1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Mozzarella adds that perfect melty, gooey texture when baked.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Parmesan cheese offers a sharp, nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with the creamy elements of the dish.
Step-by-Step Preparation for Creamy Spinach & Mushroom Lasagna
Step 1: Preparing the Lasagna Noodles
Before diving into the sauce and the filling, begin by preparing the lasagna noodles. If you’re using traditional lasagna noodles (not no-boil), follow these steps:
Boil the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook them according to the package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes until al dente.
Drain and rinse: Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and rinse them under cold water to prevent them from sticking together.
Set aside: Lay the noodles flat on a clean kitchen towel or drizzle with a bit of olive oil to keep them from sticking while you prepare the rest of the dish.
If you’re using no-boil lasagna noodles, you can skip this step as they will cook during the baking process.
Step 2: Making the Creamy Spinach and Mushroom Sauce
The heart of this lasagna lies in its creamy, flavorful sauce, made by combining earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach with a rich cream base. Follow these steps:
Sauté the onion and garlic: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and continue sautéing for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its aromatic flavors.
Cook the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften and release their moisture. Stir occasionally, allowing the mushrooms to brown lightly and develop a deeper flavor.
Add the spinach: Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the fresh spinach leaves to the pan. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the spinach wilts down and reduces in volume. If the spinach appears too watery, let it cook a little longer to release the moisture.
Make the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and vegetable broth, stirring to combine everything evenly. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the flavors are well-balanced.
Finish the sauce: Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from heat and set it aside. This creamy spinach and mushroom mixture will be the foundation of your lasagna’s filling.
Step 3: Assembling the Lasagna
With the noodles prepared and the sauce ready, it’s time to assemble the lasagna. Layering is essential to ensure each bite contains a perfect combination of pasta, sauce, and cheese.
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