Introduction
Looking for a delightful twist on a classic dish this Thanksgiving? This Cottage Cheese Lasagna Bake with mushrooms and spinach is here to steal the show! With layers of tender zucchini, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach all enveloped in a creamy sauce, this recipe is a wonderful ode to comfort food. Not only does it bring vibrant colors to your table, but it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a guilt-free indulgence that everyone will appreciate.
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: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly oil a 9×9 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are beautifully browned, releasing their rich, savory aroma. Stir in the chopped spinach and minced garlic, cooking just until the spinach wilts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the low-fat cottage cheese and Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy, creating a luscious white sauce that will tie the dish together.
- Now it’s time to assemble! Start by layering the baking dish with thin slices of zucchini, followed by a thin layer of the creamy cottage cheese sauce, then add the sautéed mushroom and spinach mix. Sprinkle a bit of mozzarella and Parmesan over the top. Repeat this layering process 3–4 times, ensuring to finish with your remaining sauce and a generous topping of cheese.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the lasagna is bubbly and golden brown on top. Once done, let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to ensure clean, appetizing portions.
Notes or Tips
This dish can be prepared ahead of time. Just assemble the layers, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. It also makes for great leftovers, so feel free to double the recipe if you’re feeding a crowd!
Cooking Techniques
To get the best texture from your zucchini, be sure to slice them thinly. This way, they cook evenly and meld beautifully with the other layers. If you prefer a slightly firmer texture for your zucchini, you can also lightly grill or sauté them beforehand to remove excess moisture.
FAQ
Can I make this dish gluten-free? Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any pasta.
Can I substitute other vegetables? Yes! Feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices. Bell peppers, eggplant, or even broccoli would work wonderfully.
How can I make this dish spicier? If you crave a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sautéed mushrooms or mixing in some spicy cheese!
Conclusion
This Thanksgiving Cottage Cheese Lasagna Bake is a delicious way to celebrate the season with wholesome ingredients and comforting layers. It’s the perfect centerpiece for your holiday meal or a cozy weeknight dinner. Your friends and family will savor every bite, and you’ll love how easy it is to prepare. Enjoy this delightful dish that brings warmth, flavor, and love to your table!