Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Recipe

This Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Recipe is a delicious twist on the classic Italian dish. Layers of creamy cottage cheese, tender spinach, and chewy artichokes are nestled between lasagna noodles and a homemade tomato sauce. It's a hearty vegetarian main that's perfect for a cozy dinner with family or friends.

Photos of Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Recipe

Some of the ingredients in this recipe may not be common in every household. Artichokes, for example, might require a trip to the supermarket. They're usually found in the canned vegetable aisle, but you can also use fresh ones if you prefer. Another ingredient to be aware of is fontina cheese which is a creamy Italian cheese that melts beautifully and has a mild, nutty flavor. If you’re unable to locate fontina, you can substitute with another smooth-melting cheese like mozzarella.

Key Ingredients for Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Recipe

Tomatoes: These are the base for the homemade tomato sauce. Fresh tomatoes are ideal, but canned tomatoes will also suffice in a pinch.

Basil: Fresh basil leaves give a burst of flavor to the tomato sauce, and a sprinkle at the end adds a touch of color.

Olive oil: This is used to sauté the onions and garlic, as well as blend the tomato sauce.

Garlic: Garlic adds a depth of flavor to both the sauce and spinach artichoke mixture.

Red pepper flakes: These add a little heat to the tomato sauce, but can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.

Cottage cheese: This adds creaminess to the spinach artichoke mixture.

Red onion: This gives a bit of bite and texture to the spinach artichoke mixture.

Artichokes: These provide a tender, slightly sweet taste and pleasant texture to the spinach mixture.

Spinach: Spinach is a great source of iron and adds a healthy, green touch to the lasagna.

Lasagna noodles: These are the layers that hold all the delicious fillings together.

Fontina cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and makes the lasagna extra cheesy and delicious.

One reader, Catarina Simpson says:

This spinach artichoke lasagna recipe is a game-changer! The combination of creamy spinach and artichoke with the rich tomato sauce is simply divine. It's a crowd-pleaser and perfect for a cozy family dinner. I highly recommend trying it out!

Catarina Simpson

Key Techniques for Making Spinach Artichoke Lasagna

How to prepare tomato sauce: Blend the drained tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, garlic, salt, and red pepper flakes in a food processor until smooth.

How to blend cottage cheese: Blend half of the cottage cheese in a food processor until smooth.

How to cook spinach artichoke mixture: Sauté onions, garlic, artichokes, and spinach until the spinach is wilted and most of the moisture has evaporated.

How to assemble the lasagna: Layer the lasagna noodles, spinach mixture, tomato sauce, and shredded cheese in the baking pan, then bake covered for 18 minutes, uncover, and bake for an additional 12 minutes until the top is golden brown.

How to slice and serve: Let the lasagna cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving, then sprinkle with chopped basil.

How To Make Spinach Artichoke Lasagna

This spinach artichoke lasagna is a healthier version of the classic Italian dish. It’s bursting with flavors from the greens, tomatoes, and cheese!

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 50 minutes

Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For The Tomato Sauce:

28oztomatoesdiced
¼cupfresh basilchopped
2tbspolive oil
2garlic clovespressed or minced
½tspsalt
¼tspred pepper flakes

For The Spinach Artichoke Mixture:

2cupslow fat cottage cheese
2tbspolive oil
1cupchopped red onionabout 1 small red onion
¼tspsalt
4garlic clovespressed or minced
1cupartichokesdrained
12ozbaby spinachpreferably organic
freshly ground black pepperto taste

For The Spinach Artichoke Lasagna:

9lasagna noodlesno-boil
2cupsshredded fontina cheeseor low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella
fresh basilchopped, for garnish

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pour the tomatoes into a mesh sieve or fine colander and let them drain off excess juice for a minute. Transfer drained tomatoes to the bowl of a food processor.
Add the basil, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper flakes. Pulse the mixture for about 10 times, until the tomatoes have broken down to an easily spreadable consistency. Pour the mixture into a bowl for later.
Rinse out the food processor and return it to the machine. Pour half of the cottage cheese into the processor and blend it for 1 minute until smooth. Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl.
Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and ¼ tsp salt. Cook, stirring often, for about 4 to 5 minutes until the onion is tender and translucent.
Add the garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the artichoke to the skillet, then add a few large handfuls of spinach. Cook, stirring and tossing frequently until the spinach has wilted. Repeat with remaining spinach.
Continue cooking for about 12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach has dramatically reduced in volume and very little moisture remains in the bottom of the pan.
Transfer the spinach artichoke mixture to the bowl of the food processor and pulse for about 12 to 15 times until the contents are finely chopped. Transfer the mixture to the bowl of whipped cottage cheese.
Top with remaining cottage cheese and mix well. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Spread ½ cup tomato sauce evenly over the bottom of an 8×8 or 9×9-inch square baking pan.
Layer three lasagna noodles on top, overlapping their edges as necessary. Spread half of the spinach mixture evenly over the noodles.
Top with ½ cup tomato sauce, then sprinkle ½ cup shredded cheese on top.
Top with three more noodles, followed by the remaining spinach mixture. Sprinkle ½ cup shredded cheese on top.
Top with three more noodles, then spread the remaining tomato sauce over the top so the noodles are evenly covered. Sprinkle evenly with 1 cup shredded cheese.
Wrap the lasagna with a layer of parchment paper over the top. Bake, covered, for 18 minutes, then remove the cover, rotate the pan by 180 degrees, and continue cooking for about 12 more minutes, until the top is turning spotty brown.
Remove from oven and let the lasagna cool for 15 minutes before sprinkling with chopped basil and slicing.

Nutrition

Calories: 223.55kcal
Fat: 11.47g
Saturated Fat: 4.64g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.09g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.00g
Carbohydrates: 19.21g
Fiber: 3.26g
Sugar: 4.76g
Protein: 12.52g
Cholesterol: 25.40mg
Sodium: 450.47mg
Calcium: 195.88mg
Potassium: 506.41mg
Iron: 1.60mg
Vitamin A: 235.22µg
Vitamin C: 20.77mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting Spinach Artichoke Lasagna

When preparing the spinach and artichoke mixture, ensure that you cook it until most of the moisture has evaporated. This will prevent your lasagna from becoming soggy. Also, when layering the lasagna, make sure to spread the ingredients evenly. This will ensure that every bite is full of flavor and that the lasagna cooks evenly.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prepare the ingredients: Gather and prepare all the ingredients and tools needed before starting the recipe to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-made tomato sauce: To save time, consider using store-bought tomato sauce instead of making it from scratch.

Use no-boil lasagna noodles: Opt for no-boil lasagna noodles to skip the step of boiling them before assembling the lasagna.

Prep in advance: Prepare the spinach artichoke mixture and tomato sauce a day ahead to cut down on the cooking time when assembling the lasagna.

Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly and efficiently chop and blend ingredients for the spinach artichoke mixture, saving time and effort.

Opt for pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded cheese, eliminating the need to shred it manually before assembling the lasagna.

Substitute Ingredients For Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Recipe

tomatoes - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a convenient substitute for fresh tomatoes in the sauce, providing a similar flavor and texture.
fresh basil - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil can be used as a substitute for fresh basil, but use it in smaller quantities as it is more concentrated in flavor.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for olive oil, providing a similar richness and flavor to the dish.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, but use it in smaller quantities as it is more concentrated in flavor.
cottage cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese, providing a creamy texture and mild flavor.
olive oil - Substitute with butter: Butter can be used as a substitute for olive oil, adding a rich and creamy flavor to the dish.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onion can be used as a substitute for red onion, providing a similar flavor and texture to the dish.
artichokes - Substitute with zucchini: Sliced zucchini can be used as a substitute for artichokes, adding a similar texture and mild flavor to the lasagna.
baby spinach - Substitute with kale: Chopped kale can be used as a substitute for baby spinach, providing a hearty and nutritious addition to the lasagna.
lasagna noodles - Substitute with zucchini slices: Thinly sliced zucchini can be used as a substitute for lasagna noodles, creating a low-carb and gluten-free alternative.
fontina cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella cheese can be used as a substitute for fontina cheese, providing a mild and creamy flavor to the lasagna.

How to Beautifully Present Spinach Artichoke Lasagna

Elevate the plating: When presenting the spinach artichoke lasagna, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use a square mold to neatly stack the lasagna layers for a clean and professional presentation.
Garnish with fresh basil: Add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor by garnishing the lasagna with a few carefully placed fresh basil leaves. This simple touch adds a touch of elegance to the dish.
Incorporate negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the lasagna to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate with excessive elements, allowing the lasagna to be the focal point of the presentation.
Use a sauce drizzle: Elevate the visual appeal of the dish by incorporating a carefully executed sauce drizzle on the plate. Consider using a small squeeze bottle to create a delicate design with the tomato sauce.
Add microgreens for texture: Sprinkle a few delicate microgreens over the lasagna to introduce a textural element and enhance the overall presentation with a touch of sophistication.
Consider plate shape and color: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the lasagna and consider using a non-traditional shape to add an element of surprise and creativity to the presentation.
Emphasize symmetry: Aim for a balanced and symmetrical arrangement of the lasagna on the plate, creating a visually appealing presentation that showcases attention to detail.
Highlight with edible flowers: Introduce a touch of elegance by delicately placing a few edible flowers around the plate to elevate the overall aesthetic and add a hint of sophistication to the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe

Mesh sieve or fine colander: Used to drain off excess juice from the tomatoes.
Food processor: Used to blend the tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and garlic for the tomato sauce, and to blend the cottage cheese for the spinach artichoke mixture.
Large skillet: Used to cook the onion, garlic, artichokes, and spinach for the spinach artichoke mixture.
8x8 or 9x9-inch square baking pan: Used to assemble and bake the lasagna.
Parchment paper: Used to cover the lasagna while baking.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Spinach Artichoke Lasagna

Let the lasagna cool completely before storing or freezing. This will take about 1-2 hours at room temperature.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The lasagna will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the lasagna. Cut it into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label the container with the date and contents.
Frozen lasagna will maintain its best quality for about 2-3 months. After that, it will still be safe to eat but may start to lose flavor and texture.
To reheat refrigerated lasagna, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until heated through.
For frozen lasagna, you can either thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed above, or bake it directly from frozen. If baking from frozen, increase the baking time to about 1 hour, keeping it covered with foil for the first 30-40 minutes to prevent the top from browning too much.
Individual portions of frozen lasagna can be reheated in the microwave. Place a piece on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and microwave on 50% power for 1-2 minutes, then on full power for another 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

How To Reheat Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover lasagna in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the top layer of cheese from burning and drying out while the inside heats through. Bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If you prefer a crispier top layer, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking. This will allow the cheese to brown and develop a delightful texture that complements the creamy spinach and artichoke filling.
For a quicker reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place a single serving of lasagna on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until it's heated through. If the lasagna is still cold in the center, continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until it reaches the desired temperature.
If you have a large portion of leftover lasagna, you can reheat it in a skillet on the stovetop. Place a single layer of lasagna in a large skillet and add a splash of water or tomato sauce to help keep it moist. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat over medium-low heat for 5-10 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through and the cheese is melted.
For a crispy bottom layer, you can reheat the lasagna in a skillet without adding any liquid. Place a single layer of lasagna in a large skillet and heat over medium heat for 5-10 minutes, or until the bottom layer is crispy and the lasagna is heated through.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover lasagna. Cut the lasagna into single-serving portions and place them in the air fryer basket. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the lasagna is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Interesting Trivia About Spinach Artichoke Lasagna

Lasagna is a versatile dish that can be easily customized to include a variety of vegetables and cheeses, making it a great option for vegetarians and those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet.

Is Making Spinach Artichoke Lasagna at Home Cost-Effective?

This spinach artichoke lasagna recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, including spinach, artichokes, and cottage cheese, are relatively affordable and readily available. The use of basic pantry staples like olive oil and garlic adds flavor without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall Verdict: 9/10.

Is Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Healthy or Unhealthy?

The spinach artichoke lasagna recipe is a healthier take on the classic comfort food. It incorporates nutrient-dense ingredients like spinach, artichokes, and tomatoes, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The recipe also opts for low-fat cottage cheese instead of the traditional high-fat ricotta, reducing the overall saturated fat content. However, there are still some areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier.

Reduce the amount of cheese used, particularly the fontina, which is relatively high in fat and sodium
Use whole-grain lasagna noodles to increase the fiber content and provide more complex carbohydrates
Include additional vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to boost the nutrient profile and add more variety to the dish
Opt for a low-sodium tomato sauce or make your own using fresh tomatoes to reduce the overall sodium content
Use a lean protein source, such as ground turkey or tofu, to increase the protein content and make the dish more satiating

By incorporating these changes, the spinach artichoke lasagna can become an even healthier and more well-rounded meal that still satisfies your comfort food cravings. Experiment with different vegetables and herbs to create your own unique twist on this classic dish, and don't be afraid to adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences and nutritional needs.

Editor's Opinion on the Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Recipe

The spinach artichoke lasagna recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The tomato sauce provides a vibrant and tangy base, complementing the creamy spinach and artichoke mixture. The use of fontina cheese adds a rich and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall depth of the dish. The incorporation of fresh basil adds a refreshing herbal note, balancing the richness of the other ingredients. The recipe's layering technique ensures a harmonious distribution of flavors in every bite. Overall, this lasagna is a sophisticated and satisfying dish that is sure to impress any palate.

Enhance Your Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with a savory garlic parmesan crust.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with honey and a hint of cinnamon for the perfect balance of flavors.

Balsamic Grilled Vegetables: A colorful medley of grilled vegetables marinated in a tangy balsamic vinaigrette for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Dish

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy chicken alfredo recipe is a classic Italian dish that combines tender chicken, rich alfredo sauce, and al dente pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Mango salsa chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that features juicy chicken breasts topped with a zesty mango salsa, perfect for a fresh and summery dinner option.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: Roasted vegetable quinoa salad is a nutritious and colorful dish that combines hearty quinoa with a variety of roasted vegetables, creating a delicious and filling salad perfect for lunch or dinner.

Perfect Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for This Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a delicious blend of cheeses, herbs, and breadcrumbs. They're the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: These colorful skewers are a fresh and vibrant appetizer option, featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth with every spoonful.

Berry Parfait: Layered with fresh berries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Each spoonful offers a refreshing burst of fruity goodness.

Why trust this Spinach Artichoke Lasagna Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, combining the richness of fontina cheese with the earthy goodness of spinach and the subtle tang of artichokes. The homemade tomato sauce is crafted with care, using fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, ensuring a burst of vibrant flavors in every bite. With a meticulous process that involves blending, sautéing, and layering, this recipe promises a harmonious marriage of ingredients that will elevate your dining experience. Trust in the expertise and attention to detail that goes into creating this delectable spinach artichoke lasagna, and savor the satisfaction it brings to your table.

Want to share your experience making this Spinach Artichoke Lasagna or have any tips to enhance the recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum and let's talk about this delicious dish!

FAQ:

Can I use ricotta cheese instead of cottage cheese?

Yes, you can substitute ricotta cheese for the cottage cheese in this recipe. The texture and flavor will be slightly different, but it will still work well as a creamy layer in the lasagna.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach before using it in the recipe. You may need to adjust the quantity based on the package instructions.

Can I prepare the lasagna ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out. You may need to adjust the baking time if the lasagna is cold when it goes into the oven.

Can I freeze the spinach artichoke lasagna?

Yes, you can freeze the spinach artichoke lasagna. Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the lasagna?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Mozzarella, Parmesan, or even a blend of Italian cheeses can be used to add different flavors to the lasagna. Just make sure to adjust the quantities based on your personal preference.