Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s as comforting as it is colorful? Dive into the world of Italian cuisine with our delectable Mushroom and Yellow Pepper Lasagna! This vibrant twist on a classic favorite combines the earthy flavors of sautéed mushrooms and sweet yellow bell peppers, layered between sheets of tender pasta and creamy cheeses. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe promises to impress even the pickiest of eaters. Get ready to savor every bite and make your kitchen the heart of the home!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your lasagna cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the noodles are cooking, prepare the vegetable filling. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once heated, add the sliced mushrooms and diced yellow bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the mushrooms have released their moisture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Once the noodles are cooked, drain them and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to dry.
- In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. This will also add flavor to the bottom layer of the lasagna.
- Begin layering the lasagna: Place three lasagna noodles over the marinara sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the sautéed mushrooms and yellow peppers. Sprinkle a third of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the vegetables, then add another layer of marinara sauce.
- Repeat the layering process: Add three more lasagna noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, the rest of the sautéed vegetables, another third of the mozzarella cheese, and more marinara sauce.
- Top the final layer with the last three noodles, the remaining marinara sauce, the rest of the mozzarella cheese, and the remaining grated Parmesan cheese. Make sure the top is well covered with cheese for a nice golden crust.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, making sure it does not touch the cheese. This will help retain moisture while the lasagna cooks.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
- Cut into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Mushroom and Yellow Pepper Lasagna with a side salad or garlic bread!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the vegetable filling and cheese mixtures a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the lasagna.
- Don't Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the lasagna to sit for 10-15 minutes after baking helps the layers set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to customize the vegetable filling! Spinach, zucchini, or even roasted red peppers can be fantastic additions to this lasagna.
- Cheese Lovers Unite: For an extra cheesy experience, consider adding more mozzarella or a sprinkle of your favorite cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a gooey finish.
- Serve with Style: Pair your lasagna with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
