Did You Know 73% of Home Cooks Avoid White Lasagna Because They Think It’s Too Complicated?
I used to be part of that statistic—until I discovered the magic of this Spinach and Mushroom White Lasagna recipe. Creamy, comforting, and packed with earthy flavors, it’s the kind of dish that makes you wonder why you ever settled for red sauce. The secret? A velvety béchamel layered with sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, and just the right amount of gooey cheese. No fuss, no intimidation—just pure, soul-warming deliciousness.
Picture this: golden layers of pasta cradling a rich, garlicky filling, bubbling under a crisp Parmesan crust. It’s the kind of meal that turns an ordinary Tuesday into something special. And here’s the best part—it’s easier to make than you think. Whether you’re a lasagna newbie or a seasoned pro, this recipe is your ticket to impressing everyone at the table (including yourself).
Why This Spinach and Mushroom White Lasagna Will Steal Your Heart
There’s something undeniably luxurious about a white lasagna. Unlike its tomato-based cousin, this version lets the flavors of the ingredients shine—creamy béchamel, tender mushrooms, and vibrant spinach meld together in perfect harmony. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party but cozy enough for a weeknight treat.
What makes this recipe stand out? For starters, we skip the ricotta (which can sometimes turn grainy) in favor of a smooth, nutmeg-kissed béchamel. Then, we layer in umami-packed mushrooms, lightly wilted spinach, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for that irresistible pull. Every bite is a balance of textures and tastes—earthy, creamy, and just a little bit decadent.
And let’s talk about the aroma. As this lasagna bakes, your kitchen will fill with the scent of garlic, herbs, and toasty cheese. It’s the kind of fragrance that brings everyone running to the table, forks at the ready.
PrintSpinach and Mushroom White Lasagna
- Author: Dorothy Miler
Description
A creamy and delicious vegetarian lasagna with layers of spinach, mushrooms, and a rich white sauce.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 3 cups milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook until the sauce thickens, stirring constantly.
- In a separate pan, sauté mushrooms until tender, then mix in spinach until wilted.
- In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of white sauce. Layer 3 lasagna noodles, half the ricotta, half the spinach-mushroom mixture, and a third of the mozzarella and parmesan. Repeat layers, ending with noodles and remaining white sauce and cheeses.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.
The Best Spinach and Mushroom White Lasagna Recipe
There’s something so comforting about a creamy, cheesy lasagna—especially when it’s packed with earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach. This white lasagna is a twist on the classic, swapping out the usual tomato sauce for a rich, velvety béchamel that hugs every layer. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to gather around the table with loved ones, savoring each bite slowly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 lasagna noodles – I like using no-boil noodles for convenience, but traditional ones work just as well (just parboil them first).
- 4 cups fresh spinach – Baby spinach is tender and cooks down beautifully, but mature spinach works too—just chop it finely.
- 16 oz cremini mushrooms – Sliced. These add a deep, meaty flavor, but white mushrooms work in a pinch.
- 1 small onion – Finely diced. It melts into the sauce, adding a subtle sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic – Minced. Because what’s a lasagna without garlic?
- 4 tbsp butter – For richness and that perfect golden béchamel.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – The base of our creamy white sauce.
- 3 cups whole milk – Warm it slightly before adding to prevent lumps.
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg – Just a pinch—it brightens the sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella – For that irresistible stretch.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan – The salty, nutty backbone of the dish.
- 1 cup ricotta – Creamy and light, it balances the other cheeses.
- Salt & pepper – To taste. Don’t be shy—season every layer!
- Olive oilong> – For sautéing the veggies.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Veggies
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Toss in the garlic and mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms release their juices and turn golden—about 8 minutes. Stir in the spinach in handfuls, letting it wilt slightly. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
2. Make the Béchamel
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it smells nutty (this is your roux—don’t rush it!). Gradually pour in the warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in the nutmeg, a pinch of salt, and a generous crack of black pepper.
3. Layer with L
ovePreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of béchamel on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish—this keeps the noodles from sticking. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce (they can overlap slightly). Spoon half the mushroom-spinach mixture over the noodles, followed by dollops of ricotta, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and a dusting of Parmesan. Drizzle with more béchamel. Repeat the layers, finishing with a final layer of noodles topped with the remaining béchamel and a generous blanket of mozzarella and Parmesan.
4. Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with foil (spray the underside with oil to prevent sticking) and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing—this keeps the layers intact and makes serving so much easier.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Spinach and Mushroom White Lasagna
Making lasagna can feel like a labor of love, but these pro tips will ensure your dish turns out flawless every time:
- Pre-cook your noodles – Even if using “no boil” noodles, a quick 2-minute blanch in boiling water prevents dry spots
- Squeeze your spinach dry – Use a clean kitchen towel to wring out every drop of moisture for perfect texture
- Layer with care – Spread fillings evenly but don’t overstuff. 3-4 thin layers cook more evenly than 2 thick ones
- Rest before serving – Let it sit 15 minutes after baking so the layers set beautifully
Delicious Variations to Try
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs:
- Protein boost – Add 1 cup shredded chicken or Italian sausage between layers
- Vegetable variations – Substitute kale for spinach or add roasted red peppers
- Cheese options – Try fontina instead of mozzarella for extra creaminess
- Gluten-freetrong> – Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and thicken the sauce with cornstarch
What to Serve With Your White Lasagna
This rich dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides:
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or crusty Italian loaf
- Roasted asparagus or green beans
- A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
The Surprising Benefits of This Comfort Food
While lasagna might seem indulgent, this version packs nutritional benefits:
- Spinach provides iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants
- Mushrooms offer immune-boosting selenium
- Whole milk ricotta is an excellent calcium source
- Using olive oil instead of butter adds heart-healthy fats
Real-Life Tips From My Kitchen to Yours
After making this lasagna dozens of times, here are my hard-won lessons:
- Make it ahead – The flavors improve overnight, and it freezes beautifully
- Use a deep 9×13 dish – Shallow pans lead to overflow disasters
- Cover with foil for the first 30 minutes to prevent over-browning
- Leftovers reheat perfectly in individual portions in the microwave
Conclusion
This Spinach and Mushroom White Lasagna is a cozy, comforting dish that brings together creamy béchamel, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach in perfect harmony. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to impress. The layers of tender pasta, rich cheese, and savory vegetables make every bite irresistible.
Now it’s your tur
n! Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out. Did you add any personal twists? We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below. And if you’re looking for more comforting pasta dishes, check out our recipe collection for more delicious inspiration.FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain the frozen spinach to remove excess moisture. Squeezing it in a clean kitchen towel works wonders to prevent a soggy lasagna.
What can I substitute for mushrooms if I don’t like them?
If mushrooms aren’t your thing, try swapping them with roasted zucchini, eggplant, or even sautéed bell peppers for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the lasagna, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Can I freeze this lasagna?
Definitely! Wrap the baked and cooled lasagna tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven.