Dive into a comforting bowl of this creamy vegan lasagna with white sauce. This recipe proves that plant-based eating can be just as decadent and flavorful as traditional lasagna. We’ll guide you through creating a luscious white sauce, layering it with perfectly cooked noodles, and a hearty filling that will have everyone asking for seconds.
What Makes This Vegan Lasagna White Sauce So Special?
This isn’t your average vegan lasagna recipe. We’ve taken extra care to create a white sauce that is both rich and flavorful, using simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. This recipe is also incredibly versatile; feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out the lasagna noodles for gluten-free alternatives.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the vegan white sauce:
- 1/4 cup vegan butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
For the filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1 (14-ounce) container firm tofu, drained and crumbled
- 9 lasagna noodles (regular or gluten-free)
- 1 cup vegan mozzarella cheese
Vegan Lasagna Ingredients
Let’s Get Cooking:
Making the Vegan White Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt vegan butter over medium heat.
- Gradually whisk in flour until smooth.
- Slowly pour in almond milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in nutritional yeast.
Pro Tip: For an extra smooth white sauce, use an immersion blender to blend until completely smooth.
Preparing the Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in spinach and crumbled tofu; cook until heated through.
Cooking Vegan Lasagna Filling
Assembling and Baking Your Lasagna Masterpiece:
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Spread a thin layer of the white sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top with 3 lasagna noodles.
- Spread with half of the filling.
- Layer with 3 more lasagna noodles.
- Spread with remaining white sauce.
- Top with remaining 3 lasagna noodles.
- Spread with remaining filling.
- Sprinkle with vegan mozzarella cheese.
Baking and Serving:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Chef’s Tip from Sarah Thompson: “Allowing the lasagna to rest before cutting is crucial. This allows the layers to set and prevents it from falling apart when you slice it. Patience is key for picture-perfect servings!”
Vegan Lasagna White Sauce: FAQ
Can I freeze this vegan lasagna?
Absolutely! This lasagna freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until heated through.
What can I substitute for tofu?
You can substitute the tofu with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a combination of your favorite vegetables for a different texture and flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Simply swap out the regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free lasagna noodles for a delicious and gluten-free version.
What can I serve with vegan lasagna?
This lasagna pairs perfectly with a light and refreshing salad like vegan greek food recipes or a side of garlicky roasted vegetables. For a sweeter pairing, try our vegan monkey bread recipe.
Baked Vegan Lasagna
This creamy vegan lasagna with white sauce is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just starting to explore plant-based cooking, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
If you’re looking for more delicious vegan recipes, check out our vegan oatmeal cookie recipes and explore the amazing world of bread maker vegan recipes. You can also find the perfect vegan fall starbucks drinks on our blog! Enjoy the journey of creating flavorful and satisfying vegan meals!
