Sunday Baked Vegetable Lasagna

Name: Sunday Baked Vegetable Lasagna
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 lasagna noodles; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 medium zucchini, sliced; 1 cup spinach, fresh; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Collection

I love making Sunday baked vegetable lasagna because it’s a comforting meal that the whole family enjoys. It’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables, and each layer brings its unique flavor. The blend of cheeses adds creaminess, while the marinara sauce ties everything together beautifully. As the lasagna bakes, the kitchen fills with a delicious aroma that has everyone eagerly waiting for dinner. This is a dish I look forward to on weekends, bringing together fresh ingredients and hearty flavors all in one pan.

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-01-12T04:01:34.655Z

When I first attempted this lasagna, I wanted to create a dish that was not only satisfying but also packed with nutritious vegetables. I experimented with different vegetable combinations and landed on zucchini, spinach, and bell peppers. These veggies add a lovely color and texture contrast!

Baking it slowly allows the flavors to meld perfectly. I recommend letting it rest for 10 minutes before slicing, which helps the layers remain intact. Make sure to layer it well so every bite packs a punch of flavor!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty vegetable layers that make it a nutritious choice
Rich cheese melting beautifully for that gooey goodness
Perfect balance of flavors that satisfy all palates

      

Building Flavorful Layers

Each layer in your lasagna contributes to the overall profile of the dish. Start with a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom, as it prevents the noodles from sticking and sets a flavorful base. The vegetables you choose can vary by season—zucchini and bell peppers add sweetness and texture, while spinach brings a vibrant color and essential nutrients. Feel free to include other veggies like mushrooms or roasted eggplant for deeper flavors. Aim for about two cups of chopped vegetables total to keep a balanced structure and achieve that hearty feel.

The creaminess of ricotta cheese in the filling is not just for the taste; it also binds the ingredients. To enhance its flavor, you can mix in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or even add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth. Be mindful when adding salt; cheese and sauce already bring some sodium, so a light hand here ensures the lasagna remains savory without being overly salty. If you're looking for a vegan option, swap ricotta with blended silken tofu and nutritional yeast for that creamy texture.

Baking to Perfection

Baking lasagna correctly is crucial for the best texture. Covering the dish with foil during the first half of cooking helps the noodles absorb moisture, ensuring they cook through without drying out. When you remove the foil, the cheese can bubble and develop golden edges—look for a bubbly surface that’s just starting to brown for the ideal finish. If you notice the edges browning too fast, consider shifting the rack down in the oven or loosely re-covering with foil to regulate browning.

Resting the lasagna after baking is key. Allowing it to sit for about 10 minutes lets the layers stabilize, making it easier to slice and serve without losing that beautiful presentation. If you're making this dish ahead of time, you can assemble it and refrigerate it overnight. Just remember to increase your bake time by about 10-15 minutes if cooking straight from the fridge.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this delightful lasagna.

Ingredients

12 lasagna noodles
2 cups marinara sauce
1 medium zucchini, sliced
1 cup spinach, fresh
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling

Make sure everything is ready before you start assembling the lasagna.

Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble and bake your lasagna to perfection.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the noodles

In a pot of boiling salted water, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the cheese mixture

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Layer the lasagna

In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce at the bottom. Add a layer of noodles, then half of the ricotta mixture, followed by vegetables, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and more sauce. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of noodles topped with marinara and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Rest and serve

Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before cutting. Serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious homemade lasagna!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding fresh basil or oregano in between the layers. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables based on the season.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, individual pieces in the microwave work great, but for an oven method, cover the slices with foil to retain moisture and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. If you like, add a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese on top before you cover to get that melty finish.

You can also freeze baked lasagna for longer storage. To do this, slice it into portions and wrap tightly with plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to protect against freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, or bake from frozen, extending the cooking time to about an hour, covered, then uncover and bake for another 15-20 minutes.

Variations and Customizations

This lasagna is extremely adaptable based on your preferences or what’s on hand. If you want a bit of protein, consider adding layers of cooked ground turkey or Italian sausage between the vegetable layers. If you're in the mood for a spicy kick, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce, or layer in some pickled jalapeños. For a twist on the cheese, try swapping half of the mozzarella for a sharper cheese like provolone or fontina for added depth.

Another fun variation is to use different sauces—try a pesto or alfredo sauce for a white lasagna option. Just pour it alongside or in place of marinara in the layers. You can also experiment with using whole wheat or spinach lasagna noodles for added nutrition. This flexibility makes Sunday baked vegetable lasagna a versatile dish to customize every time you prepare it!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this lasagna in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute for the ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a vegan ricotta to make it dairy-free.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

→ What toppings can I add?

You can add fresh herbs, extra grated cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil on top before baking for added richness.