Sausage and Spinach Lasagna
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
Indulge in the delightful layers of this comforting Sausage and Spinach Lasagna, which has become a beloved dish in my household. Though originally designed as a manicotti recipe, I’ve adapted it for those moments when I prefer the ease of assembling layers rather than stuffing individual shells. This savory lasagna is packed with flavorful Italian sausage, creamy cheeses, and vibrant spinach, making it a hearty and satisfying meal that your family will adore just as much as mine does.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
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Italian sausage | 1 pound |
Half-and-half | ½ cup |
Fresh spinach | 16 ounces |
Ricotta cheese | 32 ounces |
Parmesan cheese | ½ cup |
Eggs | 2 large |
Nutmeg | 1 ½ teaspoons |
Fennel | 1 ½ teaspoons |
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 544 |
Total Fat | 37.1 g |
Saturated Fat | 17.4 g |
Cholesterol | 152.5 mg |
Sodium | 1425.7 mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 20.5 g |
Dietary Fiber | 1.8 g |
Sugars | 10.9 g |
Protein | 32.2 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Lasagna Noodles: Begin by cooking the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente. If you prefer convenience, feel free to use oven-ready lasagna noodles, but I find that traditional boiled noodles provide a richer texture in the final dish.
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Cook the Sausage: Next, remove the Italian sausage from its casing, breaking it up into smaller pieces as you do so. In a large frying pan over medium heat, add the sausage and pour in the half-and-half. This addition not only helps to keep the sausage moist but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Cook the sausage, stirring occasionally, until it is no longer pink and fully cooked through. Once done, remove the pan from heat.
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Season the Mixture: To the cooked sausage, add the fennel and nutmeg, stirring well to combine all the flavors thoroughly. The aromatic spices will enhance the overall depth of the dish, giving it that comforting Italian flavor.
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Combine with Cheese and Spinach: In a mixing bowl, add the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, and eggs. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Then, incorporate the fresh spinach, mixing until evenly distributed throughout the cheese mixture. The vibrant green of the spinach not only adds color but also packs a nutritious punch.
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Assemble the Lasagna: Now comes the fun part—assembling the lasagna! Begin by spreading a thin layer of your favorite marinara sauce on the bottom of a lasagna pan. Next, layer in some of the cooked noodles, followed by a generous portion of the sausage and cheese mixture. Spread another layer of sauce over the filling to keep it moist and help with easy spreading. Repeat the layering process until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of noodles topped with sauce. For a delicious finishing touch, sprinkle additional parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning over the top layer.
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Bake: Cover the assembled lasagna with aluminum foil, ensuring it is tightly sealed to prevent excess moisture from escaping. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the lasagna for approximately 45 minutes. This step allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully while the cheese gets bubbly and golden.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the baking time is complete, carefully remove the foil and let the lasagna sit for about 10 minutes before slicing into squares for serving. This resting time helps the layers set, making it easier to serve. Enjoy your deliciously hearty Sausage and Spinach Lasagna with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that your family will request time and again.
This Sausage and Spinach Lasagna not only satisfies the taste buds but also serves as a wonderful centerpiece for any family gathering or cozy weeknight dinner. The delightful combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a favorite, one that is sure to bring joy to your dining table. Prepare to enjoy a slice of comfort that encapsulates the essence of home-cooked goodness.