Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups

These Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups are a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, offering a creamy and cheesy filling without the hassle of layering. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, these roll-ups are not only tasty but also easy to prepare. You can make them ahead of time, making them ideal for busy schedules. With a flavorful mix of cheeses and spinach, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you’ll have dinner ready in no time.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a rich cheese experience.
• Versatile Dish: Suitable for various occasions, from casual family meals to festive gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare in advance and bake when ready to serve, saving you time.
• Meatless Delight: This dish is perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking to enjoy a lighter meal.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process much smoother.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Essential for boiling lasagna noodles evenly.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining your flavorful cheese filling.
• Baking dish: Keeps your roll-ups together while they bake to perfection.

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.

• 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
• 25 ounce jar marinara sauce

How to Make Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups

Step 1: Boil the Noodles

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions until they are al dente.

1. Drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water.
2. Lay the noodles out in a single layer on parchment paper to cool and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Spinach Filling

While the noodles are cooling, prepare your spinach filling.

1. Thaw the frozen spinach in a microwave-safe bowl using the defrost setting or low power.
2. Once thawed, wrap the spinach in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out excess moisture.
3. In a large mixing bowl, crack the egg and beat it slightly with a fork.
4. Add the spinach, ricotta cheese, all but 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper into the bowl. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Roll Ups

Now it’s time to assemble your Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups.

1. Preheat your oven to 350° F.
2. Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce in the bottom of your baking dish.
3. Take each noodle and spread approximately ¼ cup of the cheese and spinach mixture evenly over it.
4. Roll up each noodle tightly and place seam side down in the baking dish.

Step 4: Bake Your Dish

Finish off by adding sauce and baking.

1. Spread any remaining marinara sauce over the tops of your roll ups.
2. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.
3. Cover with foil (you can spray foil with cooking spray first).
4. 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 as a comforting meal that everyone will love!

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 enjoy them in various ways that enhance their flavors and make your meal more delightful.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.

Pair with a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: Serve with a light mixed green salad tossed in a simple vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Spice It Up

• Red Pepper Flakes: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals.

Offer Extra Marinara Sauce

• Dipping Sauce: Serve additional marinara sauce on the side for dipping, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Include Garlic Bread

• Toasty Goodness: Serve with warm garlic bread to complement the cheesy goodness of the roll-ups.

Add Grated Cheese on Top

• Parmesan or Mozzarella: Finish with extra grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese before serving for an indulgent touch.

How to Perfect Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups

Perfecting your Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups takes just a few thoughtful steps. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out fantastic every time.

• Boldly Season Your Filling: Don’t shy away from seasoning the cheese mixture; add herbs like oregano or thyme for extra flavor.
• Carefully Cook Noodles: Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente so they maintain their structure while rolling.
• Generously Layer Sauce: Ensure you use enough marinara sauce both at the bottom and on top to keep the rolls moist and flavorful.
• Evenly Distribute Filling: Spread the cheese filling evenly across each noodle for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Cover Properly While Baking: Use foil to cover while baking initially to trap steam, then uncover it for browning towards the end.
• Allow to Rest Before Serving: Let the roll-ups sit for about 5 minutes after baking; this helps them set and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups

To complement your Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups, consider pairing them with these delightful side dishes. Each option adds variety and enhances your meal experience.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons pairs beautifully.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds a healthy touch.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide a comforting, hearty side that balances the dish.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious green addition that’s easy to prepare.
5. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing appetizer.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil gives a delicious starter option before the main dish.
7. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with spinach and cheese can be a great finger food accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups, small errors can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Bold noodles: Not cooking the lasagna noodles al dente can make them too soft and difficult to handle. Follow the package instructions closely for perfect texture.
• Bold spinach moisture: Failing to squeeze out excess moisture from the spinach can result in a watery filling. Always wrap and drain your spinach well before mixing it in.
• Bold layering sauce: Skipping the marinara sauce at the bottom of the dish can cause the roll ups to stick. Ensure you spread an even layer on the bottom for easy serving.
• Bold cheese mixture: Overlooking the importance of mixing cheeses properly can lead to uneven flavor. Stir thoroughly so every bite is flavorful and creamy.
• Bold baking time: Not covering the dish initially may result in overcooked edges. Use foil during part of baking to keep everything moist before browning.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups

• To freeze, place roll ups in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until warm, checking halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat them on medium-low heat in a skillet, covered with a lid, for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to make Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups ahead of time?

You can prepare these roll ups entirely in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

Can I customize my Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, or change up the cheese blend according to your taste preferences.

How do I know when my Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups are done?

The roll ups are done when the cheese is melted and slightly browned on top. A bubbly sauce also indicates they’re ready.

Are Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups kid-friendly?

Yes! These roll ups are usually a hit with kids due to their cheesy filling and fun presentation. You can also involve kids in rolling them up!

Conclusion

Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups offer a delightful twist on traditional lasagna that is both simple and satisfying. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for meal prep or impressing guests at dinner!

---