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 of fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Rustic Recipes

I love making this Sunday Baked Spinach Lasagna for my family. The vibrant layers of fresh spinach nestled between hearty pasta and rich tomato sauce always bring smiles at the dinner table. What makes this recipe special is the addition of ricotta mixed with herbs, which elevates the entire dish to new heights. While baking, the entire kitchen fills with the enticing aroma of melted cheese and simmering vegetables, creating an inviting atmosphere that transforms a simple meal into a cherished family tradition. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.

Created by

Kitty Lawrence

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:29:34.761Z

When I first made this lasagna, I was amazed by how well the spinach complemented the rich layers of cheese and sauce. Using fresh spinach instead of frozen not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely texture that makes every bite enjoyable. I recommend sautéing the spinach briefly to reduce excess moisture, which ensures the lasagna stays perfectly layered and doesn't become soggy during baking.

After several attempts, I found that mixing in a hint of nutmeg with the ricotta truly elevates the flavor profile. It’s a subtle enhancement that surprises everyone. The next time I made it, I also experimented with adding a dash of red pepper flakes for a touch of warmth, which received rave reviews. This lasagna quickly became a staple at our family gatherings!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Layers of creamy ricotta and fresh spinach create a delightful taste experience
The homemade tomato sauce complements the richness perfectly
Ideal for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day

      

Mastering the Layers

When assembling your lasagna, it's essential to create an even distribution of flavors and textures. Start by applying enough marinara sauce to coat the bottom of the baking dish, which prevents the noodles from sticking. Place the noodles side by side, ensuring there are no overlaps. This step will help the lasagna cook uniformly. Use a spatula to spread the ricotta mixture evenly, as this creamy layer balances the acidity of the tomato sauce beautifully.

Don’t rush the layering process; take your time to ensure that each component is evenly spaced. I like to use a combination of my hands and a spoon to create a neat, tidy stack. Position your layers such that when baked, the cheese melts into the sauce, melding the flavors. When it’s finished, you want to see beautiful, defined layers of pasta, cheese, and greens peeking out from the top.

Herbs and Seasonings Enhancing Flavor

The blend of Italian seasoning in the ricotta mixture brings aromatic notes that significantly enhance the dish. Each herb plays a role; for example, oregano imparts warmth, while basil adds a hint of sweet freshness. If you want to customize this aspect, feel free to swap in fresh herbs from your garden for a more vibrant taste. Chopped fresh basil or parsley can elevate your lasagna to another level, especially if added as a garnish before serving.

Another way to amp up flavor is by seasoning the layers generously with salt and pepper. This simplistic touch ensures every part of the lasagna is well-seasoned. Remember, the smoky notes of a good marinara can also marry seamlessly with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini if you want to increase the nutrient content without compromising the original recipe's essence.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

9 lasagna noodles
2 cups of fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure you have everything ready to go before assembling the lasagna!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious lasagna:

Cook the Noodles

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Spinach

In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the chopped spinach until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until smooth.

Assemble the Lasagna

In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place three noodles on top, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, half the spinach, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and then another layer of sauce. Repeat, finishing with noodles, sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan on top.

Bake

Cover with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, add fresh herbs like basil or a handful of sautéed mushrooms to the layers. You can also substitute the marinara sauce with a homemade Béchamel for a white lasagna version!

Make-Ahead Convenience

One of the best qualities of this Sunday Baked Spinach Lasagna is its ability to be prepared ahead of time. You can assemble the entire lasagna and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This technique not only saves time on a busy Sunday but also allows the flavors to meld further, making each bite even more satisfying. Just make sure to cover the dish tightly with foil to keep it fresh.

If you want to slice down on meal prep time during the week, consider cooking extra noodles and spinach on another day. Assemble the lasagna, but leave off the final topping of cheese until you are ready to bake. This helps keep the texture of the cheese intact, giving it a lovely, bubbly finish.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Once you’ve enjoyed your Sunday Baked Spinach Lasagna, it’s easy to store leftovers! Just cool the remaining portions to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and they can last up to three months in the freezer. Just ensure to label your packages for easy retrieval later on.

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the lasagna in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out and heat for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re reheating from frozen, it may take up to 45 minutes, so be patient. The key is to ensure the center is bubbling hot, which indicates the entire dish is evenly heated.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Just ensure you follow the cooking instructions on the gluten-free lasagna noodles package.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.

→ Can I freeze the lasagna?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked lasagna or leftovers. Cover tightly and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.

→ What can I serve with this lasagna?

A simple green salad and garlic bread make perfect accompaniments to this dish.