Name: Cheesy Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna Roll Ups
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 15 lasagna noodles; 2 c. ricotta cheese; 1 c. mozzarella cheese, freshly grated and divided; ½ c. parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 1 egg; ½ c. fresh parsley, chopped; 8-10 oz. frozen spinach, thawed and well drained; 3 c. marinara sauce, divided; Sea salt and black pepper to taste

Gather your ingredients for a delectable twist on a classic Italian favorite. Our Cheesy Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna Roll Ups are a harmonious blend of creamy ricotta, rich mozzarella, and vibrant spinach rolled into tender lasagna noodles.

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This dish promises to deliver not only in terms of visual appeal but as a satisfying meal that brings comfort to the table. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, these roll ups are set to become a cherished recipe in your repertoire.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Easy to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or for preparing meals for the week.
It’s a fun twist on traditional lasagna, providing the same classic flavors in a personal-sized portion.
Incorporating spinach adds a nutritional boost, making it a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
These roll ups freeze well, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal any time without the fuss of cooking from scratch.

Ingredients

15 lasagna noodles: Opt for high-quality noodles that promise to hold their shape and texture through the cooking process, essential for a sturdy and satisfying bite.
2 cups ricotta cheese: Choose whole milk ricotta for its creamier texture and richer flavor; it forms the luscious base of the roll ups’ filling.
1 cup mozzarella cheese: Freshly grate your mozzarella to ensure a delightful melt and irresistible stretch in every roll up, with half reserved for a golden top layer.
1/2 cup parmesan cheese: Freshly grated parmesan infuses the dish with a nutty and salty depth that balances the creamy ricotta.
1 egg: Acts as a binder to unite the cheese mixture, providing structure and stability to your filling.
1/2 cup fresh parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a subtle herby freshness that complements the richness of the cheeses.
8-10 oz. frozen spinach: Make sure the spinach is thoroughly drained to prevent a soggy filling; it introduces a gorgeous green hue and a nutritional punch.
3 cups marinara sauce: Using a quality marinara sauce elevates the dish with its warmth and complexity; divide it to layer within and atop your roll ups.
Sea salt and black pepper: Season to taste, enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients and adding a touch of spice.

Substitutions and Additions

Should you desire to tweak the recipe or accommodate dietary restrictions, here are some alterations and enhancements you can consider:

Swap ricotta cheese for cottage cheese if you’re looking for a lighter option with a similar texture.
If mozzarella isn’t on hand, try using grated Gouda or Provolone for that gooey cheese factor; each brings a unique flavor to the dish.
For those avoiding dairy, a bechamel sauce thickened with non-dairy milk and nutritional yeast can replace the traditional cheese filling.
Egg can be substituted with a ‘flax egg’ — a mixture of ground flaxseed and water — to keep the dish vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing binding properties.
Fresh baby kale or swiss chard can stand in for spinach, adding a different yet equally wholesome green element.
Enhance the marinara sauce with herbs such as basil or oregano, or consider a drizzle of truffle oil for added luxury.
Lastly, infuse an extra layer of flavor with a hint of garlic or red pepper flakes incorporated into the cheese mixture for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

Instructions

Please preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Boil lasagna noodles in salted water until they are almost cooked to perfection, following the instructions on the package.

In the meantime, in a medium-sized bowl, mix together ricotta, 1/2 cup of grated mozzarella, parmesan, egg, and parsley.

Squeeze the excess moisture from the spinach using cheesecloth or paper towels. Incorporate it into the ricotta mixture, breaking it up with your hands or a fork as you add it to the bowl. Season with salt and pepper to your liking, ensuring thorough mixing.

Evenly coat the bottom of a spacious casserole dish with a generous cup of marinara sauce.

After the noodles have finished cooking, drain them and spread them out in a single layer on a sheet pan lined with parchment paper or any other flat surface. This will prevent them from sticking together.

Take each lasagna noodle and generously spread 2-3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture evenly along the entire length of the noodle.

After evenly coating the noodles with the ricotta mixture, carefully roll them up and arrange them vertically in the casserole dish. This way, the beautifully rolled layers will be visible on top.

Pour the marinara sauce over the noodles and generously sprinkle the reserved mozzarella cheese on top.

Place a sheet of aluminum foil over the casserole dish. Allow it to bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes.

Allow the dish to cool for a duration of 10 minutes prior to serving.

Recipe tips

To ensure even cooking, make sure all roll ups are of similar size and snugly fit in the dish.
To prevent the noodles from sticking while you work, lay out wax paper or a clean damp cloth and place noodles side by side.
Lightly oiling the foil before covering the dish can help prevent the cheese from sticking during the final minutes of baking.
If you’re preparing roll ups ahead of time, cover and store them in the refrigerator before the final baking step.
Allow the baked roll ups to sit for a few minutes after removing from the oven, as this helps them set and makes serving easier.
Use a serrated knife to cleanly cut through the roll ups if making multiple servings at once.
To achieve a perfectly crisp top layer, consider broiling the roll ups for the last two minutes of baking.
Personalize each portion with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of grated cheese just before serving for an added touch.

Storage & reheating

Lasagna roll ups are ideal for making in advance and can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer with ease. For refrigeration, cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual roll ups to an airtight container; they will keep for 3 to 5 days. To freeze, wrap each roll up individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible; they can be stored this way for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your roll ups from the fridge, simply reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes or until thoroughly warmed through. If you’re reheating frozen roll ups, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Alternatively, you can reheat them directly from frozen by covering the dish with foil and baking at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 45 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to ensure they are heated evenly throughout.

Recipe FAQ

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute traditional lasagna noodles with your favorite gluten-free brand. Be sure to cook them according to the package instructions as gluten-free pasta can have a different texture and cook time.

What can I serve with lasagna roll-ups for a complete meal?

These roll-ups pair well with a crisp, green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a lighter touch, serve with a side of roasted Mediterranean vegetables.

How do I know if the roll-ups are done baking?

The cheese on top should be golden and bubbly, and the edges of the roll-ups slightly crispy. Inserting a knife in the center should feel hot to touch when removed, indicating the roll-ups are heated through.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh spinach can be wilted in a pan with a little bit of water. Once wilted, cool it down and squeeze out the excess moisture before adding it to the cheese mixture.

Are the roll-ups suitable for a potluck? How should I transport them?

Lasagna roll-ups are perfect for potlucks. Prepare them in a disposable foil tray, bake them at home, and then wrap them well with foil to keep them warm. If necessary, give them a quick reheat at the venue.

Can the lasagna rolls be made without cheese for a vegan option?

Yes, you can use readily available vegan cheese substitutes and ricotta options. Also, replace the egg with a vegan binder like a flax egg or commercial egg replacer.

Yield: 6-7 portions