Description
A creamy, meatless lasagna featuring butter beans, layered with rich tomato sauce, zucchini, spinach, and cheesy goodness. Perfect for vegetarians or anyone craving a healthy comfort food twist!
Ingredients
- 12 Lasagna noodles (Regular or no-boil; cook regular noodles al dente per package instructions.)
- 2 can15 oz each Butter beans (Drained and rinsed; creamy texture, high in protein.)
- 1 can 28 oz Chopped tomatoes ( High-quality for best flavor.)
- 2 medium Zucchini (Sliced thin; adds freshness.)
- 10 oz Frozen spinach (Thawed and drained; or use fresh chopped and wilted.)
- 2 cups Ricotta cheese (Full-fat for creaminess; part-skim works too.)
- 2 Eggs (Binds the ricotta mixture; omit for vegan version.)
- 1/4 cup Parsley (Fresh chopped; 1 tbsp dried as a substitute.)
- 2 cups Mozzarella cheese (Grated; freshly grated melts best.)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (Grated; adds a nutty finish—optional.)
- 1 medium Onion (Finely chopped for the sauce base.)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Minced; fresh for maximum flavor.)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil (Extra virgin preferred for sautéing.)
- Salt To taste (Adjust based on preference or sodium needs.)
- Black pepper To taste (Freshly ground for best taste.)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook the Bean Mixture: Stir in 2 cans (15 oz each) drained butter beans, mashing about half with a spoon to thicken. Add 1 can (28 oz) chopped tomatoes and 10 oz thawed, drained spinach. Season with salt and pepper, then simmer for 15-20 minutes. Add 2 thinly sliced zucchinis for the last 5 minutes.
- Mix the Ricotta Layer: In a bowl, combine 2 cups ricotta cheese, 2 eggs, and 1/4 cup chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper, stirring until smooth.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of sauce. Lay down 4 lasagna noodles, followed by 1/3 of the remaining sauce, then 1/3 of the ricotta mixture. Repeat this layering twice more. Top with 2 cups grated mozzarella and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions.
Freezing: Assemble and freeze unbaked for up to 3 months, or freeze baked leftovers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Substitutions: Use gluten-free noodles for a gluten-free version, or swap ricotta and mozzarella for vegan alternatives to make it dairy-free.
Serving Size: One 9×13-inch dish yields 8 generous portions—perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Vegetarian
- Cuisine: Italian