1teaspoonkosher saltdivided (plus more for pasta water)
1/2teaspoonfresh ground black pepperdivided
12ouncesfrozen spinachthawed and drained well
2cupsricotta cheese
2cupsshredded mozzarella cheesedivided (8 ounces)
1cupshredded parmesan cheesedivided (4 ounces)
Fresh basil or parsleychopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 13 x 18 x 1-inch sheet pan with cooking spray.
Cook the Pasta: Break the 16 ounces lasagna noodles into 2-inch pieces. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta for 1 minute less than the package directions for al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Cook the Meat Sauce: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef and 1 small white onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 6–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary. Add the 4 garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the 4 cups marinara sauce, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 10 minutes if time allows.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Stir the cooked noodles into the skillet along with half of the 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese. Gently toss to coat everything in sauce. Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared sheet pan.
Mix Ricotta and Spinach: In a medium bowl, combine the 2 cups ricotta cheese, drained 12 ounces frozen spinach, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Drop dollops of the ricotta mixture evenly across the pasta.
Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 5 minutes before slicing into portions. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Notes
Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the lasagna completely, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5–10 minutes to the bake time if starting cold.Storage: Cool completely before cutting into portions. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave in 30-second intervals until hot, or cover with foil and reheat a pan of leftovers in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.Freezing: Assemble but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen (adding 15–20 minutes) or thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.Simplify Cleanup: Line your sheet pan with heavy-duty foil before baking for super easy cleanup.