White Pesto Spinach Lasagna

White Pesto Spinach Lasagna is an elegant, creamy twist on the traditional lasagna that combines the vibrant flavors of white sauce, spinach, and basil pesto for a decadent yet surprisingly light dish. This vegetarian recipe layers tender lasagna noodles with a rich white béchamel sauce infused with garlic and nutmeg, generous dollops of fresh basil pesto, sautéed spinach, and a medley of creamy cheeses like ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an upscale gathering, White Pesto Spinach Lasagna delivers the comforting, hearty satisfaction of a classic lasagna but with a refreshing herbaceous twist. Each layer bursts with creamy, cheesy goodness complemented by the earthy spinach and aromatic pesto. It’s a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also makes a stunning presentation at the table, making it ideal for both weeknight meals and special occasions.

Whether you’re a lasagna lover looking for a unique variation or a vegetarian searching for a crowd-pleasing dish, this White Pesto Spinach Lasagna recipe will have everyone going back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

White Pesto Spinach Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet touch. The combination of the creamy white béchamel sauce and the bright, zesty basil pesto creates a harmony of flavors that’s indulgent without being heavy. The spinach adds a healthy dose of greens, while the cheese layers make it rich and satisfying.

Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it’s also versatile. You can customize it to suit your preferences by adding mushrooms, artichokes, or even switching out the ricotta for cottage cheese. It’s also a great way to sneak in more vegetables while still delivering the cheesy, comforting flavors that everyone loves.

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, as it stores and reheats beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy families. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this lasagna will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 30 minutes
• Cook time: 50 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Serving size: 1 slice of lasagna (approximately 1/8 of the dish)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g

Ingredients

For the White Sauce (Béchamel):

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 1/2 cups whole milk (or 2% for a lighter version)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Lasagna Layers:

• 12 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package instructions or oven-ready noodles)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups fresh spinach (or 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
• 1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese for a lighter option)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup shredded provolone cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup sautéed mushrooms
• 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for a touch of heat)

Garnish:

• Fresh basil leaves
• Additional Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the White Sauce

1. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste.
2. Add the Milk: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue whisking and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to a smooth, creamy consistency.
3. Season the Sauce: Stir in the garlic powder, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the béchamel sauce from the heat and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Spinach

1. Sauté the Spinach: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until wilted. If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s thawed and fully drained before adding it to the skillet.
2. Season the Spinach: Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly before layering.

Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

1. Boil the Noodles: If using traditional lasagna noodles, cook them in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and lay them flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking. If using oven-ready noodles, skip this step.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread the Base Layer: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Spread a thin layer of the béchamel sauce on the bottom of the dish.
3. Layer the Ingredients:
   • Lay down a single layer of lasagna noodles.
   • Spread a layer of ricotta cheese evenly over the noodles.
   • Add a layer of sautéed spinach.
   • Drizzle 1–2 tablespoons of pesto over the spinach.
   • Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the pesto.
   • Pour a thin layer of béchamel sauce over the cheese.
4. Repeat: Continue layering in the same order until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of béchamel sauce topped with mozzarella, Parmesan, and optional provolone cheese.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
2. Uncover and Broil: Remove the foil and broil for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

1. Let it Rest: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
2. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

White Sauce (Béchamel)

The white sauce is the backbone of this lasagna, providing a creamy, luxurious texture that binds the layers together. The addition of garlic powder and nutmeg enhances its flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

Basil Pesto

Pesto adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce and cheese. Use homemade pesto for the best flavor, or choose a high-quality store-bought version.

Spinach

Spinach not only adds vibrant color but also boosts the nutritional value of the lasagna. Fresh spinach is ideal for a tender texture, but frozen spinach is a convenient and budget-friendly alternative.

Cheeses

The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and optional provolone creates a cheesy, melty masterpiece. Ricotta adds creaminess, mozzarella provides stretchiness, Parmesan adds a nutty depth, and provolone offers a subtle sharpness.

Technique Tips

1. Drain the Spinach: If using frozen spinach, ensure it’s thoroughly drained to prevent excess moisture from making the lasagna watery.
2. Whisk the Sauce Continuously: To avoid lumps in the béchamel, whisk constantly when adding the milk to the roux.
3. Cook Noodles Al Dente: If using traditional lasagna noodles, cook them slightly underdone since they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
4. Let It Rest: Allowing the lasagna to rest after baking is crucial for achieving clean, even slices.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Individual Portions: Assemble the lasagna in single-serving ramekins for an elegant, personalized touch.
• Roll-Ups: Instead of layering, spread the filling on individual lasagna noodles, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in a baking dish. Top with béchamel and cheese before baking.
• No-Bake Lasagna Skillet: Skip the layering and cook the ingredients in a large skillet, tossing everything together for a deconstructed lasagna.

Additional Tips for Success

• Make It Ahead: Assemble the lasagna up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Double the Pesto: For pesto lovers, double the amount and add a bit more between the layers for extra flavor.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley enhance the flavor and presentation of the dish.

Recipe Variations

• Mushroom Pesto Lasagna: Add a layer of sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Artichoke Spinach Lasagna: Incorporate artichoke hearts for a tangy twist.
• Gluten-Free Lasagna: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and gluten-free flour for the béchamel.
• Vegan Lasagna: Substitute the béchamel with a cashew cream sauce and use plant-based cheeses.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Freezing: Lasagna freezes beautifully! Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 20–30 minutes to the baking time.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use Whole Wheat Noodles: Swap regular lasagna noodles for whole wheat for added fiber.
• Reduce the Cheese: Use less cheese or substitute with low-fat versions.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate layers of zucchini, eggplant, or roasted bell peppers for additional nutrients.
• Make It Lighter: Use 2% milk in the béchamel and replace ricotta with low-fat cottage cheese.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Dinner Parties: Serve the lasagna alongside a crisp Caesar salad, garlic bread, and a glass of Sauvignon Blanc.
• Potlucks: Transport the lasagna in its baking dish and let it shine as the centerpiece of the meal.
• Holiday Dinners: Pair it with roasted vegetables and a hearty soup for a festive vegetarian main course.

Special Equipment

• 9×13-Inch Baking Dish: Essential for assembling the lasagna.
• Whisk: For creating a smooth béchamel sauce.
• Large Skillet: Perfect for sautéing spinach and any additional vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce instead of béchamel? Yes, jarred Alfredo sauce works in a pinch, but homemade béchamel offers a fresher, creamier flavor.
2. Can I make this gluten-free? Absolutely! Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and gluten-free flour for the white sauce.
3. How do I prevent the lasagna from being watery? Ensure the spinach is fully drained, and don’t overdo the pesto or ricotta layers.
4. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, the lasagna freezes well in individual portions or as a whole dish.
5. What’s the best cheese substitute for ricotta? Cottage cheese is an excellent, lighter alternative to ricotta.
6. Can I add meat? Sure! Cooked ground chicken, turkey, or Italian sausage can be added to the spinach or béchamel layers.
7. How do I reheat lasagna? Cover it with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual slices.
8. What pairs well with this dish? Garlic bread, mixed green salads, or roasted vegetables make perfect accompaniments.

Conclusion

White Pesto Spinach Lasagna is a sophisticated, comforting dish that offers the best of both worlds: indulgent creaminess and vibrant, herbaceous flavors. Perfectly balanced with layers of béchamel, pesto, spinach, and cheese, this lasagna is sure to impress at any dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian main course, a make-ahead meal, or a new way to enjoy lasagna, this recipe is a must-try. One bite, and you’ll understand why this dish has earned a place in both weeknight dinner rotations and special occasion menus alike. Serve it up and prepare to savor the taste of gourmet comfort food!

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