If you’re craving a fresh take on a classic comfort food, this Lasagna Rolls Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine tender pasta sheets lovingly rolled around a creamy, savory ricotta and spinach filling, smothered in rich marinara and bubbling melty mozzarella. It’s the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence that transforms a familiar favorite into an elegant yet easy-to-make dish that your family and friends will rave about. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, these lasagna rolls will warm your heart and satisfy every craving for Italian goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Lasagna Rolls Recipe plays a starring role, coming together to create a flavor-packed, visually stunning dish. Fresh spinach adds a vibrant green punch, while a blend of cheeses lends creamy richness and gooey meltiness. The marinara sauce ties it all together with a zesty tomato base that balances perfectly with the herbs and garlic.
- 12 lasagna noodles: Cooked al dente so they roll up easily without cracking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the spinach and adding a fruity depth to the filling.
- 3 cups ricotta cheese: The creamy base of the filling that melts beautifully during baking.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold the filling together inside each roll.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: For gooey, melty goodness inside and on top.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances every bite.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped and lightly sautéed: Keeps the rolls bright and packed with nutrients.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the filling with savory, aromatic warmth.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that elevates the dish’s flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: To season the filling perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that balances the richness.
- 3 cups marinara sauce, divided: A tangy, herbaceous foundation for the rolls and their topping.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds brightness and a lovely fresh finish.
How to Make Lasagna Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the noodles
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Then, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are perfectly al dente—tender but still with a little bite. Drain and carefully lay them flat on parchment paper, preventing sticking and making rolling easier later.
Step 2: Make the filling
In a large bowl, stir together ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, sautéed spinach, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is creamy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned to create a luscious filling that melts in your mouth.
Step 3: Assemble the rolls
Spread about 1/4 cup of the cheese filling evenly over each cooked noodle. Make sure to cover the entire noodle length-wise so every bite is filled with cheesy goodness. Next, spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish to keep the rolls moist while baking.
Step 4: Roll and arrange
Carefully roll up each noodle starting from one end, then place the rolls seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. This keeps the filling sealed inside as they bake. Once all rolls are nestled snugly in the dish, spoon the remaining marinara sauce evenly over them.
Step 5: Bake
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese on top for that irresistible golden, bubbly finish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted and slightly browned. Let the lasagna rolls rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Lasagna Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a perfect pop of color and a subtle herbal contrast to the rich, cheesy rolls. You can also add a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
These lasagna rolls pair beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, garlic bread to mop up every bit of sauce, or even roasted vegetables for a heartier meal. The simplicity of the sides balances the richness of the rolls and rounds out the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve each guest two or three rolls stacked elegantly on a plate, perhaps with a small ramekin of extra marinara on the side for dipping. For a family-style feast, bake the rolls in a colorful ceramic dish and garnish with fresh herbs for a rustic, inviting centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Lasagna rolls make excellent leftovers, as the flavors only improve when they’ve had time to meld. Store any uneaten rolls tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) lasagna rolls by covering the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking according to the recipe instructions.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Microwaving works too, but be sure to cover the rolls to keep them moist and warm evenly.
FAQs
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles for this Lasagna Rolls Recipe?
No-boil noodles can work, but they are harder to roll since they soften during baking rather than beforehand. If you try it, let the rolls sit in the sauce longer for the noodles to fully cook and soften.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Yes! Swap out the ricotta, egg, and cheeses for plant-based alternatives like tofu ricotta and vegan mozzarella. Use olive oil and nutritional yeast to boost flavor, and select a dairy-free marinara sauce.
How can I make this dish heartier?
Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the ricotta filling for extra richness and protein. Another option is layering in sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies for more texture and depth.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it great for entertaining or busy weeknights.
What should I serve if I want a full meal?
Complementing the lasagna rolls with a fresh salad, crusty garlic bread, and perhaps a glass of red wine creates a comforting and complete Italian-inspired meal perfect for any occasion.
Final Thoughts
This Lasagna Rolls Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It combines simplicity with mouthwatering flavors and a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re new to Italian cooking or a seasoned pro, these rolls are a delightful way to mix things up and bring smiles to the table. I can’t wait for you to try making them and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!
Print
Lasagna Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Lasagna Rolls filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, and Italian seasonings, baked to perfection with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a comforting Italian main course that serves six.
Ingredients
Lasagna Rolls Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped and lightly sautéed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups marinara sauce, divided
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get ready for baking the lasagna rolls.
- Cook Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and carefully lay them flat on parchment paper to keep them from sticking.
- Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, sautéed spinach, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Assemble Rolls: Spread about 1/4 cup of the cheese and spinach mixture evenly over each cooked lasagna noodle.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Roll and Place Noodles: Carefully roll up each noodle with the filling inside, and place the rolls seam-side down in the baking dish over the sauce.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon the remaining 2 cups of marinara sauce evenly over the rolled noodles. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the lasagna rolls rest for 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a heartier option, add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the ricotta mixture.
- Substitute kale for spinach if preferred.
- You can assemble the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
