Easy Gluten Free Lasagna Dairy Free

Lasagna is just one of those meals that’s the perfect balance of comforting, filling, and delicious, and it can feed a lot of people with minimal effort. This version is our dairy-free and gluten-free take on classic-style lasagna (we have a vegan version if that’s more your thing). And it’s about as simple as it gets, requiring just 10 ingredients to prepare. Let’s do this!

Origins of Lasagna

Perhaps like many of you, we were under the impression that lasagna originated in Italy. Turns out, its origin history is more complicated! Some say the concept originated in ancient Greece where layered dough sheets (called laganon) were cut into strips and baked. Others claim it resembles a Roman dish recorded in a cookbook in the 1st century AD. And still others place its origin in England or Italy in the 14th century, where cookbooks describe the concept of layering cheese and pasta in a dish and baking it. (source) But it wasn’t until the 16th century that tomato-based versions were recorded that more closely resembles today’s lasagna. These versions came from Italy. So to everyone who ever contributed to the invention of lasagna, we’re forever grateful!

How to Make Lasagna

Making lasagna is pretty straightforward in terms of assembly. But the ingredients can be swapped out for just about any dietary preference. Start by preparing your three layers: Our sauce is prepared by sautéing garlic, red pepper flake (optional), ground beef, and salt until the meat is browned. Then add in your favorite marinara sauce and season further with optional Italian herbs and sweetener. Next, the noodles are boiled and drained. Or — our preference — opt for no-boil gluten-free lasagna noodles such as Capello’s. The homemade “cheese” comes next. Simply add macadamia nuts (or slivered almonds or soaked cashews) to a food processor along with lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and sea salt. Blend it up, slowly adding water until it resembles ricotta cheese! Or, sub store-bought (our favorite being Kite Hill Ricotta). Finally, let’s layer!

How to Layer Lasagna

We like to use a little jingle to remember the order: Sauce, Noodles, Cheese. (Repeat x2). And then on the fourth repetition: Sauce, Noodles, SAUCE! Once you make lasagna enough times, you won’t even have to look up the order! Then at the very end, add a sprinkle of homemade vegan parmesan cheese for even more flavor.

How Long to Bake Lasagna

To allow the flavors to develop, we like to bake the lasagna until it’s nice and bubbly with crisp edges. Baking uncovered on the middle rack at 350 degrees F (176 C) for 40-45 minutes is perfect. We hope you LOVE this lasagna! It’s:FillingHeartyFlavorfulEasy& So delicious! This lasagna is perfect for make-ahead meals, feeding a crowd, or any time you’re craving a simple, filling dinner. It’s delicious on its own, but also pairs well with salads or other greens.