Creamy White Lasagna Recipe Easy Comfort Food Delight

Name: Creamy White Lasagna Recipe Easy Comfort Food Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Lasagna noodles (fresh, oven-ready, or dried); 4 tablespoons (60g) butter; 4 tablespoons (30g) flour; 4 cups (1 liter) milk (whole milk preferred, or 2% for a lighter version); Pinch of nutmeg; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups (500g) ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese as a substitute); 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella (low-moisture preferred); 1 cup (100g) grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated preferred); 2 cups (300g) cooked chicken or turkey (e.g., rotisserie chicken); 2 cups (60g) spinach (fresh or frozen, or substitute with kale or Swiss chard); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil

Posted on July 27, 2025

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There’s just something magical about a warm dish of lasagna bubbling away in the oven, isn’t there? This creamy white lasagna recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of velvety béchamel sauce, tender pasta sheets, and rich cheeses—all without a single drop of tomato sauce. If you’re looking for a dish that’s indulgent, satisfying, and just a tad different from the usual lasagna, you’re in for a treat. Trust me, it’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

What makes this recipe truly special is its creamy texture and mild, yet deeply savory flavor. Inspired by classic Italian recipes, this version swaps out the traditional marinara for a white sauce that’s smooth, buttery, and oh-so-decadent. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Let’s dive in!

The Story Behind Creamy White Lasagna

The origins of lasagna date back centuries, with Italy being the proud birthplace of this layered pasta dish. Traditional lasagna often features a hearty tomato-based meat sauce, but white lasagna (or lasagne bianche) is a lesser-known variation that’s just as delicious. The creamy white sauce used in this recipe, known as béchamel, is a French technique that has been adopted into Italian cuisine.

My personal connection to this recipe goes back to a cozy evening spent in a tiny Italian trattoria during a trip to Florence. While everyone was ordering classic dishes like spaghetti carbonara, I decided to try the white lasagna—and I was hooked. The lack of acidity from the tomato sauce allowed the cheeses and creamy béchamel to truly shine, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Ever since, this dish has been a favorite in my kitchen.

It’s also a wonderful choice for winter months when we crave richer, heartier meals. Pair it with a crisp salad or a glass of white wine, and you’ve got yourself a dinner to remember.

Ingredients for Creamy White Lasagna

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, but choosing the right ingredients is key to achieving the perfect flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Lasagna noodles: Opt for fresh or oven-ready noodles for convenience, but classic dried noodles work perfectly too. If you prefer gluten-free options, there are great alternatives available.
Béchamel sauce: Made with butter, flour, and milk, this creamy sauce is the backbone of the recipe. Whole milk is ideal, but you can use 2% for a lighter version.
Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and a subtle tang. Cottage cheese can be substituted for a similar texture.
Shredded mozzarella: Look for low-moisture mozzarella for a gooey, melty layer.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds nuttiness and depth. Avoid pre-shredded varieties if possible.
Cooked chicken or turkey: A great way to use up leftovers! Rotisserie chicken works beautifully here.
Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients. Kale or Swiss chard can be used as substitutes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the béchamel sauce a fragrant boost. Avoid garlic powder for this recipe.
Nutmeg: Just a pinch enhances the béchamel sauce’s flavor and gives it a warm undertone.

For specialty items like fresh lasagna noodles or high-quality Parmesan, check your local Italian market or specialty grocery store. Trust me, it’s worth the effort!

Equipment Needed

Don’t worry—this recipe doesn’t require a ton of fancy gadgets! Here’s a list of the essentials:

Large pot: For boiling the lasagna noodles.
Skillet: To sauté the garlic and spinach.
Medium saucepan: For preparing the béchamel sauce.
Mixing bowls: To combine the cheeses and fillings.
9×13-inch baking dish: Glass or ceramic works best for even heat distribution.
Whisk: Essential for making smooth béchamel sauce.
Knife and cutting board: For chopping spinach or slicing cooked chicken.

If you don’t have a baking dish, you can use a deep skillet or even disposable aluminum pans for easy cleanup. Just be sure to grease the pan well!

How to Prepare Creamy White Lasagna

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Cook the lasagna noodles: Boil the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and lay them flat on a clean towel to prevent sticking.
Make the béchamel sauce: Melt 4 tablespoons (60g) of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 4 tablespoons (30g) of flour until smooth. Gradually add 4 cups (1 liter) of milk, whisking continuously. Cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups (500g) of ricotta, 2 cups (200g) of shredded mozzarella, 1 cup (100g) of grated Parmesan, and 2 cups (300g) of cooked chicken. Stir until evenly mixed.
Sauté the spinach: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon (15ml) of olive oil and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until fragrant, then add 2 cups (60g) of spinach. Cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Layer the lasagna: Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Add a layer of noodles, followed by a layer of filling, sautéed spinach, and more béchamel sauce. Repeat the layering process until all ingredients are used, finishing with béchamel and a sprinkle of mozzarella on top.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Rest: Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.

As you assemble the layers, don’t worry if they’re not perfect—this dish is all about rustic charm!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

To make your white lasagna recipe foolproof, here are a few tips:

Avoid clumpy béchamel: Whisk constantly while preparing the sauce to keep it smooth.
Pre-cook the spinach: This prevents excess moisture from making your lasagna watery.
Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting.
Rest before serving: Letting the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes allows the layers to firm up.
Freeze leftovers: This lasagna freezes beautifully for up to three months.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile! Here are some ideas:

Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and add mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty filling.
Seafood twist: Swap the chicken for cooked shrimp or crab meat.
Low-carb option: Replace lasagna noodles with zucchini or eggplant slices.
Dairy-free adaptation: Use almond milk béchamel and dairy-free cheeses.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the béchamel sauce.

Feel free to get creative and make the recipe your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

White lasagna is best served warm, with the cheese bubbly and golden. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Serving temperature: Serve hot, straight from the oven.
Pairings: Complement with a fresh green salad and crusty garlic bread.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

While this dish is undeniably indulgent, here’s a quick look at the nutritional profile:

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving (based on 8 servings).
Protein: Packed with protein from chicken, ricotta, and mozzarella.
Calcium: A rich source of calcium thanks to the cheeses.
Iron: Spinach provides a boost of iron and other vitamins.

If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can lighten the recipe by using low-fat dairy products and skipping the Parmesan.

Conclusion

There’s no denying it—this creamy white lasagna recipe is pure comfort food bliss. It’s rich, satisfying, and a lovely twist on the classic lasagna we all know and love. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because you’re craving something indulgent, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Give it a try, and don’t hesitate to make it your own with variations and substitutions. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Share your thoughts in the comments, or tag me on social media with your creations. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I make white lasagna ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the lasagna, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze white lasagna?

Yes! Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What’s the best way to reheat lasagna?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and substitute gluten-free flour for the béchamel sauce.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese or mascarpone are excellent alternatives for a creamy texture.