This butter bean lasagna is a comforting, hearty twist on the classic Italian dish. Instead of traditional meat, we’re using creamy butter beans, which add a rich texture and protein-packed goodness. The layers of pasta, velvety tomato sauce, and melty cheese come together for a satisfying, nutritious meal. Perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking for a fresh spin on lasagna!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty & Wholesome – Butter beans make this lasagna incredibly filling while keeping it meat-free.
- Rich & Flavorful – The combination of garlic, herbs, and a creamy cheese blend makes every bite irresistible. If you love creamy, comforting pasta dishes, check out our Rasta Pasta Recipe with Coconut Milk for another delicious twist on a classic.
- Great for Meal Prep – This lasagna stores and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.
- Easily Customizable – Add your favorite veggies, switch up the cheese, or use gluten-free pasta if needed!
Ingredients
Gather these simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a mouthwatering butter bean lasagna:
- Butter Beans – The star of the dish, adding creaminess and protein.
- Lasagna Sheets – Use regular or whole wheat for a nutritious touch.
- Crushed Tomatoes – A rich, tangy base for the sauce.
- Garlic & Onion – Classic aromatics that build deep flavor.
- Carrots & Spinach – Extra veggies for color, sweetness, and nutrients.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing and bringing out the flavors.
- Italian Herbs – A mix of basil, oregano, and thyme for an authentic taste.
- Ricotta Cheese – Adds a creamy, luscious layer.
- Mozzarella & Parmesan – Melty, golden cheese for that perfect top layer.
- Salt & Pepper – Enhances all the delicious flavors.
The exact measurements for these ingredients will be in the recipe card below!
How to Make Butter Bean Lasagna
Step 1: Make the Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion, garlic, and carrots until soft.
- Add crushed tomatoes, butter beans, and Italian herbs. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in spinach until wilted, then season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a handful of parmesan.
Step 3: Layer the Lasagna
- Spread a thin layer of sauce in a baking dish.
- Add a layer of lasagna sheets, followed by more sauce and ricotta mixture.
- Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and mozzarella on top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Rest & Serve
- Let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making Butter Bean Lasagna
- Pre-cook the lasagna sheets if they aren’t oven-ready for a softer texture.
- Mash some of the butter beans for a thicker, creamier sauce.
- Let it rest before slicing – this helps the layers hold together.
- Add a hint of spice with red pepper flakes for a kick!
How to Serve
- With a Side Salad – A fresh arugula or Caesar salad balances the richness.
- Garlic Bread – Because what’s lasagna without some crusty, garlicky goodness?
- Drizzle of Olive Oil – A touch of high-quality olive oil enhances the flavor.
If you love creamy and comforting pasta dishes, try this recipe for Chicken Tetrazzini: Creamy, Cheesy, and Easy for another delicious alternative.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
- Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing
- Assemble the lasagna but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To bake from frozen, add 15-20 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
- Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best results, or microwave in 1-minute bursts.
FAQs
Can I use canned butter beans?
Yes! Canned butter beans work great; just drain and rinse them before adding to the sauce.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free lasagna sheets, and double-check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I add more veggies?
Of course! Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers would be delicious in the sauce.
What can I use instead of ricotta?
You can swap it for cottage cheese or a dairy-free alternative like blended tofu with lemon juice.
This Butter Bean Lasagna is comfort food at its finest—creamy, cheesy, and packed with goodness. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy!
Butter Bean Lasagna
Equipment
- Baking Dish
- Saucepan
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Lasagna Ingredients
- 12 sheets lasagna sheets regular or whole wheat
- 2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup carrots grated
- 1 can crushed tomatoes 14 oz
- 1 can butter beans drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp Italian herbs basil, oregano, thyme
- 2 cups spinach fresh, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese grated
- salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onion, garlic, and carrots until soft.
- Add crushed tomatoes, butter beans, and Italian herbs. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in spinach until wilted, then season with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt, pepper, and parmesan.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce in a baking dish.
- Add a layer of lasagna sheets, followed by more sauce and ricotta mixture. Repeat layers and finish with sauce and mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!