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Looking for an easy comfort food that brings the family together? This Hearty Garden-Fresh Lasagna Bake is just the thing. Tender pasta sheets nestle the perfect balance of rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and savory cheeses. Layer in sautéed spinach and herbs for a completely satisfying dish that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24-ounce) jar tomato sauce
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Begin by prepping your noodles. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, and cook the lasagna sheets just shy of al dente—about one minute less than the box advises. Drain them, then lay the noodles flat on a clean surface or baking sheet to prevent sticking.
Meanwhile, warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion until translucent, about five minutes, then stir in the garlic for a quick minute. Add your jar of tomato sauce, dried basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper, and simmer for five minutes to marry the flavors. Stir in the chopped spinach and remove from the heat.
Next, in a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Now you’re ready to layer. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a ladleful of the tomato sauce along the bottom. Arrange a layer of noodles over the sauce, then spoon on some ricotta mixture, followed by another swirl of sauce. Repeat this layering until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a generous layer of sauce on top. Scatter the remaining mozzarella and the Parmesan cheese over everything.
Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let the lasagna rest for ten minutes before slicing, allowing the layers to settle into their creamy dream state.
This recipe is fantastic for easy weeknight dinners or a special gathering with friends. It’s vegetarian-friendly by design, though you can add cooked ground beef or turkey to the sauce if you’re craving an extra protein boost. For a lighter twist, use low-fat cheeses or pack in extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. Every bite brings the comfort of home-cooking with minimal effort. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it deserves a regular rotation in your meal plans.
