Description
This Vegan Ricotta & Spinach Lasagna is rich, creamy, and deeply comforting, with layers of tender pasta, savory tomato sauce, garlicky spinach, and a smooth dairy-free ricotta that rivals the classic. It’s hearty enough for non-vegans, wholesome enough for everyday dinners, and perfect for make-ahead meals.
Introduction
Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, and this plant-based version proves you don’t need dairy to achieve indulgent flavor and satisfying texture. The vegan ricotta is creamy and lightly tangy, the spinach adds freshness and balance, and the baked layers come together into a sliceable, cozy dish that feels both nourishing and familiar.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This lasagna is completely dairy-free and egg-free, yet rich and filling. It’s packed with plant-based protein, easy to prepare, and perfect for meal prep. The flavors deepen as it rests, making it even better the next day. It’s also customizable with vegetables or gluten-free pasta.
Ingredients
For the Vegan Ricotta
14 oz (400 g) firm tofu, pressed
1/4 cup unsweetened plant milk
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Spinach Layer
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz (225 g) fresh spinach or frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Lasagna
9 lasagna noodles (regular or oven-ready)
3 cups marinara sauce
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Topping
Vegan mozzarella or cashew parmesan
Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegan Ricotta
Add tofu, plant milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper to a food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Spinach
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted and moisture evaporates. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
If using regular lasagna noodles, cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Oven-ready noodles can be used directly.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Layer noodles, vegan ricotta, spinach, and marinara sauce. Sprinkle with oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with sauce on top. Add vegan mozzarella if using.
Step 5: Bake
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until bubbling and lightly golden.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Variations
Add sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables.
Use lentils or plant-based ground meat for a heartier lasagna.
Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free lasagna noodles.
Add pesto between layers for an herby twist.
Tips for the Best Results
Press the tofu well to avoid excess moisture.
Let the lasagna rest before cutting for clean slices.
Use a thick marinara sauce to prevent a watery texture.
Season each layer lightly for balanced flavor throughout.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze baked or unbaked lasagna for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad and lemon vinaigrette.
Pair with garlic bread or focaccia.
Enjoy with roasted vegetables or a simple tomato cucumber salad.
FAQs
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time
Yes, assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Does vegan ricotta taste like real ricotta
It has a very similar creamy texture and mild flavor, especially once baked.
Can I use frozen spinach
Yes, just thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture before using.
Can I freeze individual slices
Yes, wrap slices tightly and freeze for easy single servings.
Conclusion
This Vegan Ricotta & Spinach Lasagna is proof that plant-based comfort food can be just as satisfying as the classic. Creamy, hearty, and full of layered flavor, it’s a dish you’ll return to again and again, whether you’re vegan or simply craving a wholesome, delicious meal.