spinach adds a vibrant color and flavor to the dish.

Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Personal Tip: Lay the noodles flat on a lightly oiled baking sheet to prevent sticking.

Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the spinach and ricotta mixture over the noodles. Add another layer of meat sauce over the ricotta mixture. Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Repeat layers: noodles, remaining spinach and ricotta mixture, meat sauce, mozzarella cheese, and another layer of noodles. Top with the remaining meat sauce and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Personal Tip: Spread each layer evenly to ensure a balanced flavor in every bite.

Bake the Lasagna:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Personal Tip: Letting the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing helps it set and makes for cleaner slices.

Serve:
Let the lasagna cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Personal Tip: Serve with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 400, Protein: 25g, Carbohydrates: 32g, Sugars: 7g, Total Fat: 20g, Saturated Fat: 10g, Sodium: 800mg, Fiber: 3g

Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

Using Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach:
Both fresh and frozen spinach work well for this recipe. Fresh spinach offers a vibrant flavor, while frozen spinach is convenient and can be used year-round. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before mixing with the ricotta.
Meat Options:
Ground turkey provides a leaner option compared to ground beef. Both work well in this recipe, so choose based on your preference.
Cheese Choices:
For the best flavor, use a combination of mozzarella for its meltability and Parmesan for its sharpness. You can also try adding some provolone or Asiago for additional depth.
Vegetable Additions:
Adding mushrooms and zucchini not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional content. Sauté them briefly before adding to the sauce for a better texture.
Layering Tips:
Ensure even layers by spreading each component uniformly. This helps the lasagna cook evenly and makes for a more attractive presentation.
Make-Ahead Tips:
You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This can help the flavors meld together even more.
Freezing Lasagna:
Lasagna freezes well. Assemble the lasagna, but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the lasagna with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the dish.
Health Benefits:
Spinach is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron and calcium, making the spinach and ricotta layer a nutritious choice. Using lean ground turkey can also reduce the fat content of the dish.
Cost-Saving Tips:
Buy cheese and meat in bulk when on sale and freeze portions for later use. This reduces waste and saves money, ensuring you always have ingredients on hand for this delicious dish.

When It Comes to the Sauce, You Can Choose a Flavor Your Family Loves

When it comes to lasagna, the sauce is one of the most important elements that can make or break the dish. Different brands offer varying flavors, and finding one that your family loves can take your lasagna to the next level. My personal favorite is Hunt’s Original, which has a rich, deep flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients in this lasagna. However, it’s worth exploring other brands to find what best suits your taste. Some sauces are sweeter, while others have a more robust, savory flavor. Whether you prefer a homemade sauce or a trusted store-bought brand, the key is to choose one that complements the dish and pleases your palate. Experiment with different sauces, and don’t be afraid to mix and match until you find the perfect one for your family’s lasagna nights.

Back to blog