Sunday Baked Vegetable Lasagna

Name: Sunday Baked Vegetable Lasagna
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 9 lasagna noodles; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 medium zucchini, sliced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnishing

Highlighted under: Oven Kitchen

I love making this Sunday Baked Vegetable Lasagna when I want a hearty yet wholesome meal. Knowing that my family enjoys vegetables is a plus, but the real magic lies in the layers of rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese. Each bite is filled with flavors that meld beautifully together, creating a dish that feels both satisfying and indulgent. Perfect for those cozy Sundays when you have a bit more time to spend in the kitchen, it also makes for excellent leftovers throughout the week.

Created by

Winifred Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:33:34.510Z

When preparing my Sunday Baked Vegetable Lasagna, I've learned that roasting the vegetables beforehand intensifies their flavors. I love the way the zucchini and bell peppers caramelize, adding a delightful sweetness to the layers. This step makes such a difference in the taste, ensuring every bite is packed with rich flavor.

Another tip I've discovered is to let the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. It seems like a small detail, but this resting time allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall texture. Trust me; it’s worth the wait!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Layers of fresh vegetables that add color and flavor
A creamy ricotta filling that elevates the texture
Perfect for family dinners and meal prep

Layering Techniques

When assembling your lasagna, consider the layering process carefully. Start with a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the dish; this prevents the noodles from sticking and infuses moisture into the layers. Alternate between noodles, cheese mixture, vegetables, and sauce, ensuring each layer is evenly distributed. This helps in achieving a balanced flavor in every bite rather than having a concentrated filling in one section.

To ensure even cooking, it's vital to use cooked noodles for the lasagna, which allows them to absorb some flavors without becoming overly soft. If you're short on time, you can opt for no-boil lasagna noodles, which will create a slightly different texture but still yield great results. Just remember to add a little extra marinara sauce to the layers to compensate for moisture absorption.

Storage and Reheating

If you anticipate leftovers, this lasagna stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To store, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual portions to airtight containers. Ideally, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. If you're on a time crunch, microwave portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring midway to promote even heating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled lasagna before baking. Wrap it tightly in foil, making sure no air can enter, and it will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time. This technique is great for meal prep and ensures you have a comforting dish ready whenever hunger strikes.

Vegetable Variations

One of the best aspects of this lasagna is its flexibility with vegetables. While zucchini, bell pepper, and mushrooms are fantastic, feel free to swap in your favorites based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Eggplant, carrots, or even roasted butternut squash can add their unique flavors and textures. Just make sure to chop them uniformly to ensure even cooking throughout the dish.

If you prefer a more robust flavor, consider sautéing your vegetables prior to roasting. This process enhances their natural sugars, leading to a deeper flavor profile. Additionally, adding herbs such as oregano or thyme to the vegetable mixture can elevate the taste, giving your lasagna a fresher feel while pairing perfectly with the rich marinara sauce.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Sunday Baked Vegetable Lasagna:

Ingredients

9 lasagna noodles
2 cups marinara sauce
1 medium zucchini, sliced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnishing

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start assembling your lasagna.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Sunday Baked Vegetable Lasagna:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Roast the Vegetables

In a bowl, toss the zucchini, bell pepper, and mushrooms with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for about 20 minutes until tender.

Cook the Noodles

While the vegetables are roasting, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them out flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Mix the Cheese Filling

In a separate bowl, combine ricotta, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Assemble the Lasagna

Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer with noodles, half of the cheese mixture, roasted vegetables, spinach, and more marinara. Repeat the layers and finish with remaining noodles, sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the lasagna cool for 15 minutes before slicing for the best texture.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sprinkling red pepper flakes into the ricotta mixture. You can also experiment with different vegetables based on your preference or what’s in season.

Ingredient Insights

The ricotta cheese in this recipe serves a critical role, providing creaminess that tempers the acidity of the tomato sauce. To amp up the flavor of your ricotta, consider mixing in some lemon zest or a dash of nutmeg. This simple addition can make your cheese filling more vibrant and exciting.

The marinara sauce can make or break your lasagna. A high-quality sauce or homemade version will yield a richer taste compared to store-bought alternatives. If pressed for time, opt for a crushed tomato base. Just add herbs and spices to elevate its flavor to a homemade level.

Serving Suggestions

This lasagna pairs beautifully with a simple side salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the greens complements the rich flavors of the lasagna, providing a refreshing contrast. You might also consider serving it with a crusty garlic bread to enhance the cozy dining experience.

For a twist, try adding a side of steamed or roasted broccoli, which not only adds vibrant color to your meal but also boosts the nutritional value. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes over the top before serving can add just the right amount of heat, appealing to spice lovers.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ Can I freeze leftover lasagna?

Yes, cooked lasagna freezes well. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you're not a fan of ricotta, you can use cottage cheese or even a blend of cream cheese and yogurt for a similar texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.