Lasagna Roll Ups

Lasagna Roll Ups are a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, offering individual portions that are perfect for any occasion. These flavorful rolls combine ricotta, spinach, and mozzarella, all enveloped in homemade marinara sauce. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering, Lasagna Roll Ups are sure to impress with their rich flavors and easy serving style. Plus, they bake faster than classic lasagna, making them a convenient choice for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These roll ups can be prepared in just 20 minutes, allowing you to serve a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Perfect Portions: Each roll is an individual serving, making them great for portion control and easy to serve at gatherings.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ricotta, spinach, and spices creates a rich and creamy filling that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your Lasagna Roll Ups by adding your favorite veggies or protein to the filling for added flavor and nutrition.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze for later! They reheat beautifully and make for quick lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this tasty dish, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• 9×13 baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the lasagna noodles to the perfect al dente texture.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the filling ingredients thoroughly before spreading.
• Baking dish: A 9×13 dish provides ample space for arranging your roll ups while ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

Learn to make Lasagna Roll Ups with ricotta, spinach, mozzarella, and marinara sauce. These individual portions bake faster and are easy to serve.

For the Sauce

• 3 cups homemade marinara sauce (or store-bought), divided

For the Filling

• 15 ounce (1 3/4 cups) part-skim ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella, divided
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 10 ounce package frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Noodles

• 9 dry lasagna noodles

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Lasagna Roll Ups

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of water to boil; throw in a good pinch of salt. Add your lasagna noodles and cook until al dente according to package directions. After draining:
– Drizzle with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
– Drape them over the colander or lay them flat on a baking sheet.

Step 2: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl:
– Stir together the ricotta cheese, egg, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, spinach, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
– Mix until combined thoroughly.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Spread about 1/3 cup of the filling mixture onto each lasagna noodle:
– Roll up each noodle in a jelly-roll fashion.
– Place each roll seam side down in the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese

Top the arranged rolls with:
– The remaining 2 cups of marinara sauce.
– The remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Cover loosely with foil:
– Bake for about 35 minutes or until cheese has melted and inside is warmed through.

Step 7: Serve

Sprinkle with some additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve right away and enjoy your delicious Lasagna Roll Ups!

How to Serve Lasagna Roll Ups

Lasagna Roll Ups are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special occasion, these individual portions make serving easy and fun.

With Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad – A mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing pairs well for a refreshing balance.
• Caesar Salad – This classic with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing adds a crunchy texture to the meal.

With Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread – Toasted bread topped with garlic butter complements the flavors in the lasagna roll ups perfectly.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread – For extra indulgence, add mozzarella on top of garlic bread before toasting for a gooey treat.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal Roasted Veggies – A side of roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots adds color and nutrition.
• Garlic-Infused Roasted Broccoli – Broccoli tossed in olive oil and garlic enhances the meal with its delicious crunch.

How to Perfect Lasagna Roll Ups

To elevate your Lasagna Roll Ups, consider these simple yet effective tips. They will ensure that each roll is packed with flavor and looks beautiful when served.

• Bold Seasoning – Use fresh herbs and spices to enhance the flavors in the ricotta mixture.
• Even Filling – Spread an even layer of filling on each noodle to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Perfectly Cooked Noodles – Cook noodles until al dente to avoid sogginess after baking.
• Avoid Overloading Sauce – Less is often more; too much sauce can make the rolls soggy. Aim for a balanced amount on top.
• Let Them Rest – Allow the rolls to sit for a few minutes after baking; this helps them hold their shape better when serving.

Best Side Dishes for Lasagna Roll Ups

Pairing your Lasagna Roll Ups with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here’s a selection of delicious options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus – Tender asparagus seasoned with garlic makes for an elegant side.
2. Antipasto Platter – A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and artichokes offers variety and flavor contrast.
3. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze create a fresh and vibrant addition.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory mushrooms stuffed with cheese and breadcrumbs bring an earthy flavor that pairs well.
5. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers a fresh bite before enjoying the main dish.
6. Creamy Polenta – Smooth polenta can be a comforting side that complements the rich flavors of lasagna roll ups.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lasagna Roll Ups can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Overcooking the Noodles: Cooking the lasagna noodles too long can make them mushy. Always follow the package instructions and aim for al dente so they hold up during baking.
• Not Draining Spinach Properly: Soggy spinach can make your filling watery. Be sure to squeeze out excess moisture after thawing the frozen spinach.
• Skipping the Marinara Layer: Forgetting to add marinara sauce to the baking dish can lead to dry rolls. Always spread a base layer of sauce before placing the rolls.
• Not Covering with Foil: Failing to cover your dish with foil can result in burnt cheese. Cover loosely during baking to retain moisture and ensure even cooking.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoned filling can make your Lasagna Roll Ups bland. Don’t skip salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning when preparing the cheese mixture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Lasagna Roll Ups in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Lasagna Roll Ups

• Freeze rolls before baking for easy future meals.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Lasagna Roll Ups

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of marinara sauce until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make vegetarian Lasagna Roll Ups?

You can easily make vegetarian Lasagna Roll Ups by omitting any meat and using additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms in the filling.

Can I prepare Lasagna Roll Ups ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance. Just store them covered in the fridge until you are ready to bake.

What type of cheese is best for Lasagna Roll Ups?

Part-skim ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan work well together for flavor and creaminess in your Lasagna Roll Ups.

How long should I bake Lasagna Roll Ups?

Bake them covered at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 minutes or until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.

Final Thoughts

These Lasagna Roll Ups offer a fun twist on traditional lasagna while being easy to serve. With their rich flavors and customizable fillings, they are perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Don’t hesitate to try different ingredients or seasonings based on your preferences!