White Spinach Lasagna: A Creamy Delight for Every Occasion
Introduction
When it comes to comforting, hearty meals that manage to be both indulgent and satisfyingly flavorful, White Spinach Lasagna stands out as an exceptional choice. This delightful dish is not only easy to assemble, making it perfect for busy weeknights, but it also showcases the rich flavors of creamy ricotta, nutritious spinach, and savory sun-dried tomatoes. Although this recipe is certainly not for those counting calories, its luscious layers and delectable taste ensure that every bite is a celebration of comfort food at its finest. The beauty of leftovers makes this dish even more appealing, as it can be savored again the next day. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Recipe Overview
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Category: One Dish Meal
- Keywords: Spinach, Cheese, Greens, Vegetable, Potluck, Oven, < 4 Hours
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 301.5 |
| Total Fat | 21 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 117.8 mg |
| Sodium | 275.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 8.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.5 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Protein | 20.9 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Ricotta cheese |
| 2 | Frozen chopped spinach |
| 2 | Eggs |
| 1/2 | Sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil |
| 3/4 | Dried oregano |
| 1/4 | Garlic powder |
| 1/4 | Black pepper |
| 1/8 | Ground nutmeg |
| 2 | Alfredo sauce |
| 12 | Mozzarella cheese |
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to a warm 375 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it reaches the right temperature for baking this delightful dish.
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Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, thawed and drained frozen chopped spinach, eggs, sun-dried tomatoes (with their oil for added flavor), dried oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, and ground nutmeg. Mix everything together thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended, creating a rich and creamy filling that will be the heart of your lasagna.
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Layer the Lasagna: Spread 3/4 cup of Alfredo sauce across the bottom of an ungreased 13 x 9-inch baking dish, which will prevent sticking and provide a flavorful base. Next, place three lasagna noodles in the dish, positioning them crosswise.
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Build the Layers: Take one-third of the ricotta mixture and spread it evenly over the noodles, ensuring every corner is covered with this luscious filling. Repeat this layering process twice more, alternating with more noodles and ricotta mixture, finishing with a final layer of noodles on top.
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Add the Sauce: Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the top layer of noodles, ensuring they are generously coated for a creamy finish.
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Cheese It Up: Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese generously over the Alfredo sauce, creating a golden, cheesy layer that will melt and bubble beautifully in the oven.
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Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the noodles to cook through.
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Uncover and Brown: After the initial baking time, carefully remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the cheese to become golden and bubbly.
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Broil for Extra Flavor (Optional): If you desire an extra crispy, browned cheese top, place the lasagna under the broiler for 2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. This will add a delightful crunch to the already creamy dish.
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Rest Before Serving: Once baked to perfection, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve.
Conclusion
The White Spinach Lasagna is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings comfort and joy to any gathering or family dinner. Its layers of flavor, creaminess, and the delightful combination of ingredients make it a standout dish that pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty bread. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, enjoying a cozy dinner at home, or simply indulging in some leftovers, this recipe promises to be a hit that will leave your taste buds craving more. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to enjoy a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food at its best!
