Sweet Potato, Spinach & Ricotta Lasagna with Candied Walnuts

Servings

8 servings

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cook Time

50 minutes

Total Time

1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients

For the Lasagna

• 9 lasagna noodles

• 3 cups ricotta cheese

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

• 4 cups fresh spinach

• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• 2 eggs

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

For the Candied Walnut Topping

• 1 cup walnuts, chopped

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 3 tablespoons maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine ricotta, eggs, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

2. Stir until smooth.

3. Fold in half of the Parmesan cheese.

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

1. Slice sweet potatoes into very thin rounds.

2. Steam or blanch for 4–5 minutes until slightly tender.

3. Drain and cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Spinach

1. Sauté spinach in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes.

2. Remove excess moisture.

3. Roughly chop.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Spread a thin layer of ricotta mixture on the bottom.

4. Add a layer of lasagna noodles.

5. Add sweet potatoes, spinach, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella.

6. Repeat layers until ingredients are used.

7. Finish with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake

1. Cover with foil.

2. Bake for 35 minutes.

3. Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until golden brown.

4. Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Step 6: Make the Candied Walnuts

1. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add walnuts, maple syrup, and brown sugar.

3. Stir continuously for 3–4 minutes until glossy and caramelized.

4. Cool slightly.

Step 7: Serve

1. Cut lasagna into squares.

2. Top each serving with candied walnuts.

3. Sprinkle with parsley and extra Parmesan.

4. Drizzle lightly with additional maple syrup if desired.

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 520 kcal

• Protein: 24 g

• Fat: 28 g

• Carbohydrates: 45 g

• Fiber: 5 g

Chef's Tips

• Slice sweet potatoes as thinly as possible for even layering.

• Whole milk ricotta provides the creamiest texture.

• Let the lasagna rest before cutting to keep layers intact.

• Pecans can be substituted for walnuts.

• For extra richness, add a layer of béchamel sauce between layers.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Sweet Potato, Spinach & Ricotta Lasagna is a comforting vegetarian dish that combines creamy ricotta, tender sweet potatoes, and savory spinach in beautifully layered pasta. The caramelized walnut topping adds crunch and a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the rich, cheesy filling, creating an elegant dish suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.