Jamie Oliver Vegan Lasagne

Jamie Oliver Vegan Lasagne is a comforting, plant-based twist on the classic Italian favorite. Made with layers of tender lasagne sheets, rich tomato sauce, vegetables, and creamy dairy-free white sauce, this recipe delivers plenty of flavor without meat, milk, or cheese.

It’s perfect for family dinners, weekend cooking, or preparing meals ahead of time. With simple ingredients and a little patience, you can make a delicious vegan lasagne with a golden top and beautifully layered filling.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

• Completely plant-based – Made without meat, dairy, eggs, or other animal-derived ingredients when suitable products are used.
• Rich tomato flavor – A slow-simmered tomato and vegetable sauce adds depth and natural sweetness.
• Creamy dairy-free sauce – Plant-based milk and flour create a smooth white sauce.
• Packed with vegetables – Mushrooms, carrots, onions, and courgettes add flavor and texture.
• Perfect for meal prep – Assemble the lasagne ahead of time and bake when needed.
• Freezer-friendly – Store portions for convenient future meals.
• Ideal for family dinners – A satisfying main course that even non-vegans can enjoy.

What Is Jamie Oliver Vegan Lasagne?

Jamie Oliver Vegan Lasagne is a plant-based version of traditional Italian lasagne, made by layering pasta sheets with vegetable-rich tomato sauce and creamy vegan white sauce. It is baked until tender and golden, creating a hearty meal with plenty of flavor and texture.

This version uses everyday ingredients and dairy-free alternatives to make a satisfying vegan dinner.

Jamie Oliver Vegan Lasagne Recipe Ingredients

For the Vegetable Tomato Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium carrot, finely diced
• 250g mushrooms, chopped
• 1 medium courgette, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato purée
• 2 cans chopped tomatoes (400g each)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• A handful of fresh basil, optional

For the Vegan White Sauce

• 50g dairy-free butter
• 50g plain flour
• 600ml unsweetened plant-based milk, such as oat or soy
• A pinch of ground nutmeg
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast, optional

For Assembling the Lasagne

• 9–12 vegan lasagne sheets, depending on the baking dish
• 50g grated vegan cheese, optional
• A little olive oil for greasing

Check the pasta and other packaged ingredients to ensure they are vegan.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Vegan Lasagne

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Finely chop the onion, garlic, carrot, mushrooms, and courgette. Cutting the vegetables into small, similar-sized pieces helps them cook evenly and creates a well-balanced filling.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetable Base

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot and cook for 5 minutes until softened.

Stir in the garlic, mushrooms, and courgette. Cook for another 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables release their moisture and begin to soften.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce

Add the tomato purée, chopped tomatoes, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and black pepper.

Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Stir in fresh basil if using, then taste and adjust the seasoning.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegan White Sauce

Melt the dairy-free butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to form a smooth paste.

Gradually pour in the plant-based milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking for 5–8 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Season with nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Stir in nutritional yeast if desired, then remove from the heat.

Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F), or 160°C fan. Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil.

Spread a thin layer of vegetable tomato sauce over the bottom to prevent the pasta from sticking.

Step 6: Assemble the Lasagne

Place a layer of lasagne sheets over the tomato sauce. Spread another layer of vegetable sauce over the pasta, followed by a layer of vegan white sauce.

Repeat the layers until the ingredients are used, finishing with white sauce on top. Sprinkle over grated vegan cheese if desired.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, until the pasta is tender and the top is lightly golden.

If the pasta package requires a different cooking time, adjust the baking time accordingly.

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Remove the lasagne from the oven and leave it to rest for 10–15 minutes. This helps the layers settle, making it easier to cut neat portions.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Cut the lasagne into portions and serve warm. Add fresh basil or a little extra vegan cheese on top if desired.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Vegan Lasagne

• Fresh green salad – Crisp lettuce, cucumber, and tomatoes balance the rich lasagne.
• Garlic bread – Serve with vegan garlic bread for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.
• Roasted vegetables – Roasted peppers, aubergines, or broccoli complement the tomato sauce.
• Steamed green beans – A simple vegetable side adds freshness and color.
• Rocket salad – Peppery rocket with lemon dressing provides a bright contrast.
• Olive and tomato salad – A Mediterranean-style side works beautifully with the herbs.
• Grilled courgettes – Add another layer of vegetable flavor without making the meal too heavy.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Vegan Lasagne

• Cook the vegetables properly – Allowing their moisture to evaporate prevents a watery filling.
• Simmer the tomato sauce – A thicker sauce helps the lasagne hold its shape after baking.
• Whisk the white sauce continuously – Add plant milk gradually to avoid lumps.
• Choose suitable lasagne sheets – Check the packet instructions to determine whether they need pre-cooking.
• Avoid excessive sauce – Use enough to cover the pasta without making the layers swim in liquid.
• Season each component – Taste the tomato and white sauces separately before assembling.
• Let it rest before slicing – A short resting period produces cleaner portions.
• Use unsweetened plant milk – Unsweetened soy or oat milk usually works well in savory white sauce.

Variations of Jamie Oliver Vegan Lasagne

• Lentil lasagne – Add cooked green or brown lentils to the tomato sauce for extra protein and texture.
• Spinach version – Stir fresh spinach into the vegetable filling near the end of cooking.
• Aubergine lasagne – Add roasted aubergine for a rich, tender vegetable layer.
• Vegan ricotta style – Add a layer of seasoned tofu blended with lemon juice and nutritional yeast.
• Spicy lasagne – Add chilli flakes to the tomato sauce for a little heat.
• Roasted vegetable version – Use roasted peppers, courgettes, and aubergines for deeper flavor.
• Gluten-free alternative – Use gluten-free lasagne sheets and a suitable gluten-free flour blend.

How to Store Leftovers Vegan Lasagne?

Allow the lasagne to cool, then transfer portions to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.

To freeze, wrap individual portions securely or store them in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Defrost frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Reheat Vegan Lasagne Leftovers?

• Reheat in the oven – Cover a portion with foil and heat at 180°C (350°F) until hot throughout.
• Use the microwave – Heat individual portions in short intervals, checking the centre between intervals.
• Add a splash of water – A little water around the edges can help prevent the pasta from drying out.
• Keep it covered – Covering the dish helps retain moisture during reheating.
• Check the centre – Ensure the lasagne is steaming hot throughout before serving.

FAQs

Can I make vegan lasagne ahead of time?

Yes, vegan lasagne can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator before baking. You can also bake it ahead, refrigerate it, and reheat it when needed. Allow extra baking time if cooking it straight from the fridge.

What can I use instead of cheese in vegan lasagne?

You can use nutritional yeast, grated vegan cheese, or a tofu-based vegan ricotta to add a cheesy flavor and creamy texture. Nutritional yeast works particularly well in the dairy-free white sauce, while vegan cheese helps create a golden topping.

How do you stop vegan lasagne from becoming watery?

To prevent watery vegan lasagne, cook the vegetables until their excess moisture evaporates and simmer the tomato sauce until thick. Avoid adding too much plant-based milk to the white sauce, and let the baked lasagne rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Can you freeze vegan lasagne?

Yes, vegan lasagne can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, divide it into individual portions, and store them in airtight, freezer-safe containers. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator and reheat until hot throughout.

Prep Time: 25 minutes Cooking Time: 60 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes Cuisine: Italian-Inspired Cooking Method: Baking Category: Main Course Servings: 6 servings

Final Words

Jamie Oliver Vegan Lasagne is a hearty, flavorful meal that proves plant-based cooking can be just as comforting as traditional recipes. Layers of vegetable-rich tomato sauce, tender pasta, and creamy dairy-free white sauce create a satisfying dish for family dinners and special occasions. Prepare it ahead, let it rest after baking, and serve with a fresh salad or vegan garlic bread for a complete meal.

More recipes to add to your list

• Jamie Oliver Spaghetti and Meatballs

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