Imagine diving into a layers of pure culinary bliss - where tender lasagna noodles embrace rich ground beef, creamy goat cheese, and vibrant spinach, all smothered in a luscious marinara sauce that promises to transport you straight to an Italian grandmother's kitchen. This isn't just another lasagna recipe; this is a gourmet experience that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ground beef
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 cup goat cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until no pink remains, approximately 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook lasagna noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
- In a separate bowl, mix goat cheese with chopped fresh spinach, creating a creamy spinach mixture. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Begin layering the lasagna: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the first layer of lasagna noodles, slightly overlapping. Spread half the ground beef, followed by half the spinach-goat cheese mixture.
- Pour marinara sauce over the layer, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the layering process with remaining noodles, beef, spinach mixture, sauce, and top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn't touch the cheese. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow layers to set and cool slightly.
- Slice into 8 equal portions and serve hot, garnishing with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Always drain excess fat from ground beef to prevent a greasy lasagna
- Use fresh, high-quality goat cheese for maximum flavor complexity
- Cook lasagna noodles just until al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking
- Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes after baking to help layers set and make cutting easier
- For extra richness, consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese between layers
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the lasagna for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking
- Make ahead tip: This lasagna can be assembled and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 95mg
