BBC Food Vegetarian Lasagne Recipe: Easy & Delicious Guide

There’s something truly comforting about a bubbling, golden-topped lasagne straight out of the oven. If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing vegetarian main dish that even the meat-lovers in your life will adore, this BBC Food Vegetarian Lasagne recipe should be at the top of your list.

Layered with savory vegetables, rich tomato sauce, creamy béchamel, and sheets of tender pasta, this lasagne delivers on all the flavors and textures you’d expect from a classic Italian bake—minus the meat.

It’s a perfect centerpiece for a family dinner, a cozy weekend gathering, or even for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully. Whether you’re a committed vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, you’ll find this lasagne deeply satisfying, nourishing, and oh-so-comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Flavorful: Thanks to a medley of sautéed vegetables and herbs, this lasagne is anything but bland.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love its classic Italian flavors and cheesy, creamy layers.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and simply bake when ready to serve—perfect for busy weeknights or special events.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the filling with your favorite seasonal vegetables or add a spicy kick with extra chili flakes.
• Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and protein, this dish makes plant-based eating delicious and satisfying.
• Great for Leftovers: Lasagne tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for lunchboxes or reheated dinners.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large frying pan or skillet
• Large saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Chopping board & sharp knife
• Measuring jug & spoons
• Casserole or lasagne dish (about 23cm x 30cm / 9in x 12in)
• Whisk
• Grater
• Oven gloves
• Serving spatula

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetable Filling:
   1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat.
   2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
   3. Stir in the garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.
   4. Add the red pepper, courgette, and mushrooms. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and brown slightly.
   5. Stir in the tomato purée, oregano, basil, and optional chili flakes, and cook for 1 minute.
   6. Pour in the chopped tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and fragrant.
   7. Add the spinach and cook until wilted (or until water evaporates if using frozen spinach). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Make the Béchamel Sauce:
   1. In a large saucepan, melt 50g butter over medium heat. Stir in 50g flour to form a paste (roux), and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
   2. Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth (about 5-7 minutes).
   3. Remove from the heat. Stir in half of the grated cheddar and parmesan until melted. Season with salt and pepper.

   For a vegan version, use your favorite plant-based milk and this Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes.

3. Assemble the Lasagne:
   1. Spoon a thin layer of vegetable filling over the base of your lasagne dish.
   2. Top with a layer of lasagne sheets (break them to fit if necessary).
   3. Spread over a layer of béchamel sauce, then sprinkle a little of the remaining cheese.
   4. Repeat the layers: vegetables, pasta, béchamel, and cheese. Continue until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of béchamel and a generous topping of cheese.
4. Bake:
   1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan) / 400°F / Gas 6.
   2. Cover the lasagne loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
   3. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
   4. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped fresh basil.

Tips & Variations

• Add Protein: Stir in a can of drained lentils or chickpeas to the vegetable filling for extra protein and texture.
• Go Vegan: Use plant milk, vegan cheese, and egg-free pasta sheets. For a full vegan guide, check out Vegetable Lasagna Stouffer’s Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.
• Switch Up the Veggies: Try aubergine, sweetcorn, kale, or even butternut squash for a seasonal twist.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagne sheets and swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend in the béchamel.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for an extra flavor boost.
• Batch Cook: Double the recipe and freeze one lasagne (unbaked) for a future meal.
• Love veggie-forward dishes? Explore our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals and Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition values are approximate and will vary based on ingredient brands and substitutions.

Serving Suggestions

• Fresh Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette or lemon juice for a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is a classic side and perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try a side of honey-glazed carrots, roasted broccoli, or Mediterranean-style roasted vegetables.
• Soup Starter: Begin your meal with a simple tomato or minestrone soup, or try our Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating.
• Light Dessert: Finish with a slice of Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet ending.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based dishes to your menu, this BBC Food Vegetarian Lasagne recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s proof that meat-free meals can be every bit as hearty, comforting, and flavorful as their traditional counterparts.

With layers of tender pasta, rich tomato-vegetable sauce, and creamy béchamel, it’s a true celebration of wholesome ingredients and classic Italian flavors.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with the vegetables you have on hand, or to customize the seasonings to suit your taste. The best part?

Leftovers are just as delicious, making your efforts stretch even further. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of creating a luscious lasagne that’s sure to win over even the most dedicated carnivores.

Buon appetito!

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