Seashore Lasagna
Seashore Lasagna features large shell pasta filled with a creamy spinach and ricotta mixture, baked with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella for a hearty, cheesy Italian-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen chopped spinach and drain well.
- Cook the large shell pasta, then drain and allow to cool.
- Mix ricotta cheese, egg, cooked spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, and salt to taste.
- Stuff the cooled shells with the spinach mixture and place them in a casserole dish.
- Cover the shells with spaghetti sauce and layer with mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layering as needed.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 to 40 minutes until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a bit of cottage cheese or cream cheese to the ricotta mixture. If you're short on time, fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen, just sauté it briefly before mixing. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding cooked chicken or seafood for a non-vegetarian twist. This dish also pairs well with a side of garlic bread for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Seashore Lasagna hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving with garlic bread or a light Italian soup. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners with friends.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the lasagna to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes on high, ensuring it's heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Seashore Lasagna contains roughly 210 calories, with 12g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
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 make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, covered, until you're ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes in the oven cold. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
What can I substitute for the ricotta cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute, you can use cottage cheese or even Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Blending them will give you a similar creaminess. Additionally, if you're avoiding dairy, there are excellent non-dairy ricotta alternatives made from almonds or tofu that work well.
Is it possible to freeze the lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked lasagna for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to bake it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a bit more time if necessary.
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).