Introduction
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, it’s the perfect time to bring a touch of warmth to your dinner table with this delightful Thanksgiving Cottage Cheese Lasagna Bake featuring mushrooms and spinach. This vegetarian dish is not only comforting but also packed with nutrition—offering a wonderful alternative to traditional lasagna. It’s layered with tender zucchini, a creamy cottage cheese and Greek yogurt filling, and fragrant sautéed mushrooms and spinach, all topped with a golden crust of melted mozzarella and Parmesan. Your family will be asking for seconds, and you’ll love how simple it is to prepare!
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced lengthwise
- 16 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1½ cups low fat cottage cheese (2%)
- ½ cup nonfat Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded part skim mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish to ensure easy cleanup.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they’re beautifully browned and fragrant. Fold in the chopped spinach and minced garlic, allowing them to wilt and combine. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, stir together the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy. This will serve as the luxurious white sauce that ties everything together.
- Now it’s time to build your layers! Start with a layer of the zucchini slices at the bottom of your baking dish. Follow this with a thin layer of the creamy sauce, then add the sautéed mushroom and spinach mixture. Sprinkle generously with a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat this layering process 3 to 4 times, ensuring you finish with the remaining sauce and a final flourish of shredded cheeses on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the dish is bubbly and the cheese is a glorious golden brown. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing; this helps the layers set and makes serving a breeze.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out cheeses based on what you have on hand. For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some fresh herbs like basil or oregano. If you prefer a gluten-free option, simply omit any layers that don’t suit your diet!
Cooking Techniques
This lasagna bake makes use of layering, a technique that helps to meld flavors and create a delightful texture. Sautéing the mushrooms and spinach not only enhances their flavors but also reduces moisture, keeping your dish from becoming soggy. Prepping your ingredients in advance helps streamline the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna bake a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking chilled.
Can I freeze this Cottage Cheese Lasagna Bake?
Yes, you can freeze this recipe! Just make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Conclusion
This Thanksgiving Cottage Cheese Lasagna Bake is sure to be a hit at your table, combining comfort, flavor, and nutrition in one delightful dish. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, it brings the essence of the season right to your plate. Enjoy this warm, hearty meal and embrace the joy of cooking for those you love!