I’ll be honest, my husband was never a fan of meatless meals. Anytime I mentioned making a vegetarian lasagna, he’d politely suggest we order takeout instead. But then I made this Butter Bean Lasagna, and everything changed. Now, he asks me to make it every single week!
This lasagna is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, but instead of traditional meat, it uses butter beans for a hearty, protein-packed twist. The beans soak up all the delicious flavors from the sauce, making every bite just as satisfying and comforting as a classic lasagna.
If you’re looking for a wholesome, feel-good meal that even the most skeptical eaters will love, this Butter Bean Lasagna is the one. Trust me, if my husband can be converted, anyone can!
Table of Contents
What is Butter Bean Lasagna?
Butter Bean Lasagna is a twist on traditional lasagna, where butter beans replace meat to create a hearty, protein-rich meal. The creamy texture of butter beans blends beautifully with tomato sauce, herbs, and melted cheese, offering a wholesome, meat-free alternative to the classic dish.
Unlike regular veggie lasagna, which often relies on mushrooms or spinach, this version uses butter beans for added creaminess and protein, making it more filling and satisfying.
Why Use Butter Beans in Lasagna?
Butter beans (also called lima beans) are a great substitute for meat in lasagna because they:
Are high in protein – A perfect vegetarian protein source.
Provide a creamy texture – Making the lasagna extra smooth and rich.
Are packed with fiber – Helps with digestion and keeps you full longer.
Enhance flavor – Their mild, buttery taste pairs perfectly with Italian seasonings.
🔹 Bonus: Using butter beans instead of meat reduces calories and fat, making this dish a healthier alternative!
Key Ingredients Overview
To make Butter Bean Lasagna, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
Butter Beans – Canned or cooked dried beans.
Lasagna Noodles – Regular, whole wheat, or gluten-free.
Tomato Sauce – Homemade or store-bought marinara.
Cheese – Mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan for a creamy, cheesy topping.
Optional Add-Ins:
Vegetables – Spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms for extra nutrients.
Herbs & Spices – Basil, oregano, garlic, and chili flakes for flavor.
White Sauce Alternative – A creamy béchamel sauce instead of tomato-based sauce.
🔹 Tip: You can customize this lasagna with your favorite vegetables and seasonings to suit your taste!
Choosing the Right Lasagna Noodles
The type of lasagna noodles you use affects texture and cooking time.
Traditional Noodles – Require boiling before assembling.
No-Boil Lasagna Sheets – Absorb moisture from the sauce and cook in the oven.
Gluten-Free Lasagna Sheets – Ideal for those with dietary restrictions.
🔹Tip: If using no-boil lasagna, ensure your sauce has extra moisture to soften the sheets while baking.
Best Cheeses for Butter Bean Lasagna
Cheese adds creaminess and a rich, savory flavor to lasagna. Here are the best options:
Mozzarella – Melts beautifully for that stretchy, cheesy top layer.
Ricotta – Adds creaminess between the layers.
Parmesan – Enhances flavor with a nutty, salty taste.
🔹 Dairy-Free Option: Use cashew cheese or dairy-free mozzarella for a vegan version.
Tomato Sauce vs. White Sauce – Which One to Choose?
Both marinara (red sauce) and béchamel (white sauce) work well with butter beans, but they create different flavors:
Tomato Sauce (Classic) – Tangy, rich, and full of Italian seasoning.
White Sauce (Creamy) – Smooth and velvety, blending perfectly with butter beans.
🔹Tip: Try mixing both sauces for a creamy yet tangy combination!
Herbs and Spices for Maximum Flavor
Italian lasagna relies on bold seasonings to enhance its taste. Here’s what to use:
Basil & Oregano – Classic Italian flavors.
Garlic & Onion Powder – Adds depth to the sauce.
Chili Flakes – For a spicy kick (optional).
🔹 Pro Tip: Add fresh basil on top before serving for extra aroma and freshness!
Nutritional Breakdown of Butter Bean Lasagna
This lasagna is lower in fat than traditional meat lasagna but still packed with protein and fiber. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:
- Calories: ~350-400 kcal
- Protein: ~15-20g
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Fiber: ~8-10g
- Fat: ~8-12g
🔹Tip: To make it lighter, use whole wheat noodles and reduce the cheese amount.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need fancy tools, just the basics:
Baking Dish – A 9×13-inch dish works best.
Blender (Optional) – For blending butter beans into a creamy sauce.
Cheese Grater – Freshly grated cheese melts better!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Butter Bean Lasagna
Now that you know why Butter Bean Lasagna is a delicious and healthy alternative, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to make it from scratch. Whether you’re using traditional lasagna noodles, no-boil sheets, or a gluten-free version, this guide ensures perfectly layered, cheesy, and flavorful lasagna every time.
Ingredients List
Main Ingredients:
✔ 2 cups cooked butter beans (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
✔ 12 lasagna noodles (regular, no-boil, or gluten-free)
✔ 2 cups tomato sauce (marinara or homemade)
✔ 1 cup ricotta cheese (or a dairy-free alternative)
✔ 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella
✔ ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
✔ 1 medium onion, finely chopped
✔ 3 cloves garlic, minced
✔ 2 tbsp olive oil
Optional Add-Ins:
✔ 1 cup spinach (for extra greens)
✔ ½ cup mushrooms (adds an earthy flavor)
✔ ½ tsp chili flakes (for spice)
✔ 1 tsp dried oregano & basil (for Italian flavor)
🔹 Tip: If using dried butter beans, soak them overnight and cook until soft before starting.
Preparing the Butter Beans
If you’re using canned butter beans, drain and rinse them well to remove excess salt.
✔ For a chunkier texture: Mash half of the butter beans with a fork and leave the rest whole.
✔ For a creamy sauce: Blend all the butter beans into a smooth paste with a little water or olive oil.
🔹 Pro Tip: Adding a few spices to the beans (like garlic powder and oregano) enhances their flavor!
Making the Sauce
A rich and flavorful sauce is the key to a great lasagna.
How to Make a Butter Bean Tomato Sauce:
1️⃣ Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2️⃣ Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
3️⃣ Add tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and chili flakes.
4️⃣ Stir in butter beans and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
✔ For a white sauce version: Blend butter beans with vegetable broth and nutritional yeast for a creamy, béchamel-style alternative.
Prepping the Noodles
Depending on your lasagna noodles, follow these steps:
Traditional noodles: Boil in salted water until al dente, then drain.
No-boil noodles: Use extra sauce to ensure they soften while baking.
Gluten-free noodles: Cook carefully as they can break easily.
🔹 Tip: Drizzle a little olive oil on cooked noodles to prevent sticking.
Assembling the Layers
The best part—layering the lasagna for maximum flavor!
📌 Step-by-Step Lasagna Layering:
1️⃣ Spread ¼ cup of sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
2️⃣ Add a layer of lasagna noodles (3-4 noodles per layer).
3️⃣ Spread the butter bean mixture evenly over the noodles.
4️⃣ Add ricotta cheese and a handful of shredded mozzarella.
5️⃣ Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with cheese on top.
✔ Final Layer: Make sure the top layer is covered with cheese for a golden, crispy finish!
Baking Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and follow these steps:
How to Bake Butter Bean Lasagna:
1️⃣ Cover the dish with foil to prevent over-browning.
2️⃣ Bake for 30 minutes (covered).
3️⃣ Remove foil and bake for 15 more minutes for a golden cheese crust.
4️⃣ Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
🔹 Pro Tip: If you love a crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end!
Letting the Lasagna Rest
Resting the lasagna before slicing helps:
The layers firm up, preventing a messy cut.
Flavors blend, making each bite more delicious.
📌 Recommended Resting Time: 10-15 minutes before serving.
🔹 Tip: Cover lightly with foil while resting to keep it warm without trapping too much steam.
Slicing and Serving
For clean and perfect slices, use a sharp knife and:
Cut straight down without dragging the knife.
Use a spatula to lift slices carefully.
Serve with fresh basil or grated parmesan on top.
“Looking for a crunchy side to pair with your Butter Bean Lasagna? Try making your crispy rice crackers for a delicious contrast in textures. Homemade rice crackers are light, flavorful, and make a great appetizer or side dish. Check out The Ultimate Guide to Making Rice Crackers – Simple & Delicious to learn how to make them from scratch!”
Storing Leftovers
Butter Bean Lasagna stores well and tastes even better the next day!
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap individual portions and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave until hot.
🔹 Pro Tip: Add a splash of water before reheating to prevent dryness.
Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
❌ Watery Lasagna?
✔ Use less sauce and let it rest properly before slicing.
❌ Noodles too hard?
✔ Ensure enough sauce if using no-boil noodles.
❌ Cheese burns before the lasagna is done?
✔ Cover with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking.
🔹 Pro Tip: If lasagna seems too dry, drizzle a little olive oil or extra sauce before serving!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Butter Bean Lasagna ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it a day in advance and bake when ready.
2. How do I keep lasagna from falling apart when slicing?
Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting for clean layers.
3. Can I freeze Butter Bean Lasagna?
Yes! Wrap in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
4. What’s the best way to reheat lasagna?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave with a splash of water.
5. Can I use other beans instead of butter beans?
Yes! Cannellini beans or chickpeas work well.
6. How do I make it extra creamy?
Blend some butter beans with ricotta for a richer filling.
7. What side dishes go well with Butter Bean Lasagna?
Serve with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
8. Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes! Ground turkey, beef, or sausage can be added if desired.
9. How do I prevent lasagna from being too watery?
Use less sauce, drain cooked vegetables, and let lasagna rest before cutting.
10. Can I make this lasagna in a cast-iron skillet?
Yes! Layer everything in a cast-iron pan and bake directly.
Final Thoughts on Butter Bean Lasagna
This Butter Bean Lasagna Recipe is a game changer, nutrient-dense, protein-packed, and loaded with flavor! Whether you follow a vegetarian, gluten-free, or high-protein diet, this lasagna is fully adaptable to your needs.