Description
Enjoy a deliciously creamy white lasagna featuring layers of tender noodles, savory chicken and spinach filling, and rich béchamel sauce. Ideal for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground chicken or turkey
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups béchamel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
- Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
- Add ground chicken or turkey, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned (about 6-8 minutes).
- Stir in chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese and egg until smooth. Fold in the cooled meat and spinach mixture. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of flour and cook for 2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk, ensuring no lumps. Continue whisking until thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish.
- Place 3 lasagna noodles side by side over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta and meat mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of béchamel sauce. Sprinkle a third of the mozzarella cheese on top.
- Repeat layering: add another 3 noodles, remaining ricotta and meat mixture, another layer of béchamel, and another third of mozzarella.
- For the final layer, place the last 3 noodles on top. Spread remaining béchamel sauce and top with remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesnt touch the cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
- Slice into squares using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Pair with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can use store-bought béchamel sauce to save time.
- Feel free to substitute ground chicken or turkey with your choice of protein or make it vegetarian by omitting the meat.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes