When you’re craving comfort food but want to mix things up, this White Lasagna with Spinach and Mushrooms is the perfect dish. This vegetarian twist on the classic lasagna is creamy, flavorful, and packed with layers of rich ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, paired with a savory mushroom-spinach filling. Instead of the traditional marinara sauce, a velvety white sauce brings the entire dish together, offering a light yet indulgent experience. What makes this recipe stand out is its depth of flavor. The sautéed mushrooms add earthiness, while the spinach brings a burst of freshness and color. The creamy white sauce—made from butter, flour, milk, and heavy cream—binds all the ingredients together, making each bite melt in your mouth. It’s the perfect dish to prepare for a special dinner, a family gathering, or just when you’re craving something comforting and hearty. Let’s get started with the ingredients and the first steps to create this irresistible white lasagna.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Lasagna:

• 12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese

For the White Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat and Cook the Lasagna Noodles

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to the package directions, drain them, and set aside. If you’re using no-boil noodles, you can skip this step.

 

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5-6 minutes, until they release their moisture and become tender. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.

 

Making the White Sauce and Preparing the Cheese Mixture

Now that the vegetables are ready, it’s time to make the creamy white sauce that will envelop all of the lasagna layers. The white sauce, made with butter, flour, milk, and heavy cream, is what gives this lasagna its signature creamy texture. When combined with the cheese mixture and the sautéed spinach and mushrooms, it creates a rich, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step 3: Prepare the White Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes slightly golden. This forms a roux, which will help thicken your sauce. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture begins to simmer and thicken, about 5-7 minutes. Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, stir in the garlic powder, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove the sauce from the heat and set it aside.

 

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir in the mushroom-spinach mixture that you prepared earlier. This creates the creamy, flavorful filling that will layer beautifully in the lasagna.

Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna

Now that the sauce and cheese mixture are ready, it’s time to assemble the lasagna. Spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the noodles from sticking. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta-spinach-mushroom mixture. Pour some of the white sauce over the top and spread it evenly. Repeat with another layer of noodles, the remaining ricotta-spinach-mushroom mixture, and more white sauce.

 

Step 6: Top with Cheese

For the final layer, place a final layer of noodles on top, then pour over the remaining white sauce. Finish by sprinkling the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. This will create a wonderfully cheesy, golden crust once baked.

 

Step 7: Bake the Lasagna

Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The lasagna should be cooked through, with the cheese fully melted and the sauce bubbling around the edges.

Step 8: Let it Cool

Once the lasagna is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut.

Tips and Variations to make it your own:

This creamy, comforting White Lasagna with Spinach and Mushrooms is already packed with rich flavor and satisfying textures—but it’s also a perfect base for customization. Whether you want to add a little heat, sneak in more veggies, or turn it into a protein-packed main, there are so many easy ways to make it your own.

Here are practical tips and tasty variations to help you get the most out of this cozy, crowd-pleasing dish.

• Use Fresh or Frozen Spinach: Both work well. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture to avoid a watery lasagna.

• Sauté Mushrooms Properly: Cook mushrooms until they’ve released their liquid and are browned. This enhances their flavor and prevents sogginess.

• Let the Sauce Thicken: Simmer the white sauce (béchamel) until it coats the back of a spoon. A thick sauce holds the layers together better and prevents a runny finished product.

• Use No-Boil Lasagna Noodles for Ease: These save time and absorb moisture as they cook, helping the lasagna set properly.

• Rest Before Slicing: Let the lasagna rest for 10–15 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

Delicious Variations:

• Add Protein:

  • Chicken: Stir in cooked shredded chicken or rotisserie chicken for added heartiness.

  • Italian Sausage: Brown mild or spicy sausage with the mushrooms for a flavor boost.

  • Seafood: Try chopped shrimp or crab meat for a unique, elevated twist.

• Switch Up the Veggies:

  • Add zucchini, bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or butternut squash for more color and texture.

  • Caramelized onions add sweetness and depth to balance the creamy sauce.

• Try a Cheese Blend:

  • Mix in fontina, provolone, asiago, or gruyère with the mozzarella and parmesan for a more complex flavor.

  • Add ricotta between the layers for a creamier, more traditional texture.

• Make It Gluten-Free:

  • Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure your béchamel sauce is made with a gluten-free flour or cornstarch thickener.

• Spice It Up:

  • Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle between layers for a gentle heat.

  • Stir in a bit of garlic powder, thyme, or nutmeg to elevate the white sauce.

• Use Pesto for Extra Flavor:

  • Mix a spoonful of basil or spinach pesto into the white sauce for a herby, fresh twist.

• Make Individual Portions:

  • Assemble in ramekins or mini baking dishes for single servings—great for dinner parties or meal prepping.

 

White Lasagna Recipe with Spinach and Mushrooms: FAQ and Final Thoughts

Your White Lasagna with Spinach and Mushrooms is now assembled, and the final step is to bake it to golden, bubbly perfection. The rich combination of creamy white sauce, flavorful ricotta-spinach-mushroom filling, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses will make this dish irresistible. Let’s finish it off with a few final steps, answer some common questions, and wrap up with why this lasagna should be your go-to comfort food.

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! This lasagna can be prepared up to a day in advance. Simply assemble the lasagna, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. If you’ve stored it in the fridge, bake it for an additional 10–15 minutes to ensure it’s heated through. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months before baking.

Can I use store-bought white sauce instead of making my own?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought alfredo sauce or béchamel sauce as a substitute for the homemade white sauce. Just make sure the sauce is creamy and has a similar flavor profile to the one in the recipe.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free lasagna noodles. Just be sure to follow the instructions on the package, as cooking times can vary with gluten-free pasta.

Can I add other vegetables to this lasagna?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers, to the spinach and mushroom mixture. Just make sure to sauté them beforehand to remove excess moisture.

Can I make this lasagna vegan?

Yes, you can make this dish vegan by using vegan ricotta, dairy-free mozzarella, and a plant-based milk like almond milk or oat milk. For the white sauce, substitute the butter with vegan butter and use a flour-based roux.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This White Lasagna with Spinach and Mushrooms

This White Lasagna with Spinach and Mushrooms is a perfect twist on a classic comfort dish. The creamy white sauce, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach come together in a way that’s both comforting and delicious. It’s perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a rich, indulgent dish that’s a little different from traditional lasagna. What’s great about this recipe is its versatility—whether you’re making it ahead of time, freezing it for later, or experimenting with additional vegetables, it’s easy to customize and make your own. The balance of textures—from the creamy sauce to the tender noodles and vegetables—creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. So, whether you’re hosting a family dinner, preparing for a holiday meal, or simply craving comfort food, this White Lasagna with Spinach and Mushrooms is sure to impress. Enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite! Print