Last Minute Lasagna
A quick, cheesy lasagna with ravioli and spinach, perfect for busy weeknights needing hearty comfort food with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Spray a 13 x 9 inch pan with cooking spray and spread 1/3 of the pasta sauce on the bottom.
- Arrange a layer of frozen cheese ravioli on top of the sauce.
- Scatter thawed chopped spinach over the ravioli layer.
- Top with 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Add another layer of ravioli on top of the spinach and cheese.
- Cover the layer with remaining pasta sauce and sprinkle with the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker prep, use fresh spinach instead of frozen, or mix in some ricotta cheese for creaminess. If you prefer a meat layer, try adding cooked ground beef or turkey between the ravioli layers. You can substitute the mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a different flavor. To enhance flavors, add Italian herbs like basil and oregano to the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Last Minute Lasagna with a fresh side salad, such as a Spaghetti-Vegetable Salad, to complement the rich flavors. Garlic bread or a light Italian bread would also pair nicely. For a finishing touch, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; just ensure it's tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Last Minute Lasagna contains roughly 591 calories, with 43g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (85% of the Daily Value), calcium (83% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1457mg per serving (63% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade pasta sauce instead of jarred?
Absolutely! Homemade sauce can elevate the flavors of your lasagna. If using a homemade sauce, ensure it's thick enough to hold up during baking. You may want to simmer it longer to reduce the liquid, creating a robust base for your layers.
Can I prepare this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for an easy meal when you're short on time.
Is it possible to make this lasagna gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the frozen cheese ravioli with gluten-free pasta alternatives. Many brands offer gluten-free ravioli that will work perfectly in this dish. Just ensure that the pasta sauce is also gluten-free to keep the entire recipe compliant.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).