Ricotta Apple Lasagna: A Sweet and Savory Delight

This Ricotta Apple Lasagna is a unique and delicious twist on the classic Italian dish. It combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the sweet and tart flavors of apples, layered between tender lasagna noodles and baked to golden perfection. It’s a perfect dish for a special occasion, a cozy weeknight dinner, or even a brunch gathering. The balance of sweet and savory makes it a crowd-pleaser, and the ricotta adds a luxurious texture that sets it apart from traditional lasagnas.

**Why You’ll Love This Recipe:**

* **Unique Flavor Profile:** The combination of ricotta and apples creates a surprisingly delightful flavor that is both comforting and exciting.
* **Easy to Make:** While it looks impressive, this lasagna is relatively simple to assemble.
* **Versatile:** You can customize this recipe with different types of apples, cheeses, and spices to suit your taste.
* **Perfect for Any Occasion:** Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday gathering, this lasagna is sure to impress.
* **Vegetarian-Friendly:** This recipe is entirely vegetarian, making it a great option for those who don’t eat meat.

**Ingredients You’ll Need:**

* **Lasagna Noodles:** 12-15 oven-ready lasagna noodles (or regular noodles, cooked al dente)
* **Ricotta Cheese:** 32 ounces (2 lbs) full-fat ricotta cheese
* **Apples:** 4-5 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced. A mix of sweet and tart apples is recommended.
* **Eggs:** 2 large eggs
* **Granulated Sugar:** 1/2 cup, plus 2 tablespoons for sprinkling
* **Cinnamon:** 1 teaspoon, plus a pinch for sprinkling
* **Nutmeg:** 1/2 teaspoon
* **Vanilla Extract:** 1 teaspoon
* **Lemon Juice:** 1 tablespoon (to prevent apple browning)
* **Butter:** 2 tablespoons, melted
* **Optional Toppings:** Chopped walnuts or pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup

**Equipment You’ll Need:**

* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Large mixing bowl
* Small mixing bowl
* Vegetable peeler
* Apple corer (optional)
* Knife
* Cutting board
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Spatula or large spoon

**Step-by-Step Instructions:**

**1. Prepare the Apples:**

* Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. The thinner the slices, the better they will cook and integrate into the lasagna.
* Place the sliced apples in a large bowl and toss them with the lemon juice. This will help prevent them from browning.
* In a small bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, cinnamon (1 teaspoon), and nutmeg. Sprinkle this mixture over the apples and toss to coat them evenly.

**2. Make the Ricotta Filling:**

* In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
* Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and the filling is smooth and creamy. Avoid overmixing, which can make the ricotta watery.

**3. Assemble the Lasagna:**

* Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the 9×13 inch baking dish.
* Spread a thin layer of the ricotta mixture evenly over the bottom of the baking dish. This will prevent the noodles from sticking.
* Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles over the ricotta mixture. If using regular lasagna noodles, make sure they are cooked al dente according to package directions and slightly overlapped.
* Top the noodles with about one-third of the apple slices, spreading them evenly over the noodles. Don’t overcrowd the layer.
* Spoon another layer of the ricotta mixture over the apples, ensuring they are well covered.
* Repeat layers: noodles, apples, ricotta mixture. You should have three layers of noodles and apples, finishing with a final layer of ricotta mixture on top.
* Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top layer of ricotta.
* Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over the top for added flavor and visual appeal.

**4. Bake the Lasagna:**

* Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the top from browning too quickly and ensure the lasagna cooks evenly.
* Bake for 30 minutes with the foil on.
* Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the apples are tender. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil again.

**5. Let it Rest:**

* Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before cutting and serving. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to slice.

**6. Serve and Enjoy:**

* Cut the lasagna into squares and serve warm. You can optionally drizzle with maple syrup or sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans for added flavor and texture.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Apple Varieties:** Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor. Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, and Granny Smith are all excellent choices. You can also experiment with other varieties like Pink Lady or Braeburn.
* **Cheese Variations:** While ricotta is the star of this dish, you can add other cheeses for extra flavor. A layer of mascarpone or cream cheese would add extra richness, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top would provide a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the apples.
* **Spice It Up:** Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the apple mixture for a warmer, more complex flavor.
* **Noodle Options:** While oven-ready lasagna noodles are convenient, you can use regular lasagna noodles that have been cooked al dente. Just be sure to drain them well before assembling the lasagna.
* **Nutty Crunch:** To add some crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the top of the lasagna before baking. You can also toast the nuts beforehand for a more intense flavor.
* **Sweetener Options:** You can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a richer, more caramel-like flavor. Maple syrup is also a great alternative for drizzling over the finished lasagna.
* **Make Ahead:** This lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
* **Add Dried Fruit:** Mix in some raisins or dried cranberries with the apple mixture for added texture and flavor.
* **Caramel Sauce:** Drizzle with homemade or store-bought caramel sauce for a truly decadent dessert lasagna.
* **Savory Elements:** While this recipe is predominantly sweet, consider adding a pinch of salt to the ricotta mixture to enhance the flavors. You can also add a thin layer of sautéed spinach or caramelized onions for a more savory dimension. For a savory version, consider replacing the sugar with herbs like thyme and sage, and adding some grated Parmesan cheese.

**Serving Suggestions:**

* Serve as a main course with a side salad for a light and refreshing meal.
* Serve as a dessert after a savory meal.
* Serve as part of a brunch spread.
* Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven.

**Storage Instructions:**

* Store leftover Ricotta Apple Lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

**Detailed Recipe Card:**

**Recipe Name:** Ricotta Apple Lasagna

**Prep Time:** 30 minutes

**Cook Time:** 45-50 minutes

**Total Time:** 1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 20 minutes

**Servings:** 8-10

**Ingredients:**

* 12-15 oven-ready lasagna noodles (or regular noodles, cooked al dente)
* 32 ounces (2 lbs) full-fat ricotta cheese
* 4-5 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
* 2 large eggs
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar, plus 2 tablespoons for sprinkling
* 1 teaspoon cinnamon, plus a pinch for sprinkling
* 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
* Optional toppings: Chopped walnuts or pecans, brown sugar, maple syrup

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons sugar, cinnamon (1 teaspoon), and nutmeg. Sprinkle over the apples and toss to coat.
3. Make the ricotta filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Assemble the lasagna: Spread a thin layer of ricotta mixture on the bottom of the baking dish. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles over the ricotta. Top with one-third of the apple slices, then another layer of ricotta mixture. Repeat layers, finishing with a final layer of ricotta mixture on top.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the top layer of ricotta. Sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes with the foil on. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the apples are tender.
7. Rest: Let the lasagna rest for at least 15-20 minutes before cutting and serving.
8. Serve: Cut into squares and serve warm. Optionally drizzle with maple syrup or sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans.

**Nutrition Information (estimated, per serving):**

* Calories: Approximately 350-450 kcal (depending on toppings and ingredients used)
* Fat: 15-25g
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g
* Protein: 15-20g

**Enjoy this delicious and unique Ricotta Apple Lasagna! Let me know in the comments below if you try it and how it turns out! Also, don’t forget to rate this recipe!**