Name: Vegan Pumpkin Lasagna with Spinach Ricotta Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 5 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 9 lasagna noodles (about 8 ounces or half of a one pound box); Dash olive oil; 1 ½ cups raw cashews, soaked in water 4 to 8 hours, drained and rinsed; ½ cup unflavored and unsweetened non-dairy milk; 1 garlic clove; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 7 ounces firm tofu, drained and broken into 4 to 5 chunks; 10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed to remove excess water; Black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons vegan butter; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 (14 ounce or 400 ml) can full-fat coconut milk; 1 (15 ounce or 425 g) can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling); 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; Finely chopped fresh sage, for serving (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 9 reviews

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, creamy, and vibrant dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly night, the Vegan Pumpkin Lasagna with Spinach Ricotta Recipe is your new best friend. This lasagna layers tender noodles with a luscious, dairy-free spinach ricotta and a luxuriously smooth pumpkin cream sauce, marrying seasonal flavors with Italian classics in the most delightful way. Whether you’re cooking for guests or craving a special dinner that’s both nutritious and indulgent, this recipe has everything you need to impress and satisfy, all while staying plant-based.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image of a black cast iron pan with small pieces of light yellow and translucent onions being lightly cooked and stirred by a wooden spoon inside the pan, showing the texture of soft, slightly shiny onion pieces arranged mostly around the edges while the center is mostly clear, all placed on a white marbled surface with a beige cloth in the background, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this recipe is carefully chosen to bring out the creamy texture, rich flavors, and beautiful colors that make this vegan pumpkin lasagna truly special. From velvety cashews to aromatic spices, here’s what you’ll be using to build this delicious masterpiece.

Lasagna noodles (9 noodles): Perfectly al dente noodles serve as the hearty base that holds every flavorful layer together.
Olive oil (dash): Prevents the noodles from sticking and adds a subtle fruity richness.
Raw cashews (1 ½ cups, soaked): Soaked cashews create the creamy foundation of the vegan ricotta, lending a mild, buttery taste.
Non-dairy milk (½ cup): Keeps the ricotta smooth while keeping this dish fully vegan-friendly.
Garlic clove (1): Adds a gentle punch of flavor that wakes up the ricotta filling.
Lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brightens the spinach ricotta with a fresh, tangy zing.
Salt (1 teaspoon plus extra): Essential for balancing flavors throughout the dish.
Firm tofu (7 ounces): Adds body and a subtle savory note to the ricotta for added richness.
Frozen spinach (10 ounces, thawed): Packed with nutrients and color, spinach brings a fresh earthiness to the filling.
Black pepper (to taste): Adds warmth and complexity in every bite.
Vegan butter (2 tablespoons): Used to sauté onions and enrich the pumpkin sauce.
Medium onion (1, diced): Creates a sweet and aromatic base for the sauce.
Full-fat coconut milk (1 can, 14 oz): Adds creaminess and depth to the pumpkin sauce with subtle tropical undertones.
Pumpkin puree (1 can, 15 oz): The star ingredient providing that signature autumnal sweetness and vibrant color.
Ground nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Infuses the sauce with a warm, spicy hint that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
Fresh sage (finely chopped, optional): A fragrant herb that makes an elegant garnish, enhancing the flavors even further.

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Lasagna with Spinach Ricotta Recipe

Step 1: Cook and Prepare the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, and cook the lasagna noodles until they are just tender but still have a little bite. This is important for holding their shape in the layers. Once cooked, drain them and carefully rub each noodle with a little olive oil to keep them from sticking together. Lay them flat on a baking sheet, giving you easy access for assembling.

Step 2: Whip Up the Vegan Spinach Ricotta

While those noodles are cooking, it’s time to make that dreamy spinach ricotta. Combine soaked cashews, non-dairy milk, garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a food processor and blend until the texture is smooth but slightly creamy, not completely pureed. Then, add tofu and spinach, pulsing the mixture just enough so the ricotta stays delightfully chunky, mimicking traditional ricotta’s texture. Adjust salt and pepper to taste – this filling is the heart of the lasagna!

Step 3: Prepare the Pumpkin Cream Sauce

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the vegan butter and gently sauté diced onions until they turn soft and golden, releasing a natural sweetness that perfectly complements the pumpkin. Stir in coconut milk, pumpkin puree, salt, and nutmeg. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce to a simmer allowing those flavors to meld for about five minutes. This sauce will be rich, velvety, and packed with cozy fall vibes.

Step 4: Assemble Your Lasagna

Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, spoon a generous third of the sauce to coat the bottom, ensuring the noodles won’t stick. Layer three noodles on top, spread half the spinach ricotta evenly, then another three noodles, followed by another third of the sauce, the remaining ricotta, the last three noodles, and finish with the final third of pumpkin sauce. This layering technique builds a beautiful balance of texture and flavors with every bite.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover your assembled lasagna with foil and bake for 30 minutes, allowing all those flavors to meld and the noodles to soften fully. Remove the foil and continue baking uncovered for another 10 minutes, so the sauce bubbles and caramelizes slightly around the edges. Once out of the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes – this helps everything set and makes it easier to cut into perfect squares.

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Lasagna with Spinach Ricotta Recipe

Two square pieces of layered lasagna sit on white plates on a white marbled surface. Each piece has a top golden-orange layer that is smooth with slight ruffles at the edges, above a creamy white layer, and a darker green layer underneath that looks like spinach or herbs. A fresh green leaf garnish rests on each piece. There are two silver forks beside the plates. Near the plates, there is a beige textured cloth and a white baking dish with more of the same lasagna topped with a golden-orange layer. Some green leaves are scattered around the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your plating, sprinkle finely chopped fresh sage over each portion just before serving. The herbal brightness pairs perfectly with the richness of the pumpkin and spinach ricotta, adding an elegant and aromatic finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This lasagna is wonderfully hearty on its own, but serving it alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables can balance out the creaminess and add textural contrast. A warm crusty bread is also an excellent companion to soak up any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving this dish in individual ramekins or smaller casserole dishes for a charming presentation. Adding a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds can bring some delightful texture and a pop of nuttiness that surprises your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Vegan Pumpkin Lasagna with Spinach Ricotta Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days when covered tightly. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain moisture and freshness so you can enjoy those comforting flavors all week long.

Freezing

Lasagna is a classic freezer-friendly meal, and this version is no exception. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will maintain its flavor and texture for up to two months, making it a lifesaver for busy days when you want a homemade meal without the effort.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered with foil in a 350°F oven until warmed through, approximately 20 minutes, to preserve moisture and prevent drying out. For single servings, a microwave works fine—cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate to keep it from drying and heat in short increments, stirring if needed.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh spinach can be used, but you’ll want to sauté it first and then squeeze out the excess moisture before adding it to the ricotta mixture. This helps maintain the right texture and prevents your filling from becoming too watery.

Is soaking cashews necessary for the ricotta?

Yes, soaking cashews softens them, making it easier to blend into a creamy, smooth ricotta. If you’re short on time, you can soak them in very hot water for about an hour as a faster alternative to overnight soaking.

Can I add vegan mozzarella cheese to this recipe?

Definitely! Adding 2 to 3 cups of shredded vegan mozzarella-style cheese between layers will provide extra gooeyness and melty texture similar to traditional lasagna. Feel free to sprinkle a little on each noodle layer for a cheesy boost.

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?

Use plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to keep the flavors savory and control the seasoning. Pumpking pie filling is sweetened and spiced, which can overpower this dish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply swap traditional lasagna noodles for gluten-free versions available at most grocery stores. Just ensure you adjust cook times accordingly and soak noodles in olive oil to prevent sticking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting and satisfying about a well-made lasagna, and this Vegan Pumpkin Lasagna with Spinach Ricotta Recipe hits all the right notes for flavor, texture, and heartwarming goodness. Whether you’re a full-time vegan or simply looking to cozy up over a wholesome meal, this recipe is a winner that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and watch how this vibrant, creamy lasagna brings smiles to the table every time.