When that deep craving for truly comforting food hits, I always turn to dishes that promise warmth and flavor without a lot of fuss. This white lasagna recipe Spinach Pesto Drizzle delivers just that, with layers of bubbling, golden cheese and the fresh aroma of vibrant pesto. It’s a perfect family-friendly meal, simple enough for busy weeknights, and fantastic for wholesome healthy eating. I love making a big 9×13 dish on a Sunday so we have delicious leftovers ready for quick meals all week. Our simplified approach ensures homemade lasagna is stress-free and deliciously rewarding.
What You’ll Need (Ingredients & Why They Matter)
Crafting a truly memorable white lasagna recipe Spinach Pesto Drizzle starts with understanding each ingredient’s role.
For the Creamy White Sauce (Béchamel)
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter: The classic base for a thick, rich béchamel.
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour: Helps create a luxuriously smooth, thick sauce.
- 4 cups (960ml) whole or 2% milk: Creates a creamy, flavorful sauce. (Swap: Unsweetened plain almond milk works for dairy-free.)
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: The secret ingredient for an authentic, warm depth.
- 15 oz (425g) whole milk ricotta cheese: Adds creamy texture and a mild tanginess to the layers.
- 1 cup (80g) grated Parmesan cheese: For savory, umami flavor throughout the lasagna. Use freshly grated for best results.
- 2 cups (226g) shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese: Essential for those irresistible melty, gooey layers.
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
The Heart of the Lasagna
- 12-15 oven-ready lasagna noodles (approx. 9 oz / 255g): A huge time-saver – no pre-boiling needed! (Regular noodles work too, just par-boil as directed.)
- 10 oz (280g) fresh spinach: Adds a healthy green boost and lovely color to each bite.
The Star: Spinach Pesto Drizzle
- 2 cups (60g) fresh basil leaves: The primary herb for a vibrant, aromatic pesto.
- 1 cup (30g) baby spinach: Boosts green color and adds mild flavor.
- 2 large garlic cloves: For that essential aromatic kick.
- 1/4 cup (35g) pine nuts (or walnuts): Provides richness and a subtle crunch.
- 1/2 cup (40g) grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth to the pesto.
- 1/2 cup (120ml) extra virgin olive oil: Brings it all together into a smooth, emulsified drizzle.
Flavor Boosters & Smart Swaps
- 1.5 cups cooked, shredded chicken or plant-based crumble: For a heartier, protein-packed white lasagna recipe.
- Unsweetened dairy-free milk & vegan mozzarella: Easy alternatives for dietary needs without sacrificing creaminess.
- Gluten-free lasagna noodles: A simple swap to make this a gluten-free family-friendly meal.
- Fresh parsley or oregano: For garnish and an extra pop of fresh flavor.
How to Make White Lasagna with Spinach Pesto Drizzle Step by Step
Prep Your Ingredients & Pesto
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and gather ingredients for this white lasagna recipe Spinach Pesto Drizzle. Blend basil, spinach, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil until smooth for the pesto; set aside.
Craft the Creamy White Sauce
Melt butter in a large pot. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until it becomes lightly fragrant. Gradually whisk in milk and simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats a spoon (5-7 minutes). Remove from heat, stir in ricotta, half of the Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. If your sauce is too thin, simmer it longer; if too thick, add a splash more milk.
Assemble the Lasagna Layers
- Spread a thin layer of white sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Create layers: noodles, a third of remaining white sauce, a third of fresh spinach, then a third of shredded mozzarella. Repeat two more times.
- Finish with noodles, sauce, and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan for a rich, golden top.
Bake to Golden Perfection
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, until the top is bubbly and beautifully golden brown. Let the white lasagna recipe rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing; this is crucial for clean, beautiful slices!
Drizzle and Serve
Just before serving, spoon or drizzle the vibrant spinach pesto over the warm slices of lasagna. Enjoy this hearty white lasagna recipe Spinach Pesto Drizzle immediately for a truly comforting meal.
Quick Tips for Success
- Don’t overfill: Ensure enough space for bubbling to prevent messy overflows in your oven.
- Resting time is key: Allows the white lasagna to set, making it easier to slice cleanly and maintain its layers. I always let mine rest for at least 15 minutes; it makes such a difference for neat servings!
- Troubleshooting: If your béchamel sauce is too thin, simmer it longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk until desired consistency.
Best Ways to Enjoy This White Lasagna
This creamy white lasagna is incredibly versatile for various occasions. It’s perfect for creating easy weeknight dinners, simplifying your healthy recipes for dinner meal prepping, and providing quick, satisfying lunches that reheat beautifully.
- Special Occasions: This white lasagna recipe with Spinach Pesto Drizzle is a true crowd-pleaser for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or family celebrations. Even my niece, who usually shies away from green veggies, eagerly asks for seconds of this creamy dish!
- Perfect Pairings:
- Sides: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, crusty garlic bread, or steamed green beans complement the richness beautifully.
- Toppings: A sprinkle of extra fresh basil, red pepper flakes for a little kick, or a dusting of more Parmesan cheese.
- Drinks: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio, refreshing sparkling water with lemon, or unsweetened iced tea.
Nutrition & Everyday Wellness with White Lasagna
This white lasagna offers a balanced meal, providing essential carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. It’s easily adaptable for those seeking easy high-protein meals by adding lean chicken, or for incorporating more greens into your diet.
- Benefits:
- Satiety: The rich combination of cheese, sauce, and noodles keeps you feeling full and satisfied longer, perfect for sustained energy.
- Energy Boost: Provides wholesome energy from carbohydrates and protein to fuel your day and keep you going.
- Rich in Vitamins & Minerals: Especially from the vibrant spinach and dairy, contributing to bone health and overall wellness for the whole family.
- Hearty & Wholesome: Made with fresh, recognizable ingredients, you can feel good about serving this nutritious white lasagna.
How This Recipe Solves Common Needs
Our white lasagna recipe with Spinach Pesto Drizzle is designed for practical home cooking, addressing several everyday challenges. It’s a fantastic choice for busy families looking for convenient and delicious meal solutions.
- Time Savings: Utilize oven-ready noodles and make a large batch for delicious leftovers, making family meal prep ideas an absolute breeze for your healthy eating goals.
- Nutrition Value: This is a delicious way to sneak in extra greens and provide a high-protein, calcium-rich meal that everyone will love.
- Versatility: The recipe is easily adaptable for different tastes, protein preferences, and dietary restrictions, keeping your healthy recipes for dinner exciting and fresh.
- Budget-Friendly: It uses common, affordable organic ingredients that stretch to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
Expert Pointers and Smart Variations
Elevate your cooking experience with these simple tips and adjustments for your white lasagna. These tricks help ensure a perfect result every time and cater to diverse family needs.
- Cooking Tricks:
- Make the Pesto Ahead: Prepare the Spinach Pesto Drizzle up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge in an airtight container to save valuable time on busy days.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach: If using frozen spinach for the lasagna layers, thaw it thoroughly and squeeze out all excess water. This step is crucial to prevent a watery lasagna.
- Grate Your Own Cheese: For the best results, always grate your own Parmesan and mozzarella. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and tastes significantly better than pre-shredded varieties.
- Adjustments for Family: Add cooked ground beef or turkey to the white sauce for extra protein, turning this into an even heartier dish. Hide finely diced zucchini or mushrooms in the white sauce for extra hidden veggies kids won’t notice.
- Dietary Tweaks: Explore low-sodium options for broth if using in the sauce, or use plant-based milk and cheeses for a delicious dairy-free version of this classic.
Common Questions About White Lasagna
Can I freeze this white lasagna recipe with spinach pesto drizzle for later?
Absolutely! This white lasagna recipe is excellent for meal prep. Assemble and bake the lasagna, then cool completely. You can freeze individual portions or the whole pan, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through.
What’s the healthiest way to make white lasagna?
To make a healthier white lasagna, opt for whole wheat lasagna noodles, use skim or 1% milk for the béchamel, and add lean protein like cooked chicken breast. Maximizing the fresh spinach content in the layers and the pesto also boosts the nutrient profile for a truly healthy and satisfying meal.
Which ingredients are best for meal prepping white lasagna?
For efficient meal prepping, prioritize oven-ready lasagna noodles to skip a step. Pre-cooked protein, if you’re adding any, is also a time-saver. Making a big batch of the creamy white sauce and the Spinach Pesto Drizzle ahead of time ensures quick assembly later in the week.
Can I make white lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, this white lasagna recipe is perfect for making in advance! You can assemble the entire lasagna up to 24 hours prior to baking. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the initial baking time if baking directly from cold.
How do I prevent my white lasagna from being watery?
The key to a non-watery lasagna is two-fold: always ensure all excess moisture is squeezed out of your fresh or thawed spinach before layering. Also, confirm your béchamel sauce is thick enough; I usually let it simmer until it visibly coats the back of a spoon, which helps prevent a runny final dish.
Is this white lasagna recipe gluten-free?
It can easily be! To make this white lasagna recipe gluten-free, simply swap out traditional lasagna noodles for an equal amount of gluten-free lasagna noodles. Also, double-check that all other ingredients, especially your cheeses, are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
This White Lasagna Recipe with Spinach Pesto Drizzle offers a hearty, wholesome, and incredibly delicious meal that’s both comforting and fresh. It’s a testament to easy home cooking at its best, providing a fantastic, family-friendly option.
I hope you try this comforting dish tonight and make it a new family favorite; it truly is a great addition to your healthy eating routine! Pin this recipe now for easy reference, or print it for your collection of delicious meal prep recipes.
white lasagna recipe Spinach Pesto Drizzle
- Total Time: 95 minutes
- Yield: 8–12 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
This white lasagna recipe with Spinach Pesto Drizzle offers layers of bubbling, golden cheese and the fresh aroma of vibrant pesto. It is a family-friendly meal, simple enough for busy weeknights, and fantastic for wholesome healthy eating.
Ingredients
- 0.5 cup (113g) unsalted butter
- 0.5 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 4 cups (960ml) whole or 2 percent milk
- 0.25 tsp ground nutmeg
- 15 oz (425g) whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup (80g) grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
- 2 cups (226g) shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 12–15 oven-ready lasagna noodles (approx. 9 oz / 255g)
- 10 oz (280g) fresh spinach
- 2 cups (60g) fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup (30g) baby spinach
- 2 large garlic cloves
- 0.25 cup (35g) pine nuts (or walnuts)
- 0.5 cup (40g) grated Parmesan cheese (for pesto)
- 0.5 cup (120ml) extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven & Make Pesto: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and gather all ingredients. In a blender, combine basil, spinach, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan (for pesto), and olive oil until smooth for the pesto; set aside.
- Craft Creamy White Sauce: Melt butter in a large pot. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until lightly fragrant. Gradually whisk in milk and simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats a spoon (5-7 minutes). Remove from heat, stir in ricotta, half of the Parmesan (for sauce), nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble Lasagna Layers: Spread a thin layer of white sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Create layers: noodles, a third of remaining white sauce, a third of fresh spinach, then a third of shredded mozzarella. Repeat this layering process two more times. Finish the top layer with noodles, sauce, and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan for a rich, golden top.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, until the top is bubbly and beautifully golden brown.
- Drizzle and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing; this is crucial for clean, beautiful slices. Just before serving, spoon or drizzle the vibrant spinach pesto over the warm slices of lasagna. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
To avoid messy overflows, do not overfill the baking dish. Resting time (at least 15 minutes) is crucial for neat slices. If the béchamel sauce is too thin, simmer it longer; if too thick, add a splash more milk until desired consistency. For dietary needs, unsweetened plain almond milk can substitute dairy milk, and vegan mozzarella can be used. Gluten-free lasagna noodles are a simple swap for a gluten-free meal. Cooked, shredded chicken or plant-based crumble can be added for a heartier meal.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 200 g)
- Calories: 500 calories
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 1000 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 55 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
Keywords: white lasagna, spinach pesto, family meal, easy dinner, comfort food, weeknight, creamy sauce, baking, Italian-American, healthy eating