Go Back
–+ servings
Lasagna al Pesto

Creamy Lasagna al Pesto: A Cozy Vegetarian Delight

Delight in this Creamy Lasagna al Pesto, a comforting vegetarian dish featuring layers of creamy cheeses and vibrant basil pesto.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pesto Layer
  • 1 cup Basil Pesto Homemade is best for freshness.
  • 12 oz Lasagna Noodles Choose from fresh, dried, or no-boil varieties.
For the Cheese Mixture
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Balances richness and creaminess.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Opt for freshly shredded for best melt.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Introduces a sharp, nutty flavor.
  • 1 Egg Acts as a binder for the filling.
  • 1 tsp Dried Basil Imparts an aromatic touch.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Adds depth to the flavor.
For the Béchamel Sauce
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Avoid low-fat for best results.
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Thickens the béchamel.
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter Enhances sauce's richness.
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper
For Garnishing
  • 1 cup Extra Mozzarella For bubbly, golden finish.

Equipment

  • 9x9-inch baking dish
  • large pot
  • medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • mixing bowl
  • colander

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Cook lasagna noodles in salted boiling water until al dente for about 8-10 minutes. Drain and toss with olive oil.
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Gradually add milk while stirring until thickened. Season and fold in basil pesto.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, egg, dried basil, and garlic powder until smooth.
  4. Grease baking dish. Layer béchamel, noodles, cheese mixture, mozzarella, and pesto. Repeat layers ending with noodles and béchamel.
  5. Bake at 375°F (190°C) covered for 50 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden.
  6. Let the lasagna rest for 15 minutes before slicing to set the layers.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Customize with sautéed vegetables or proteins if desired. Freshly shredded cheese is a game-changer for flavor and texture.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!