1. Prepare the Noodles:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are just al dente. Rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside on a clean towel to dry.
2. Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped spinach to the skillet with the sausage, and cook until the spinach has wilted. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Cheese Filling:
- In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup of mozzarella, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan. Stir until well combined. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Lay down a single layer of lasagna noodles to cover the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the sausage and spinach mixture.
- Sprinkle a third of the remaining mozzarella over the sausage and spinach, then cover with a layer of marinara sauce.
- Repeat the layers: noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, the remaining sausage and spinach, another third of the mozzarella, and more marinara sauce.
- Top with a final layer of noodles, the remaining marinara sauce, the rest of the mozzarella, and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let the lasagna sit for 10 minutes before slicing. This rest period helps the lasagna to set, making it easier to cut and serve.
Serve this Spinach and Sausage Lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a simple salad for a complete, satisfying meal. The combination of creamy cheese, savory sausage, and fresh spinach, all layered between tender sheets of pasta, makes for a deliciously rich and comforting dish that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Enjoy!