Snack On Meat

You are here: Home / All RECIPES / Loaded Veggie White Lasagna

Loaded Veggie White Lasagna

Lasagna is a classic comfort food loved around the world, and the best part? It’s endlessly adaptable. While traditional recipes often include meat, Loaded Veggie White Lasagna is packed with fresh vegetables, creamy ricotta, and a luscious white sauce, creating a dish that’s both delicious and nourishing.

Whether you’re a vegetarian, looking to eat more plants, or just craving a hearty meal, this lasagna is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthy & Colorful: Layers of spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers provide a vibrant mix of nutrients and antioxidants.
  • Creamy & Comforting: A rich, homemade white sauce adds a smooth, indulgent texture without overpowering the veggies.
  • Flexible: Works for vegetarian, vegan (with substitutions), or gluten-free diets.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble in advance and bake when ready for a stress-free dinner.

Ingredients

Lasagna Layers:

  • 9–12 lasagna noodles (gluten-free optional)
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese (or tofu for vegan)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or vegan cheese)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Vegetables:

  • 3 cups spinach (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • Optional extras: roasted butternut squash, asparagus, broccoli

White Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons butter (or vegan butter)
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour (gluten-free optional)
  • 3 cups milk (or plant-based milk)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish:

  • ½ cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add onion and garlic, cooking until translucent (3 minutes).
  3. Add zucchini, bell pepper, spinach, and mushrooms. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender (5–7 minutes).

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and ½ cup Parmesan. Mix well.

Step 4: Make the White Sauce

  1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Stir in flour to form a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna

  1. Spread a layer of white sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Place 3 noodles on top, then layer half of the ricotta mixture, half of the sautéed vegetables, and 1/3 of the remaining white sauce.
  3. Repeat layers: noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, remaining vegetables, and 1/3 of white sauce.
  4. Top with the final noodles, remaining white sauce, and sprinkle remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Step 6: Bake

  1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  2. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  3. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Tips for Success

  • Use Seasonal Veggies: Fresh, seasonal vegetables bring the best flavor. Spinach can be swapped for kale or Swiss chard.
  • Layer Evenly: Spread sauce thinly on the bottom and layer ingredients evenly for balanced bites.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the lasagna a day in advance. Increase baking time by 10–15 minutes if baking from cold.
  • Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven with a splash of milk for moistness.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
  • Serve alongside crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette.
  • Complement with a glass of Pinot Grigio or Chianti for a special dinner.

Nutritional Highlights (per serving, approximate)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Protein: 15–20 g
  • Fat: 15–20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40–50 g
  • Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from fresh vegetables

Loaded Veggie White Lasagna is a colorful, nutritious, and comforting twist on the classic Italian favorite. Creamy, cheesy, and veggie-packed, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or a special occasion.