Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna

This creamy mushroom and spinach lasagna is a comforting and easy-to-make dish, combining the rich flavors of sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and a creamy cheese sauce. With the convenience of no-cook lasagna noodles and condensed cream of mushroom soup, you can whip up this delightful meal in no time for a delicious family dinner.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients:

  • No-cook lasagna noodles: 12
  • Olive oil: 2 tbsp
  • Onion: 1, finely chopped
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Mushrooms: 2 cups, sliced
  • Spinach: 2 cups fresh or frozen, chopped (if frozen, thaw and squeeze excess moisture)
  • Condensed cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 oz)
  • Milk: 1 cup
  • Ricotta cheese: 1 cup
  • Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups, shredded
  • Parmesan cheese: 1 cup, grated
  • Dried basil or Italian herbs: 1 tsp
  • Dried oregano: 1 tsp
  • Salt and pepper: To taste
  • Fresh parsley: Chopped (for garnish)

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 4 g

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Vegetables:
    • Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
    • Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, slice the mushrooms, and chop the spinach if using fresh.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
    • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
    • Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown.
    • Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted (if fresh) or heated through (if frozen).
    • Season with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the Sauce:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup with 1 cup of milk and mix well.
    • Add a pinch of nutmeg (optional) for an extra layer of flavor.
  4. Assemble the Lasagna:
    • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the soup mixture to coat the bottom.
    • Lay down a layer of no-cook lasagna noodles.
    • Spread a layer of the mushroom and spinach mixture over the noodles.
    • Add dollops of ricotta cheese over the vegetables.
    • Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
    • Repeat the layers: soup mixture, noodles, mushroom and spinach mixture, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, ending with a final layer of soup mixture and cheeses.
  5. Bake the Lasagna:
    • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
    • Bake for 25 minutes in the preheated oven.
    • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve:
    • Let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
    • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
  • Pair with garlic bread or a crusty baguette for added indulgence.

Cooking Tips:

  • Taste before adding salt: Condensed soups can be salty, so taste the mixture before adding extra salt.
  • Customize cheeses: Feel free to mix and match cheeses to your liking.
  • Add protein: For a heartier version, add cooked chicken or sausage to the mushroom and spinach mixture.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Spinach: Rich in vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium.
  • Mushrooms: Provide B vitamins and antioxidants.
  • Cheese: A source of protein and calcium.

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian: Yes
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles.

Storage:

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Lasagna can be frozen in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Convenient: Quick preparation with no-cook noodles and condensed soup.
  • Delicious: Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor.
  • Customizable: Easily adaptable with different vegetables and cheeses.

Conclusion:

This creamy mushroom and spinach lasagna is a simple, yet flavorful dish perfect for a cozy family dinner. With layers of vegetables, creamy sauce, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Serve it with a fresh salad or warm bread for a complete meal. Bon appétit! 😋

Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned?
    Yes, fresh mushrooms are preferred for better texture and flavor.
  2. Can I use other greens?
    Yes, you can substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard.
  3. How do I prevent my lasagna from drying out?
    Cover the lasagna with foil while baking and avoid overcooking it.
  4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
    Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with Gouda, cheddar, or even feta.
  5. What if I don’t have ricotta?
    You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or mascarpone.
  6. Can I make it vegan?
    Yes, use plant-based cheese, ricotta, and milk, and a vegan cream of mushroom soup.
  7. How do I reheat leftovers?
    Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) or microwave until warmed through.
  8. Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
    Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
  9. Can I add meat to the lasagna?
    Cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef can be added to the vegetable mixture.
  10. What’s the best way to freeze lasagna?
    Freeze in portions for easy reheating later. Wrap tightly in foil or use airtight containers.