Are you craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s completely plant-based and bursting with flavor? This best vegan spinach lasagna recipe is just what you need!
Combining tender layers of fresh spinach, rich tomato sauce, and creamy vegan ricotta, this lasagna brings together the perfect balance of textures and tastes. It’s ideal for family dinners, meal prepping, or impressing your vegan and non-vegan guests alike.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan cook or just exploring plant-based options, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Using wholesome ingredients, you’ll create a dish that’s satisfying and nutritious without compromising on flavor.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or vegan cheese alternatives. Ready to make a lasagna that everyone will love?
Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan spinach lasagna is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s packed with nutrient-dense spinach, which adds vibrant color and a fresh, earthy taste.
The homemade vegan ricotta cheese substitute ensures a creamy, luscious texture that rivals traditional dairy cheese. Plus, it’s layered with a robust tomato sauce that’s perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic.
Unlike many vegan casseroles, this lasagna doesn’t feel like a compromise — it’s indulgent and deeply satisfying. It’s also gluten-free adaptable, easy to prep ahead of time, and freezes beautifully for quick future meals.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this recipe delivers on comfort, health, and flavor.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles (use gluten-free if preferred)
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 2 cups vegan ricotta cheese (recipe below)
- 4 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded vegan mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
Vegan Ricotta Cheese Ingredients:
- 14 oz firm tofu, drained and crumbled
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
Equipment
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Mixing bowls
- Food processor or blender (for vegan ricotta)
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Spatula and wooden spoon
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
- Prepare the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Make the vegan ricotta: In a food processor, combine the crumbled tofu, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh basil. Blend until the mixture has a creamy, ricotta-like texture. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Sauté the spinach filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Remove from heat and set aside.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Assemble the lasagna: In the baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer 3-4 noodles on top. Spread 1/3 of the vegan ricotta over the noodles, followed by 1/3 of the sautéed spinach mixture, and then 1/3 of the marinara sauce. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with a layer of noodles topped with marinara sauce.
- Add the topping: Sprinkle shredded vegan mozzarella cheese evenly over the top layer if desired.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and slightly browned.
- Rest and serve: Let the lasagna cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Tips & Variations
To prevent noodles from sticking, drizzle a little olive oil or use parchment paper between layers when laying them out.
Feel free to swap out fresh spinach for kale or Swiss chard to vary the greens. Adding mushrooms or zucchini to the sautéed vegetable layer can increase the heartiness and texture.
If you want a nutty ricotta alternative, try blending soaked cashews with lemon juice and nutritional yeast instead of tofu. For a spicy kick, mix in some crushed red pepper or smoked paprika into the sauce.
For a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free lasagna noodles or use thinly sliced eggplant or zucchini as noodle substitutes.
Want more vegan comfort food ideas? Check out our Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe for a warming side or Collard Green Casserole Recipes for an extra boost of greens!
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320 kcal |
Protein | 18 g |
Carbohydrates | 40 g |
Dietary Fiber | 8 g |
Fat | 8 g |
Saturated Fat | 1 g |
Sodium | 450 mg |
Calcium | 150 mg |
Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and vary depending on specific brands and ingredients used.
Serving Suggestions
This vegan spinach lasagna pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Roasted garlic bread or a warm baguette are great for soaking up extra sauce.
For a heartier meal, serve alongside your favorite vegan soup like our Clam Chowder San Francisco Recipe (veganized, of course!) or a simple bowl of steamed veggies.
For dessert, celebrate your plant-based feast with a sweet treat such as the creamy and decadent Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe. It’s the perfect way to round out a cozy dinner.
Conclusion
This best vegan spinach lasagna recipe proves that plant-based meals can be comforting, flavorful, and satisfying. With fresh spinach, creamy vegan ricotta, and a robust tomato sauce, this dish brings classic Italian flavors to your table in a healthy, animal-friendly way.
The easy-to-follow steps and accessible ingredients make it a fantastic choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this lasagna will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Don’t forget to experiment with different veggies or vegan cheeses to make it your own.
Happy cooking and buon appetito!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Spinach Lasagna
Description: A creamy and flavorful vegan spinach lasagna packed with plant-based goodness. Perfect for a hearty and healthy meal.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT65M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups vegan ricotta cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup firm tofu, crumbled
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted; set aside.
- In a bowl, mix vegan ricotta, tofu, nutritional yeast, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
- Layer 4 noodles, half the ricotta mixture, half the spinach, and marinara sauce.
- Repeat layers once more, ending with noodles and remaining marinara sauce on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
- Let lasagna rest 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 18 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 38 g
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