Lasagna in a Flash: Plant-Based & Packed with Flavor

Looking for a quick, nourishing, and family-approved meal? This assembly-style, plant-based lasagna is my ultimate crowd pleaser. I make it monthly, year-round—it’s simple, robust in flavor, and absolutely no-nonsense.

Fun fact: My record assembly time is just under 12 minutes!

What makes it special? No cheese, no problem. This lasagna bursts with flavor even without cheese. Traditional dairy is swapped for a robust tofu ricotta, and the umami-packed filling steals the show. You won’t miss the dairy—and neither will your guests.


🛒 Ingredients

For the filling:

  • 1 block firm or extra-firm tofu, drained and mushed
  • 1 box mushrooms (any variety), washed and pulverized by hand
  • 1/2 small onion, diced
  • 1 bag frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
  • Seasonings & condiments:
    • Balsamic reduction
    • Soy sauce
    • Truffle salt
    • Italian seasoning
    • Nutritional yeast (aka “nooch”)
    • Granulated garlic
    • Granulated onion
    • Paprika

For assembly:

  • Rao’s marinara sauce (or your favorite marinara)
  • No-bake lasagna noodles
  • 1/2 cup vegan shredded cheese (optional, for presentation)

Optional nutrient boost:

  • Lentil, bean-based, or whole-grain no-bake noodles

⏱ Prep & Cook Time

  • Assembly: 10–12 minutes
  • Bake: 45–55 minutes
  • Total: ~1 hour

🥣 Instructions

  1. Prepare the filling:
    Combine tofu, mushrooms, onions, and spinach in a large bowl. Add seasonings generously: balsamic reduction, soy sauce, a large pinch or two of truffle salt, Italian seasoning, 1/3 to 1/2 cup nutritional yeast, granulated garlic, granulated onion, and paprika. Mix thoroughly.
  2. Layer the lasagna:
    • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a Pyrex or baking dish.
    • Add a few sheets of no-bake noodles.
    • Spread a layer of the tofu ricotta filling over the noodles.
    • Add more sauce, then repeat layers until the lasagna is three layers thick.
  3. Top and bake:
    • Finish with a generous layer of sauce, ensuring it drips into the corners for full moisture.
    • Sprinkle with nutritional yeast, vegan shredded cheese, extra Italian seasoning, another pinch of truffle salt, and any leftover diced onions.
    • Cover with foil and bake 35–40 minutes.
    • Remove foil and bake 10–15 minutes more until bubbly and noodles are fully cooked.
  4. Serve & enjoy:
    Slice hot and serve on its own or with a simple green salad.

This plant-based lasagna is quick, robust, and utterly satisfying. It proves that plant-based comfort food can be just as indulgent as traditional lasagna—without any cheese!

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