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Pumpkin Spinach Lasagna

Pumpkin Spinach Lasagna: A Cozy, Comforting Delight

This Pumpkin Spinach Lasagna is a delightful dish perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting family meal at home.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Feel free to use avocado oil for a unique taste.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Shallots can substitute for a milder flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced; garlic powder can work in a pinch.
  • 1 cup Pumpkin Puree The star of the dish; canned or homemade works.
  • 1 can Crushed Tomatoes Fresh tomatoes can replace canned.
  • 1 cup Vegetable Broth Chicken broth or water can be used.
  • 0.5 cup Heavy Cream Optional for a richer sauce; use coconut cream for dairy-free.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Sage Fresh herbs are great substitutes.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Fresh herbs are great substitutes.
  • 1 pinch Nutmeg Adjust amount if using fresh herbs.
  • to taste Salt Always taste and adjust as needed.
  • to taste Pepper Always taste and adjust as needed.
For the Filling
  • 1 cup Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese works for a lower-fat option.
  • 1 cup Frozen Spinach Ensure well-drained, or use fresh sautéed spinach.
  • 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast serves as a vegan option.
  • 1 large Egg Replace with a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder Omit if using fresh garlic.
For the Layers
  • 9 sheets Lasagna Noodles Oven-ready or regular noodles can be used. Gluten-free options are available.
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Use vegan mozzarella for a dairy-free version.
For Garnish
  • to taste Fresh Basil Feel free to substitute with parsley.

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • large baking dish
  • aluminum foil

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, warm up 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add chopped medium yellow onion and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
  2. Fold in 1 cup of pumpkin puree and 1 can of crushed tomatoes, mixing well. Pour in 1 cup of vegetable broth, season with dried sage, thyme, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low heat, covered, for at least 15 minutes.
  3. For an extra layer of richness, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Turn off the heat once incorporated.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, well-drained frozen spinach, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, and garlic powder. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then stir until evenly blended.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
  6. Begin layering by spreading a thin layer of pumpkin sauce on the bottom of the dish. Add a layer of noodles, half of the ricotta filling, and a handful of shredded mozzarella. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and mozzarella on top.
  7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. This helps meld the layers and develop flavors.
  8. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  9. Let the lasagna rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Layer evenly to avoid dry spots. Experiment with different cheeses for a flavor twist. Allow the lasagna to rest for at least 15 minutes after baking for clean slices. Drain and squeeze spinach thoroughly before using. Customize your sauce by adding vegetables or spices as you prefer.

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