Sunday Slow Roasted Vegetable Lasagna
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I love how this Sunday Slow Roasted Vegetable Lasagna captures the essence of Sunday family dinners. With layers of tender vegetables perfectly slow-roasted and combined with rich cheeses and homemade marinara sauce, each bite feels like a warm hug. This recipe is my go-to for cozy gatherings, and it allows me to pack in the good stuff while pleasing even the pickiest eaters. The slow roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, making this dish deeply satisfying and flavorful. Trust me, it will become a staple in your kitchen too!
My journey with this Sunday Slow Roasted Vegetable Lasagna started when I experimented with vegetable combinations for a family gathering. I found that roasting the vegetables not only enhances their flavors but also gives the dish a gourmet feel. Each layer of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms adds a delightful texture that complements the creamy cheese perfectly.
One key tip I’ve discovered is to let the lasagna rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set and ensures each slice holds its shape beautifully. It has become a beloved recipe in our home, and I’m excited for you to try it!
Reasons You'll Love This Lasagna
- Layers of flavorful, slow-roasted vegetables
- Rich and creamy cheese that ties everything together
- A comforting dish that's perfect for family gatherings
Perfecting the Roasted Vegetables
The key to making this lasagna truly special is in the slow roasting of the vegetables. By roasting at a high temperature of 425°F (220°C), you allow the natural sugars in the vegetables to caramelize, which enhances their flavor significantly. This not only improves the taste but also contributes to a delightful texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheeses in the dish.
Make sure to spread the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet. Crowding them can lead to steaming rather than roasting, which might prevent that lovely caramelization you're aiming for. You want to see golden edges and a slightly wilted appearance, indicating they're perfectly cooked and ready to be layered into the lasagna.
Layering Strategy for Maximum Flavor
When assembling the lasagna, take care to stagger your ingredients for the best results. By layering the noodles, roasted vegetables, and cheese in this order, each bite captures the full spectrum of flavors and textures. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle a bit of extra mozzarella or Parmesan between the layers for more cheesy goodness—it helps create a delightful crust on top.
To prevent the lasagna from becoming too watery, use a thick marinara sauce. If your sauce is too runny, consider simmering it on the stove for a few extra minutes to thicken it up. A thicker sauce ensures that the lasagna holds its shape when sliced and enhances the overall texture of the dish.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to make your lasagna delightful:
For the Roasted Vegetables
- 2 zucchini, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lasagna
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your lasagna:
Roast the Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the sliced zucchini, bell peppers, onion, and mushrooms in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well and set aside.
Assemble the Lasagna
In a large baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add three lasagna noodles followed by half of the roasted vegetables, half of the ricotta mixture, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles and remaining marinara sauce and mozzarella on top.
Bake the Lasagna
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, add a layer of fresh spinach or kale between the noodles. You can also make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before baking.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This lasagna can be made ahead of time, making it a fantastic dish for meal prep or entertaining. You can assemble the layers a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold to ensure everything is heated through properly.
If you have leftovers, you can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For longer storage, this lasagna freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing in the freezer. It can last for up to three months, and reheating is as simple as placing it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Serving Suggestions
Garnishing your lasagna with fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also a refreshing flavor that complements the richness of the cheeses and roasted vegetables. You might also try a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a touch of sweetness and acidity, which can elevate the dish even further.
For a complete meal, serve this lasagna with a light side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a simple garlic bread. The refreshing elements help balance the richness of the lasagna, making it a perfect centerpiece for a cozy family gathering.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match with your favorite vegetables like spinach, eggplant, or carrots.
→ Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate it. Just add a little extra cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
→ Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Certainly! Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure your marinara sauce is also gluten-free.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the best texture.
Sunday Slow Roasted Vegetable Lasagna
I love how this Sunday Slow Roasted Vegetable Lasagna captures the essence of Sunday family dinners. With layers of tender vegetables perfectly slow-roasted and combined with rich cheeses and homemade marinara sauce, each bite feels like a warm hug. This recipe is my go-to for cozy gatherings, and it allows me to pack in the good stuff while pleasing even the pickiest eaters. The slow roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, making this dish deeply satisfying and flavorful. Trust me, it will become a staple in your kitchen too!
Created by: Camilla Rhodes
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Roasted Vegetables
- 2 zucchini, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lasagna
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the sliced zucchini, bell peppers, onion, and mushrooms in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well and set aside.
In a large baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add three lasagna noodles followed by half of the roasted vegetables, half of the ricotta mixture, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles and remaining marinara sauce and mozzarella on top.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, add a layer of fresh spinach or kale between the noodles. You can also make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight before baking.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 20g