Spinach and Ricotta White Lasagna is a delightful twist on the classic red-sauce version. With creamy Alfredo sauce and a savory blend of cheeses, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion. Plus, it's a great way to sneak some greens into your meal!
Lasagna noodles are the foundation of this dish, providing structure and layers for the creamy fillings. Ricotta cheese brings a creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the spinach. Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients without overpowering the other flavors. Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the creaminess of the dish. A pinch of nutmeg elevates the flavors with a subtle warmth. Mozzarella cheese melts beautifully to create a gooey, golden topping. Alfredo sauce ties everything together with its rich, buttery texture. Aromatic onions and garlic add depth to the spinach filling. Olive oil is used for sautéing, adding a hint of fruitiness. Fresh basil provides a fragrant and fresh garnish. Finally, salt and pepper are essential for seasoning to taste.
Pair this lasagna with a crisp Caesar salad or a simple arugula and cherry tomato salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio complements the rich flavors beautifully, making for a well-rounded meal.
Preheat your oven to 375°F. While that's heating up, bring a pot of water to a rolling boil and cook your lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Once they're done, drain them and set them aside for layering later.
Next, grab a skillet and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the onions and garlic, letting them sauté until they're translucent and fragrant — this usually takes about 5 minutes. Stir in the spinach until it's wilted, then sprinkle in the nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. Take the skillet off the heat and let it sit for a moment.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese. This mixture will add a creamy, tangy layer to your lasagna that's absolutely to die for.
Now, let's start layering. Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish. This prevents the noodles from sticking and adds flavor from the start. Lay down 3 lasagna noodles, then spoon over half of your spinach mixture, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, and a third of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat these layers, finishing with a final layer of noodles. Top it all with the remaining Alfredo sauce and the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
Cover the dish with foil and pop it in your preheated oven. Let it bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Once it's done, let the lasagna cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil for a burst of fresh flavor.