Marry Me Lasagna

When I first made Marry Me Lasagna, it was a special occasion. I had invited someone I really liked over for dinner, and as I started preparing the meal, I could feel the anticipation in the air. As the layers of rich noodles, creamy cheese, and savory chicken came together, I couldn’t help but get excited. This wasn’t just any lasagna; it was a dish that promised to impress and win hearts. After all, who could resist such a hearty, comforting meal? As the aroma filled my kitchen, I recalled the many times I had enjoyed lasagna while growing up, making it a nostalgic experience for both my taste buds and my heart. The best part? When dinner was served, the reaction was priceless. With every bite, my guest’s eyes lit up, and I knew I had created something special. This Marry Me Lasagna quickly became a staple in my kitchen, perfect for romantic dinners or cozy family gatherings.

Ingredients to Make Marry Me Lasagna

Every great dish starts with quality ingredients, and the ones in Marry Me Lasagna are no exception. This recipe features a combination of creamy cheeses, hearty noodles, and tender chicken, all coming together to create a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. Each ingredient plays a vital role, enhancing the overall experience of this beloved comfort food.

• 12 lasagna noodles (uncooked): These are the foundation of your dish, providing structure and the perfect vehicle for all those creamy layers.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter: Used for creating a rich base in your sauce.
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic: Adds a wonderful aromatic flavor to the sauce.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce for a velvety texture.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Provides depth and flavor to the sauce.
• 2½ cups heavy cream: Creates a rich and creamy base for the sauce.
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty flavor and enhances the creaminess.
• 1 (8-ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes (drained, julienne cut): Brings a sweet and tangy element to the dish.
• 2 teaspoons paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and vibrant color.
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the dish an authentic flavor.
• salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
• 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken: The protein base that makes this dish hearty and filling.
• 2 cups chopped spinach: Adds color and nutrients.
• 2½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: This melty cheese creates that beloved gooey texture.
• 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese: Provides creaminess and richness.
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Used in both the sauce and the layers for extra flavor.
• 1 large egg: Helps bind the ricotta mixture.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.

Recipe Steps for Marry Me Lasagna

Making Marry Me Lasagna can be an enjoyable experience, with plenty of opportunities to get your hands involved. Follow these steps for a delicious outcome that’s bound to impress. From boiling the noodles to layering all those delicious ingredients, this recipe will guide you to create a mouthwatering lasagna that everyone will love.

1. Start by boiling 12 lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain the noodles in cold water to stop the cooking process and set them aside. This step ensures that the noodles are perfectly cooked and ready to hold your layers of flavor.
2. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven heats up, spray a 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray, ensuring that your lasagna doesn’t stick during baking.
3. In a large skillet, melt ¼ cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 2 teaspoons minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This is where the delicious aroma begins to fill your kitchen!
4. Next, sprinkle in ¼ cup all-purpose flour and stir it to create a paste. This roux will help thicken your sauce to perfection.
5. Whisk in 1 cup chicken broth and 2½ cups heavy cream, along with 1 cup grated parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed and smooth.
6. Stir in 1 (8-ounce) jar sun-dried tomatoes, 2 teaspoons paprika, and 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow this rich sauce to simmer over medium-low heat for about 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
7. Add 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken and 2 cups chopped spinach to the sauce. Stir to combine and let the spinach wilt slightly, infusing the sauce with even more flavor. Set the finished sauce aside while you prepare the cheese mixture.
8. In a large bowl, combine 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese, 1 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined; this cheesy mixture will add creaminess between the layers.
9. To assemble your lasagna, start by spreading ½ cup of the meat sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place a layer of noodles over this sauce, followed by ½ cup of the ricotta mixture. Add ¾ cup of the meat sauce over the ricotta, then sprinkle with ½ cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
10. Repeat the layers two more times. For the final layer, top with a final layer of noodles, the remaining meat sauce, and the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, making sure it’s tight enough to keep the heat in.
11. Bake the lasagna in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, creating a beautiful crust on top of your Marry Me Lasagna.