Name: Ghostly Lasagna
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 9 lasagna noodles; 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; 1 ½ cups cooked spinach, squeezed dry; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 3 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; 6 fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine size); 1 tablespoon black olive pieces or black sesame seeds

I have to admit, I’ve always had a soft spot for recipes that bring a little fun to the table—and this Ghostly Lasagna checks every box. Not only is it hearty and comforting with all those glorious layers of pasta, cheese, and savory tomato sauce, but it’s also dressed up for Halloween with the cutest little mozzarella ghosts you’ve ever seen. Whether you’re hosting a spooky dinner party or just want to surprise the kids with something festive, this dish delivers on both taste and charm.

The idea for Ghostly Lasagna came to me when I wanted to take a traditional lasagna and give it a seasonal twist—something a little playful, but still incredibly delicious. I made it for a family Halloween night, and it disappeared faster than candy corn at a costume party. It’s cozy, satisfying, and festive without being fussy. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dish if you’re juggling party prep or trick-or-treat chaos.

Why You’ll Love This Ghostly Lasagna

This recipe brings together the classic comfort of homemade lasagna with a clever Halloween makeover. The little ghost toppers made from fresh mozzarella make it fun for kids (and let’s be honest, adults too). Beyond the cuteness, it’s packed with spinach, layers of rich ricotta, savory marinara, and bubbling cheese—making it both a delicious main course and a fun conversation starter. It’s the perfect combination of spooky and satisfying.

What Kind of Lasagna Noodles Should I Use?

For this Ghostly Lasagna, I like using traditional lasagna noodles that require boiling. They tend to hold their shape better and give a nice structure to all the layers. That said, no-boil noodles can work in a pinch if you’re short on time—just make sure your sauce is a bit more liquidy so the noodles can soften fully in the oven. If you’re going for a gluten-free version, look for rice or lentil-based lasagna sheets, which also bake up beautifully.

Options for Substitutions

This recipe is surprisingly flexible, and you can tailor it to fit your dietary needs or preferences:

Cheese: Not a fan of ricotta? Swap it with cottage cheese for a lighter texture, or mascarpone for something extra rich.
Meat: Want it heartier? Add cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage between the layers for a meaty twist.
Veggies: Feel free to load it with extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers.
Sauce: A classic marinara is perfect, but if you’re feeling adventurous, a creamy béchamel or even a pumpkin-infused tomato sauce brings a nice fall flavor.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese, tofu-based ricotta, and a vegan white sauce to keep all the spooky fun without the animal products.

These little changes don’t take away from the festive vibe—it just means everyone gets a slice of the fun.

Ingredients for This Ghostly Lasagna

Lasagna Noodles
The foundation of any good lasagna. I use classic boiled noodles for their sturdy texture and satisfying bite.
Ricotta Cheese
Creamy and mild, ricotta adds a smooth, rich layer that balances the tangy marinara and hearty noodles.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
For that gooey, melty top and middle layer. It’s also the base for shaping our adorable ghost toppers!
Grated Parmesan Cheese
Adds depth, saltiness, and a bit of sharpness to balance the other cheeses.
Spinach
A healthy touch that adds color, texture, and just enough earthy flavor to complement the richness.
Egg
Mixed into the ricotta to help bind it and give it structure during baking.
Marinara Sauce
A good-quality tomato sauce is essential—rich, flavorful, and well-seasoned to bring everything together.
Salt and Pepper
Simple, but necessary to season each component and elevate the overall flavor.
Fresh Mozzarella Balls
These become the stars of the show—hand-shaped into spooky ghosts that sit on top of the lasagna after baking.
Black Olive Pieces or Black Sesame Seeds
Used for the ghost eyes to give them their cute, wide-eyed Halloween personality.

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and lay them flat on a parchment-lined tray to keep them from sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with the egg, spinach (squeezed dry if using frozen), salt, and pepper. This mixture adds a creamy, flavorful layer that holds everything together.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Add a layer of noodles, followed by the ricotta-spinach mixture, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and a bit of parmesan. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and a generous layer of shredded mozzarella and parmesan on top.

Step 4: Bake the Lasagna

Cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Shape the Mozzarella Ghosts

While the lasagna bakes, shape your mozzarella balls into little ghost figures by gently stretching or carving them. Use pieces of black olives or black sesame seeds to make tiny eyes.

Step 6: Decorate

Once the lasagna is out of the oven and slightly cooled, place the mozzarella ghosts on top. Their spooky cuteness will sit perfectly over the cheesy layer, and the warmth of the lasagna will help them settle without melting away.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Cut into generous slices and serve warm. Each piece gets its own little ghost topper, making this dish a showstopper for Halloween dinner.

How Long to Cook the Ghostly Lasagna

The total cook time for this lasagna is about 40 minutes. You’ll want to:

Bake covered at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. This allows everything to heat through evenly without drying out.
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes to brown the cheese on top and let it bubble beautifully.

Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing so the layers hold their shape.

Tips for Perfect Ghostly Lasagna

Don’t skip the rest time: Once out of the oven, the lasagna needs a few minutes to settle. Cutting too early makes it messy.
Dry your spinach well: If you’re using frozen spinach, be sure to squeeze out all the excess moisture. This prevents a watery lasagna.
Use enough sauce: A generous amount of marinara ensures the lasagna stays moist and flavorful. It also helps soften the noodles if you’re using no-boil pasta.
Shape the ghosts ahead of time: Carve your mozzarella ghosts while the lasagna bakes so they’re ready to go when it’s done.
Add herbs for extra flavor: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley between layers adds brightness that complements the richness of the cheese.
Layer evenly: Try to spread your ricotta and sauce layers uniformly so every bite is balanced.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Noodles: Boiling the pasta too long can make it mushy, especially after baking. Cook until just al dente.
Skipping the Sauce at the Base: Starting with sauce on the bottom prevents sticking and helps the first layer cook properly.
Not Draining Spinach Thoroughly: Extra moisture can lead to a watery final dish—press out that liquid!
Crowding the Ghosts Too Soon: Adding the mozzarella ghosts too early can cause them to melt and lose their shape. Wait until the lasagna has cooled slightly.
Under-seasoning the Ricotta Layer: Don’t forget to salt your ricotta mixture—it needs that boost to stand up to the tomato sauce.
Using Too Little Cheese: This is a comfort food dish! Don’t be shy with the cheese if you want those perfect gooey layers.

What to Serve With Ghostly Lasagna?

Garlic Bread

Buttery, golden garlic bread is a classic lasagna side—and perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.

Mixed Green Salad

A crisp salad with vinaigrette adds a fresh contrast to the rich layers of the lasagna.

Roasted Tomato Soup

Pairing it with a warm, cozy soup keeps the Halloween comfort theme going strong.

Roasted Vegetables

Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers roasted with herbs bring color and balance to the plate.

Caprese Skewers

Mini skewers with cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella echo the Italian theme and add a fun finger-food option.

Sparkling Apple Cider

A festive, kid-friendly drink that feels seasonal and refreshing alongside the warm lasagna.

Halloween Fruit Platter

Think blackberries, grapes, and orange slices—seasonal, spooky, and sweet.

Pumpkin Pudding or Cheesecake Bites

Round out the meal with a simple dessert that ties into the fall flavors of the season.

Storage Instructions

Ghostly Lasagna stores wonderfully, making it a great make-ahead or leftover-friendly meal.

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Freezer: You can freeze the lasagna before or after baking. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, add an extra 30–40 minutes covered with foil.
Mozzarella Ghosts Note: If you’re making this ahead, add the mozzarella ghosts after reheating so they keep their shape and spooky charm.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 8 servings)

Calories: 390
Protein: 21g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 620mg
Cholesterol: 65mg

Note: Nutrition will vary depending on the type of cheese, sauce, and noodles used. Adding meat or other vegetables may also affect values.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cheese works best for making the ghost shapes?

Fresh mozzarella is ideal because it’s soft, pliable, and easy to shape into ghost-like figures. Bocconcini or mozzarella logs work well—just stretch or carve them gently.

Can I make this Ghostly Lasagna ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire lasagna a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake just before serving. Add the mozzarella ghosts after baking for the best effect.

How do I prevent the lasagna from being too watery?

Make sure to drain your spinach thoroughly and avoid overly thin sauces. Also, let the lasagna rest after baking to allow it to firm up.

Can I use a store-bought sauce?

Absolutely. Just choose a high-quality marinara with good flavor. You can always add some garlic, herbs, or chili flakes to give it a personal touch.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free lasagna noodles. Most grocery stores carry rice- or corn-based options that bake beautifully.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Individual portions can go in the microwave, covered, for 2–3 minutes. For larger portions, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.

Can I add meat to the lasagna?

Definitely! Ground beef, turkey, or sausage can be added in layers with the sauce. Just cook the meat beforehand and drain excess fat.

Will kids enjoy this?

Yes! The ghost toppings are a hit with kids, and the cheesy, familiar flavors make it super kid-friendly. It’s festive, fun, and still wholesome.

Conclusion

Ghostly Lasagna is the ultimate blend of cozy comfort food and playful Halloween spirit. With rich layers of cheese, pasta, and sauce, plus those adorable mozzarella ghosts on top, it turns an everyday dinner into something a little magical. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a spooky dinner party, this dish guarantees empty plates and happy faces. It’s festive without being complicated—and that’s the kind of Halloween recipe I’ll make year after year.