Easy Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Easy Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna: A Cheesy Vegetarian Classic Everyone Will Love

There is something incredibly satisfying about pulling a bubbling lasagna from the oven. This Easy Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna combines layers of tender pasta, creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, homemade marinara sauce, and golden mozzarella into one comforting vegetarian bake. The filling is light yet rich, with a touch of lemon zest and nutmeg bringing freshness and warmth to every bite. If you enjoy comforting Italian-inspired dishes, you might also love my Stuffed Caccavelle Pasta Bake with Ricotta and Beef or my Stuffed Pasta Shells with Mushrooms, Ricotta and Spinach. Both recipes share the same cosy, oven-baked appeal while offering their own unique flavours.

Scroll down or tap "Jump to Recipe" to start cooking!

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavours

One of the best things about this spinach and ricotta lasagna is that it relies on everyday ingredients that work beautifully together. Each component contributes something special to the finished dish:

• Ricotta cheese – Creates a creamy, velvety filling that keeps the lasagna light while adding richness.
• Spinach – Adds freshness, colour, and a subtle earthy flavour that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
• Lemon zest – A simple ingredient that brightens the filling and prevents it from feeling too heavy.
• Nutmeg – A classic addition that complements both spinach and ricotta beautifully.
• Marinara sauce – Homemade tomato sauce adds depth, sweetness, and acidity to balance the creamy layers.
• Lasagna sheets – Form the structure of the dish while soaking up the flavours of the filling and sauce.
• Mozzarella – Melts into a golden, bubbling topping that makes every serving irresistible.

If you enjoy recipes that combine cheese and vegetables, don't miss my 20-Minute Spinach Ricotta Pasta or Butternut Squash Ricotta Pasta. Both showcase how a handful of simple ingredients can create incredibly satisfying meals.

How to Make Easy Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Make the Marinara Sauce

Start by heating the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.Stir in the chopped tomatoes and water, then season with salt, black pepper, and sugar. Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer gently for about 15 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly. Stir in the basil leaves and remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the sauce to cool for a few minutes before blending until smooth using an immersion blender. Alternatively, transfer it to a food processor and blend until silky smooth. Set aside while you prepare the remaining components.

Prepare the Spinach and Ricotta Filling

Wilt the spinach, then drain it thoroughly and squeeze out as much excess moisture as possible. Chop it finely and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the ricotta, grated mozzarella, lemon zest, egg, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until the filling is evenly combined and creamy. The lemon zest adds freshness while the nutmeg enhances the flavour of both the spinach and ricotta, creating a filling that is simple yet incredibly delicious.

Cook the Lasagna Sheets

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna sheets according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them carefully and set aside. Keep in mind that some brands of lasagna sheets are oven-ready and do not require pre-cooking. Always check the package instructions before starting, as cooking requirements can vary between brands.

Assemble and Bake the Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the bottom of a 25 x 18 cm (10 x 7 inch) baking dish. Arrange 2 lasagna sheets over the sauce, then spread half of the spinach and ricotta filling evenly on top. Spoon over a little marinara sauce.

Add another layer of 2 lasagna sheets, followed by the remaining spinach and ricotta filling. Spoon over another layer of marinara sauce. Finish with the final 2 lasagna sheets and spread the remaining marinara sauce evenly across the top. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminium foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the dish from the oven, carefully discard the foil, and sprinkle the grated mozzarella evenly over the surface.

Turn on the convection setting and return the lasagna to the oven for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden, melted, and bubbling. Allow the lasagna to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set properly and makes serving much easier.

Why We Love This Easy Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and fresh flavours. The spinach keeps it light, the ricotta provides creaminess, and the marinara sauce ties everything together with its rich tomato flavour. Unlike heavier meat-based lasagnas, this vegetarian version feels satisfying without being overly rich. It is the kind of meal that works equally well for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a relaxed weekend gathering with family and friends. Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can prepare it ahead of time, customise the cheeses, or even add extra vegetables if desired. It reheats beautifully and often tastes even better the next day. If vegetarian comfort food is your thing, you may also enjoy Beetroot Cottage Cheese Pasta or Courgette and Cottage Cheese Pasta. Both deliver plenty of flavour while keeping things simple and approachable.

Perfect for Family Dinners and Meal Prep

This Easy Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna is one of those recipes that fits effortlessly into almost any occasion. It is elegant enough to serve to guests yet simple enough for a casual family dinner. The leftovers store exceptionally well and can be reheated for lunch or dinner throughout the week. You can even freeze individual portions, making it a practical choice for busy days when you need something comforting ready to go. Serve it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. The combination of creamy filling, rich tomato sauce, and golden cheese is always a crowd-pleaser. For more family-friendly pasta recipes, have a look at Roasted Tomato and Cottage Cheese Fusilli or Stuffed Caccavelle Pasta Bake with Beef Ragù and Béchamel. Both are packed with flavour and perfect for sharing around the table.

Instagram Tutorial & More

Want to see exactly how the layers come together? Watch our quick video tutorial on Instagram and see just how easy this lasagna is to make.

You may also like:

• High-Protein Cottage Cheese Pesto Pasta
• One-Pan Tomato Meatball Pasta
• One-Pot Meatball Pasta
• Avocado and Burrata Pasta
• Easy Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Orzo
• Roasted Pepper and Ricotta Pasta
• Baked Cannelloni with Beef and Mozzarella

Happy cooking,
Izabella