Creamy Veggie White Lasagna: Foolproof Comfort for Any Night

why make this recipe

Veggie White Lasagna is a delightful dish that combines layers of creamy béchamel, rich ricotta, and fresh vegetables. This recipe is perfect for those who want a hearty meal without meat, and it brings comfort food to a new level. Its creamy texture and delicious flavors will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies!

how to make Veggie White Lasagna

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 8 oz sliced cremini mushrooms
• 1 cup diced zucchini
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 15 oz whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 16 oz shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
• 9 lasagna noodles (cooked or no-boil, as per package directions)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté the onion and carrots for about 5 minutes. Add the mushrooms and zucchini, cooking until browned and the liquid has evaporated (about 8-10 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, then add the spinach and cook until just wilted. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
3. Make Béchamel Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring, until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat, stir in 1/2 cup Parmesan and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Mix Ricotta Filling: In a bowl, combine the ricotta, beaten egg, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Assemble Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange 3 lasagna noodles on top. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the vegetable mixture. Pour one-third of the béchamel sauce over the vegetables and sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella.
6. Repeat Layers: Add another layer of noodles, the remaining ricotta, the remaining vegetables, another third of the béchamel, and 1 cup of mozzarella.
7. Final Layer: Top with the last 3 noodles, the remaining béchamel sauce, the remaining mozzarella, and extra Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps it set.

how to serve Veggie White Lasagna

Serve Veggie White Lasagna warm, with a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan on top. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread on the side.

how to store Veggie White Lasagna

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the lasagna by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven until heated through.

tips to make Veggie White Lasagna

• Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables based on your preferences, such as bell peppers or eggplant.
• For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheeses.
• Make sure to allow the lasagna to rest after baking. This helps it slice better and keeps everything together.

variation

For a gluten-free version, you can use gluten-free lasagna noodles. You can also mix in some cooked lentils or beans for added protein.

FAQs

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes! No-boil noodles work great in this recipe. Just layer them according to package directions.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance. Just cover it well and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

What can I serve with Veggie White Lasagna?
It goes well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or even a light soup for a complete meal.

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