# **Creamy Spinach & Mushroom Lasagna 🍄🧀🌿 – A Comforting, Delicious Classic**
## **Introduction: A Lusciously Creamy & Savory Twist on Lasagna**
If you’re a fan of creamy, cheesy comfort food, then this **Creamy Spinach & Mushroom Lasagna** is about to become your new favorite dish. Featuring layers of perfectly cooked lasagna noodles, an ultra-creamy ricotta filling, and a rich mushroom-spinach sauté, this dish is a cozy, flavorful indulgence.
Unlike the classic red sauce-based lasagna, this recipe brings together a luxurious cream sauce that enhances the earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach, balanced by the perfect amount of nutmeg. It’s a delectable blend of flavors and textures, making it an excellent choice for a comforting dinner or a special gathering.
## **Quick Recipe Highlights**
– **Flavor Profile:** A creamy, cheesy, and garlicky richness with an earthy depth from mushrooms and a fresh twist from nutmeg and basil.
– **Texture:** Smooth, cheesy layers balanced with tender, juicy mushrooms and fresh spinach.
– **Aroma:** The blend of buttery mushrooms, garlic, and nutmeg creates a warm, inviting scent.
– **Visual Appeal:** Golden, bubbly cheese with vibrant green spinach peeking through layers.
– **Skill Level Needed:** Medium – requires layering, sauce-making, and baking.
– **Special Equipment:** 9×13-inch baking dish, large skillet, medium saucepan.
## **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
This **Creamy Spinach & Mushroom Lasagna** is perfect for vegetarians and anyone who enjoys a rich and flavorful baked dish. Unlike traditional lasagna, this version uses a velvety **cream sauce** in place of tomato sauce, bringing a unique and indulgent twist.
It’s an excellent dish to make **ahead of time**—great for meal prep or serving at a dinner party with minimal last-minute effort. Simply assemble in advance, refrigerate, and bake when needed.
The **cheese combination** of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan provides a satisfying richness, while the mushroom-spinach mix keeps it balanced and flavorful. Plus, it’s surprisingly **budget-friendly**, using simple and wholesome ingredients.
## **Ingredient Deep Dive**
### **Mushrooms 🍄**
Mushrooms bring an earthy umami flavor to this lasagna. Cremini or button mushrooms are excellent choices, as they hold up well to cooking and provide a robust texture. Slice them thin to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
### **Spinach 🌿**
Fresh baby spinach adds color, nutrients, and a mild bitterness that enhances the dish. It wilts quickly, making it easy to incorporate. If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture.
### **Ricotta Cheese 🧀**
Ricotta adds a creamy texture without overpowering the overall flavor. For an extra touch of creaminess, mix it with grated Parmesan and basil for a well-seasoned filling.
## **Common Mistakes to Avoid**
– **Skipping the Sauté:** Cooking mushrooms first removes excess moisture, preventing a watery lasagna.
– **Overcooking Noodles:** Cook them al dente to prevent mushy layers.
– **Skipping Rest Time:** Letting the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes after baking helps it set for cleaner slices.
– **Not Using Enough Sauce:** The cream sauce binds all elements together—don’t skimp!
## **The Recipe**
### **Creamy Spinach & Mushroom Lasagna**
**Serves:** 6
**Prep Time:** 20 mins
**Cook Time:** 40 mins
**Total Time:** 60 mins
### **Kitchen Equipment Needed**
– Large skillet
– Medium saucepan
– 9×13-inch baking dish
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
### **Ingredients**
– 9 lasagna noodles
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups sliced mushrooms (cremini or button)
– 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 15 ounces ricotta cheese
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
### **Directions**
1. **Preheat Oven & Prep Noodles:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook lasagna noodles until al dente, drain, and rinse under cold water.
2. **Sauté Mushrooms & Spinach:** In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté mushrooms for 5 minutes until browned. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in spinach until wilted (about 2 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Remove from heat.
3. **Make the Cream Sauce:** In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to form a paste. Gradually whisk in heavy cream. Cook until thickened (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat.
4. **Prepare Ricotta Mix:** In a bowl, stir together ricotta, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, and chopped basil.
5. **Assemble Lasagna:** Spread a thin layer of cream sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer as follows: 3 lasagna noodles, half the spinach-mushroom mix, half the ricotta, and 1/3 of the mozzarella. Repeat layers. Top with final noodles, remaining cream sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
6. **Bake:** Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. **Rest & Serve:** Let lasagna cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil.
## **Make-Ahead & Storage Tips**
– **Make-Ahead Option:** Assemble up to the baking step and refrigerate overnight.
– **Storage:** Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– **Freezing:** Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
– **Reheating:** Warm in an oven at 350°F until heated through.
## **Wine & Beverage Pairing**
Pair this rich lasagna with a **Chardonnay** or **Pinot Noir** for a perfect balance. Non-alcoholic options include herbal teas or sparkling water with lemon.
This **Creamy Spinach & Mushroom Lasagna** delivers restaurant-quality taste in a home-cooked meal. Try it this week for a hearty, cheesy, and delicious family dinner! 🍽️
