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Imagine this: It’s a cool evening, and you’re surrounded by the people you love most. The smell of something warm, cheesy, and utterly delicious fills your kitchen. You set a creamy, bubbly dish on the table, and everyone’s eyes light up. That’s the magic of Vegetable Lasagna With White Sauce. This isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. The creamy white sauce layered between tender vegetables, lasagna sheets, and gooey cheese is pure comfort in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a cozy dinner, this dish is always a winner. Ready to create your own slice of perfection? Let’s dive in.
What Is Vegetable Lasagna With White Sauce?
Vegetable lasagna with white sauce is a twist on the traditional lasagna, replacing the classic tomato-based marinara with a luscious, creamy béchamel sauce. It’s layered with fresh vegetables, tender pasta sheets, and melted cheese to create a rich, satisfying, and comforting dish.
This recipe is perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a delicious way to pack more vegetables into their meals without compromising on flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Vegetable Lasagna
- Creamy and Cheesy: The white sauce adds an indulgent, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the vegetables and cheese.
- Packed with Veggies: A great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without even realizing it.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prep for the week, this lasagna works for every scenario.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble it in advance and bake it when you’re ready.
Ingredients for Vegetable Lasagna With White Sauce
For the White Sauce (Béchamel):
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk (or plant-based milk for a vegan option)
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Vegetable Filling:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- ½ cup broccoli florets, finely chopped
- Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste
For the Lasagna Layers:
- 9-12 lasagna sheets (no-boil or pre-cooked)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the White Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste (roux).
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Continue stirring until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper for flavor. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the onions and garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the mushrooms, zucchini, broccoli, carrots, and spinach. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and any excess moisture has evaporated.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom of the dish.
- Add a layer of lasagna sheets, making sure they slightly overlap.
- Spread a portion of the cooked vegetables evenly over the pasta.
- Drizzle with white sauce and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Repeat the layers (pasta, vegetables, white sauce, cheese) until all ingredients are used, ending with a generous layer of cheese on top.
4. Bake the Lasagna
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Perfect Vegetable Lasagna With White Sauce
- Prep Ahead: Chop all your vegetables and make the white sauce ahead of time to save time on assembly day.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the lasagna rest before slicing helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
- Customize the Veggies: Use whatever vegetables you have on hand—bell peppers, eggplant, or kale work great too.
- Use No-Boil Lasagna Sheets: Save time by using lasagna sheets that don’t require pre-cooking.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 320 |
Protein | 15g |
Carbohydrates | 28g |
Fat | 17g |
Fiber | 4g |
Sugar | 6g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.
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Creative Variations to Try
1. Vegan Vegetable Lasagna
Use almond milk or oat milk for the béchamel sauce and replace the cheeses with vegan alternatives or nutritional yeast.
2. Gluten-Free Option
Swap the lasagna sheets for gluten-free pasta sheets or thinly sliced zucchini.
3. Protein-Packed Lasagna
Add cooked lentils or chickpeas to the vegetable filling for extra protein.
4. Pesto Twist
Mix a spoonful of basil pesto into the white sauce for a burst of fresh, herby flavor.
5. Spicy Version
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetable filling for a spicy kick.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions of the lasagna in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave for a quicker option.
FAQs About Vegetable Lasagna With White Sauce
1. Can I Make This Lasagna Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it (uncooked) for up to 24 hours. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.
2. Can I Use Store-Bought White Sauce?
Absolutely. If you’re short on time, store-bought Alfredo sauce or béchamel can work as a substitute.
3. Can I Freeze the Lasagna?
Yes, vegetable lasagna freezes beautifully. Assemble it, wrap tightly, and freeze before or after baking.
4. What Cheese Works Best for This Recipe?
Mozzarella and Parmesan are classics, but ricotta, Gruyère, or even vegan cheese can be great additions.
5. How Do I Prevent the Lasagna From Being Watery?
Make sure to cook the vegetables thoroughly to remove excess moisture and let the lasagna rest before slicing.
6. Can I Add Meat to This Dish?
If you’re not vegetarian, you can add cooked ground turkey, chicken, or sausage to the vegetable filling.
Why You Should Make Vegetable Lasagna With White Sauce Tonight
Vegetable Lasagna With White Sauce isn’t just another dinner—it’s a dish that brings people together. It’s comforting, packed with flavor, and offers the perfect balance of indulgence and nourishment. Whether you’re feeding your family or cooking for yourself, this lasagna is guaranteed to make everyone smile.
So why not gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat? You’re going to love every creamy, cheesy, veggie-filled bite.
PrintQuick Vegetable Lasagna With White Sauce | Best Weeknight Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Vegetable Lasagna With White Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of creamy béchamel, tender pasta sheets, and a medley of colorful, sautéed vegetables. It’s a hearty, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep. Whether you’re vegetarian or simply looking to enjoy a meatless meal, this lasagna is guaranteed to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
For the White Sauce (Béchamel):
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- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk (or plant-based milk for a vegan option)
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Vegetable Filling:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 cup baby spinach leaves
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- ½ cup broccoli florets, finely chopped
- Salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste
For the Lasagna Layers:
-
- 9–12 lasagna sheets (no-boil or pre-cooked)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the White Sauce:
-
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a smooth roux.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Add nutmeg (if using), salt, and black pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
-
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the onions and garlic for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the mushrooms, zucchini, broccoli, carrots, and spinach. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and any excess moisture has evaporated.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Set aside.
-
Assemble the Lasagna:
-
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom of the dish.
- Lay down a layer of lasagna sheets, overlapping slightly.
- Spread a portion of the sautéed vegetables over the pasta.
- Drizzle with white sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a generous layer of white sauce and cheese on top.
Bake the Lasagna:
-
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Vegetable Choices: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers, eggplant, or kale.
- Prevent a Watery Lasagna: Cook the vegetables thoroughly to remove excess moisture, and let the lasagna rest before cutting.
- Make It Vegan: Replace the milk with plant-based milk, and use vegan butter, cheese, and ricotta alternatives.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or use a microwave for a quicker option.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired