Baked Lasagna Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Ideas

There’s something truly comforting about a warm, cheesy baked lasagna, and when it’s vegetarian, it’s a perfect dish for everyone at the table—meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. This baked lasagna recipe is packed with layers of vibrant vegetables, creamy ricotta, and savory tomato sauce, all nestled between tender sheets of pasta.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting guests, this dish never disappoints.

Not only is this vegetarian lasagna hearty and delicious, but it’s also packed with nutritious ingredients that make it a wholesome meal. The combination of fresh vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini adds a wonderful texture and flavor, while the cheeses melt beautifully to create that classic lasagna gooeyness.

Ready in about an hour, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding—a perfect addition to your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked vegetarian lasagna is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s loaded with fresh vegetables that bring both nutrition and flavor to every bite.

Unlike traditional meat lasagnas, this version feels lighter but still incredibly satisfying.

The layers are infused with a homemade tomato sauce that is both savory and slightly sweet, perfectly complementing the creamy ricotta and mozzarella. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time and freezes well, making it a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, the clear, step-by-step instructions will help you create a delicious meal with confidence. And if you love this recipe, you might also enjoy other comforting dishes like Grandma’s Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce or the crispy delights of a Glazed Twist Donut.

Ingredients

• 9-12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce or homemade tomato sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling noodles
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Aluminum foil
• Cheese grater (if shredding your own cheese)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. Cook the lasagna noodles. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay flat on a clean towel to prevent sticking.
3. Sauté the vegetables. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic, mushrooms, and zucchini, cooking until tender and slightly browned, about 6-8 minutes. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat.
4. Prepare the cheese mixture. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, half of the grated Parmesan, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.
5. Assemble the lasagna layers. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Place 3-4 noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, then layer half of the sautéed vegetables. Sprinkle with one-third of the mozzarella cheese and spoon over some marinara sauce. Repeat the layers: noodles, ricotta, vegetables, mozzarella, and sauce. Top with the final layer of noodles, remaining sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Cover and bake. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent sticking, spray the underside of the foil with cooking spray). Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
7. Uncover and finish baking. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Rest before serving. Remove from oven and let the lasagna rest for about 10 minutes. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.
9. Garnish and serve. Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves if desired, slice, and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Tip: If you want to save time, use no-boil lasagna noodles which don’t require pre-cooking. Just make sure to add a little extra sauce to ensure they cook properly in the oven.

Variation: Feel free to swap out the vegetables for your favorites—eggplant, bell peppers, or even roasted butternut squash work beautifully in this dish.

Make it vegan: Substitute ricotta with a tofu-based or cashew-based vegan cheese, and use vegan mozzarella. You can also make your own marinara sauce or use a store-bought one that’s free from animal products.

Add protein: For added plant-based protein, include cooked lentils or crumbled tempeh in the vegetable layer.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This baked vegetarian lasagna pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or a side of garlic bread for some extra indulgence. Roasted vegetables or a simple bruschetta make excellent accompaniments as well.

For a well-rounded meal, consider serving it alongside a crisp white wine or a sparkling water with a splash of lemon. Afterward, delight your guests with a sweet treat like the Goat Milk Ice Cream Recipe No Eggs or a cozy dessert such as German Stuffing Recipe if you want to continue the hearty comfort food theme.

Conclusion

Vegetarian baked lasagna is a timeless dish that offers layers of flavor and a comforting texture, perfect for any occasion. Its versatility makes it ideal for customizing with your favorite vegetables and cheeses, ensuring it suits your taste and dietary preferences.

This recipe is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals without sacrificing the classic lasagna experience. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a beautiful, satisfying lasagna ready to impress family and friends.

Be sure to try this recipe soon and explore other delightful dishes on our site, such as the Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe for a savory bread addition or the Half Runner Beans Recipe to complement your meal with a touch of freshness.

Happy cooking!

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