Andy Montoya
Making lasagna with spinach and cottage cheese is a delicious and healthier twist on the classic Italian dish. This recipe combines layers of tender lasagna noodles, creamy cottage cheese, nutrient-rich spinach, and a savory tomato sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. The cottage cheese adds a light, tangy flavor while reducing the overall fat content compared to traditional ricotta, and the spinach brings a fresh, earthy taste along with a boost of vitamins and minerals. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this spinach and cottage cheese lasagna is easy to prepare and sure to impress with its hearty, flavorful profile.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Main Ingredients | Lasagna noodles, spinach, cottage cheese, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper |
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45-50 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 20 minutes |
| Servings | 6-8 |
| Difficulty Level | Intermediate |
| Dietary Considerations | Vegetarian (can be made gluten-free with GF lasagna noodles) |
| Key Steps | 1. Sauté spinach with garlic; 2. Mix cottage cheese with eggs; 3. Layer ingredients in a baking dish; 4. Bake until bubbly and golden |
| Optional Additions | Ricotta cheese (substitute for cottage cheese), red pepper flakes, nutmeg |
| Storage | Refrigerate for up to 3 days; freeze for up to 1 month |
| Reheating Instructions | Bake in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through |
| Nutritional Highlights | High in protein, calcium, and iron from spinach and cheeses |
| Popular Variations | Add mushrooms, zucchini, or ground turkey for extra flavor |
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What You'll Learn
- Prepare spinach filling: Sauté spinach, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until wilted and fragrant
- Mix cottage cheese blend: Combine cottage cheese, egg, parsley, and Parmesan for creamy texture
- Assemble layers: Alternate pasta, spinach, cottage cheese, and marinara sauce in baking dish
- Bake lasagna: Cover with foil, bake at 375°F for 30 minutes, then uncover for 15 minutes
- Rest and serve: Let sit for 10 minutes, slice, and garnish with fresh basil
Prepare spinach filling: Sauté spinach, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until wilted and fragrant
To prepare the spinach filling for your lasagna with spinach and cottage cheese, begin by gathering your ingredients: fresh spinach, garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Ensure your spinach is thoroughly washed to remove any grit or dirt. You can use a salad spinner or pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess water, as this will help the spinach cook more evenly. Mince the garlic cloves finely, as this will allow the garlic flavor to distribute well throughout the filling.
Heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to one minute, stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. The garlic should become fragrant and slightly softened but not browned. This step is crucial for building the flavor base of your spinach filling.
Next, add the fresh spinach to the pan in batches if necessary, as it will wilt down significantly. Toss the spinach with the garlic, ensuring it’s well-coated with the oil. Sprinkle a pinch of salt, pepper, and nutmeg over the spinach. The salt will help draw out moisture from the spinach, aiding in the wilting process, while the pepper and nutmeg add depth and warmth to the filling. Continue to sauté the spinach, stirring occasionally, until it is completely wilted and reduced in volume. This should take about 3-5 minutes. The spinach should be tender and vibrant green, with no raw or crunchy leaves remaining.
Once the spinach is fully wilted, remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. If there’s excess liquid in the pan, you can use a spoon to drain it or gently press the spinach against the side of the pan to release it. Excess moisture can make your lasagna watery, so it’s important to minimize it. Taste the spinach filling and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or nutmeg to suit your preference.
Finally, transfer the sautéed spinach to a bowl and set it aside to cool completely before combining it with the cottage cheese mixture for your lasagna layers. This spinach filling will add a nutritious and flavorful component to your dish, complementing the creamy cottage cheese and pasta layers perfectly. With the spinach filling prepared, you’re one step closer to assembling your delicious spinach and cottage cheese lasagna.
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Mix cottage cheese blend: Combine cottage cheese, egg, parsley, and Parmesan for creamy texture
To create a creamy and flavorful cottage cheese blend for your spinach and cottage cheese lasagna, start by gathering your ingredients: cottage cheese, one large egg, freshly chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in combining these ingredients thoroughly. Begin by placing the cottage cheese in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Cottage cheese adds a rich, creamy base to the blend, but it can sometimes be lumpy, so use a fork or a whisk to break it down slightly, ensuring a smoother consistency. This step is crucial for integrating the other ingredients seamlessly.
Next, crack the egg into the bowl with the cottage cheese. The egg acts as a binding agent, helping to hold the mixture together and adding a subtle richness. Whisk the egg into the cottage cheese until the mixture is well combined and has a uniform texture. The egg will also contribute to the creaminess of the blend, making it an essential component of this step. Ensure there are no streaks of egg yolk or white remaining, as this could affect the final texture of your lasagna layers.
Now, add the freshly chopped parsley to the bowl. Parsley not only brings a burst of color but also a fresh, herbal flavor that complements the other ingredients. Stir the parsley into the cottage cheese and egg mixture until it is evenly distributed. The parsley should be finely chopped to avoid any large pieces that might disrupt the smooth texture of the blend. This step adds a layer of complexity to the flavor profile of your lasagna.
Finally, incorporate the grated Parmesan cheese into the mixture. Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor and helps to thicken the blend slightly. Stir the Parmesan into the bowl, ensuring it is fully combined with the other ingredients. The Parmesan will enhance the overall creaminess and provide a delightful savory note. Once all the ingredients are well mixed, your cottage cheese blend is ready to be used in the lasagna assembly. This creamy, flavorful mixture will serve as a delicious layer in your spinach and cottage cheese lasagna, adding both texture and taste to the dish.
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Assemble layers: Alternate pasta, spinach, cottage cheese, and marinara sauce in baking dish
To begin assembling your spinach and cottage cheese lasagna, start by preparing your baking dish. Choose a dish that is large enough to accommodate multiple layers of ingredients, typically a 9x13 inch dish works well. Lightly grease the bottom and sides of the dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This initial step ensures that your lasagna will come out cleanly once it’s baked and ready to serve.
Next, lay the foundation of your lasagna with a layer of cooked lasagna noodles. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish to prevent the noodles from sticking and to add moisture. Place the noodles side by side, slightly overlapping if necessary, to cover the entire surface. This first layer of pasta sets the stage for the alternating layers of ingredients that will follow.
After the pasta layer, spread a generous amount of sautéed spinach evenly over the noodles. The spinach should be cooked until wilted and seasoned with a pinch of salt, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor. Ensure the spinach is well-distributed to create a consistent layer. This not only adds a nutritious element to your lasagna but also complements the other ingredients with its earthy taste.
Following the spinach, add a layer of cottage cheese. Spoon the cottage cheese over the spinach and use the back of the spoon to spread it evenly. Cottage cheese provides a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the marinara sauce. For a smoother consistency, you can blend the cottage cheese in a food processor before adding it to the lasagna.
Finally, ladle a layer of marinara sauce over the cottage cheese, spreading it evenly to cover the surface. The marinara sauce adds a robust tomato flavor and moisture to the lasagna, ensuring it doesn't dry out during baking. Be generous with the sauce, as it will also help bind the layers together. Repeat the layers in the same order—pasta, spinach, cottage cheese, and marinara sauce—until all ingredients are used, typically ending with a layer of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of shredded cheese for a golden, bubbly top.
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Bake lasagna: Cover with foil, bake at 375°F for 30 minutes, then uncover for 15 minutes
Once you’ve assembled your spinach and cottage cheese lasagna layers, it’s time to focus on the baking process to ensure a perfectly cooked dish. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while your lasagna is ready to go. This temperature is ideal for cooking the pasta thoroughly while allowing the flavors to meld together without burning the top layer. Before placing the lasagna in the oven, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This step is crucial because it helps trap moisture inside, ensuring the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out during the initial baking phase.
Place the foil-covered lasagna in the preheated oven and bake it for 30 minutes. This covered baking period allows the heat to penetrate the layers gradually, cooking the pasta and warming the spinach, cottage cheese, and sauce mixture. The foil acts as a barrier, preventing the top from browning too quickly while the interior cooks. After 30 minutes, carefully remove the lasagna from the oven using oven mitts, as the dish will be hot and heavy.
Now, it’s time to uncover the lasagna and let it bake for an additional 15 minutes. Remove the foil carefully, as steam will escape, and return the dish to the oven. This uncovered baking period serves two purposes: it allows any excess moisture to evaporate, preventing a soggy lasagna, and it gives the top layer a chance to brown slightly, adding a delightful texture contrast. Keep an eye on the lasagna during this time to ensure the top doesn’t burn, especially if your oven tends to run hot.
During the final 15 minutes, the flavors will intensify, and the top will develop a golden, bubbly crust that’s both appetizing and delicious. This step is essential for achieving the perfect balance of a creamy interior and a slightly crispy exterior. Once the 15 minutes are up, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve without the lasagna falling apart.
Baking your spinach and cottage cheese lasagna by first covering it with foil for 30 minutes and then uncovering it for 15 minutes ensures a well-cooked, flavorful, and beautifully textured dish. This method guarantees that the pasta is tender, the filling is heated through, and the top is golden and inviting. Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have a lasagna that’s both comforting and impressive.
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Rest and serve: Let sit for 10 minutes, slice, and garnish with fresh basil
Once your spinach and cottage cheese lasagna emerges from the oven, golden and bubbling, resist the urge to dive in immediately. The final, crucial step is to let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it allows the layers to set, ensuring that your lasagna holds its shape when sliced. Without this rest, you might end up with a messy, runny dish. Secondly, resting lets the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste. The spinach, cottage cheese, marinara sauce, and other ingredients need time to harmonize, creating a cohesive and delicious dish.
After the 10-minute rest, it’s time to slice the lasagna. Use a sharp knife or a spatula to cut through the layers cleanly. Start by making vertical cuts from one end to the other, then slice horizontally to create even portions. Take your time to ensure each piece includes all the layers—noodles, spinach, cottage cheese, and sauce—for a balanced bite. If the lasagna still feels too soft, let it rest for another 5 minutes before slicing.
Garnishing with fresh basil is the final touch that elevates your lasagna from homemade to restaurant-worthy. Just before serving, tear or chop fresh basil leaves and sprinkle them generously over the top. The bright, herbal flavor of basil complements the richness of the lasagna and adds a pop of color. If you have extra ingredients like cherry tomatoes or a drizzle of olive oil, you can add them alongside the basil for an even more impressive presentation.
Serving the lasagna is an art in itself. Place each slice on a plate, ensuring it stands upright to showcase the layers. Pair it with a simple side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. The contrast between the warm, cheesy lasagna and the fresh, crisp basil will delight your taste buds. Remember, the resting and garnishing steps may seem small, but they make a significant difference in both the texture and presentation of your spinach and cottage cheese lasagna.
Finally, take a moment to appreciate your creation before digging in. The resting period not only improves the lasagna but also gives you time to set the table or pour beverages. When you’re ready to serve, the lasagna will be perfectly set, easy to slice, and beautifully garnished with fresh basil. This attention to detail ensures that every bite is as satisfying as the last, making your spinach and cottage cheese lasagna a memorable dish for family and friends.
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Frequently asked questions
You’ll need lasagna noodles, cottage cheese, fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and drained), marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional ingredients like red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning.
If using fresh spinach, sauté it in olive oil with minced garlic until wilted. If using frozen spinach, thaw it, squeeze out excess water, and mix with garlic. Ensure the spinach is well-drained to avoid a soggy lasagna.
Yes, no-boil noodles work well. Just layer them directly in the casserole dish, ensuring they’re fully covered with sauce and cheese to soften during baking. Follow the package instructions for best results.
