Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups

These Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups are a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, offering a flavorful three-cheese filling wrapped in tender noodles. Perfect for family dinners, entertaining guests, or meal prepping for the week, these roll-ups are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Enjoy the comforting taste of lasagna without the hassle of layering, making it an ideal choice for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan delivers a rich taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal: This dish can be served as a main course or paired with a salad for a complete meal.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare in advance and simply bake when ready to serve—perfect for busy days!
• Meatless Delight: A hearty vegetarian option that even meat lovers will enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools is essential. Below are some recommended kitchen tools to help you create these delightful Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Baking dish (13×9-inch)
• Parchment paper
• Clean kitchen towel

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling lasagna noodles evenly without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining your cheese and spinach filling thoroughly.
• Baking dish: A spacious dish ensures all roll ups fit perfectly while baking.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

These Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups have a flavorful three cheese filling. Enjoy lasagna without all of the layering! These lasagna rolls are a delicious meatless meal that you can make ahead.

For the Roll Ups

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 10 ounce package frozen chopped spinach
• 1 egg
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce

• 25 ounce jar marinara sauce

How to Make Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions for al dente. Drain them, rinse with cold water, and lay the noodles out in a single layer on parchment paper to cool and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Thaw the Spinach

While the noodles cool, thaw the spinach in a microwave-safe bowl using the defrost setting or very low power in the microwave. Alternatively, place frozen spinach in the refrigerator overnight to thaw. Once thawed, wrap spinach in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out any excess moisture.

Step 3: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F (175° C) so it’s ready when you’re done preparing your roll ups.

Step 4: Prepare Filling

In a large mixing bowl, crack the egg and beat it slightly with a fork. Add the thawed spinach, ricotta cheese, all but 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble Roll Ups

Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a large rectangular baking dish (13×9-inch). Take each lasagna noodle and spread about ¼ cup of the cheese and spinach mixture over it. Carefully roll up each noodle and place them seam side down in the prepared baking dish.

Step 6: Add Sauce & Cheese Topping

Spread remaining marinara sauce over the tops of all roll ups and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese. If you have extra marinara sauce left over, save it for serving alongside your roll ups.

Step 7: Bake

Cover your baking dish with foil (spraying the under side with cooking spray helps prevent sticking). Bake for 30 minutes then uncover and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until cheese is melted and lightly browned.

Enjoy your delicious Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups!

How to Serve Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups

These Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can pair them with various sides or sauces to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together fresh greens like arugula, spinach, and romaine with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: Classic Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and Parmesan adds a savory touch to the meal.

Drizzled with Extra Marinara

• Extra Marinara Sauce: Serve additional warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling over the roll ups for extra flavor.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley Garnish: Chopped fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top adds a burst of color and freshness.

With Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread Sticks: Warm, buttery garlic bread sticks complement the dish perfectly, providing a delightful crunch.

Accompanied by Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Lightly seasoned and grilled vegetables offer a colorful and nutritious side.

With a Creamy Dip

• Spinach Artichoke Dip: A creamy spinach artichoke dip served as an appetizer pairs well with the lasagna rolls for those who love cheesy indulgence.

How to Perfect Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups

Creating perfect Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups is easy with these simple tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Boldly Season Your Filling: Enhance the flavor of your cheese mixture by adding garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes for extra zest.
• Use Fresh Spinach: If possible, use fresh spinach instead of frozen. This gives a vibrant color and fresher taste.
• Layer Sauce Generously: Ensure each layer has enough marinara sauce to prevent dryness. This keeps your roll ups moist and flavorful.
• Preheat Your Oven Properly: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden cheese on top.
• Let Them Rest Before Serving: Allow the roll ups to sit for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps them set up nicely for easier serving.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different kinds of cheeses like feta or goat cheese into your filling for unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups

Pairing side dishes with your Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus adds a healthy crunch alongside the rich flavors of lasagna.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing palate cleanser.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli offers a nutritious side that complements the flavors without overpowering them.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs make for an exciting appetizer or side dish option.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables creates an inviting spread that pairs beautifully with lasagna rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Overcooking noodles: Cooking lasagna noodles too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente pasta to ensure better rolling and texture.
• Not draining spinach properly: Excess moisture from the spinach can make your filling watery. Always squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing with cheese.
• Skipping the sauce layer: Failing to add marinara sauce at the bottom can lead to the roll ups sticking to the dish. Make sure to spread sauce evenly for easy serving.
• Using low-quality cheese: Using inferior cheeses will not provide the rich flavor you want. Opt for high-quality ricotta and mozzarella for a creamy filling.
• Not covering while baking: Baking without foil can lead to drying out your roll ups. Cover with foil initially, then uncover towards the end for a golden finish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for best quality.

Freezing Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups

• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covered, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups?

Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups are a creative twist on traditional lasagna, featuring rolled noodles filled with a cheesy spinach mixture and topped with marinara sauce.

Can I make Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer before baking.

How do I customize my Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups?

Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, or switch up the cheese types based on your preference.

Are Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They make an excellent meal prep option as they store well and reheat easily.

What sides pair well with Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups?

Consider serving a fresh salad or garlic bread alongside your roll ups for a complete meal.

Conclusion

These Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups offer a delightful way to enjoy classic lasagna flavors without all the layering hassle. They’re perfect for meal prep and can be customized with various ingredients. Give them a try today!

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