Why You’ll Love Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe
These spinach lasagna roll ups are easy to prepare yet impressive enough for serving guests. The individual portions make serving simple and neat, while the creamy ricotta and spinach filling delivers a rich, satisfying flavor. It’s a great vegetarian option that doesn’t compromise on taste, and it can be made ahead of time for convenience. The combination of herbs, cheese, and marinara creates a classic Italian-inspired dish that feels both cozy and special.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
12 lasagna sheets
1 (10-ounce bag) frozen chopped spinach, thawed
1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, grated
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped, plus more for garnish
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon salt, plus more for pasta water
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
1 ½ cups prepared marinara sauce
⅓ cup low moisture mozzarella, grated
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F and bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles until al dente, about 8 minutes.
While the pasta cooks, prepare the filling. Thoroughly drain the spinach, squeezing out as much excess water as possible. In a medium bowl, combine the spinach with ricotta cheese, Parmesan, egg, garlic, basil, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.
Spread about ½ cup of marinara sauce across the bottom of a 9 by 13-inch baking dish.
Drain the cooked noodles and lay them out on a clean surface. Spread 2 to 3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture evenly over each noodle, then roll each one into a spiral. Place each roll seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with all noodles.
Top the roll ups with the remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle evenly with mozzarella cheese. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with extra basil before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Variations
You can add cooked ground beef or sausage to the marinara sauce for a meatier version. Swap spinach with kale for a slightly different texture and flavor. For a richer filling, mix in shredded mozzarella or provolone with the ricotta. You can also use cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lighter option. Adding sautéed mushrooms or zucchini to the filling brings extra depth and nutrition.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm at 350°F until heated through. For quicker reheating, microwave individual portions in short intervals until hot. These roll ups can also be frozen before or after baking for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach works well. Cook it down first and remove as much moisture as possible before mixing into the filling.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the roll ups and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
Do I need to cook the noodles first?
Yes, the noodles must be cooked until al dente so they are flexible enough to roll.
Can I freeze spinach lasagna roll ups?
Yes, they freeze well either before or after baking. Just store them in a tightly sealed container.
What type of marinara sauce should I use?
Any good-quality store-bought or homemade marinara sauce will work for this recipe.
How do I prevent watery filling?
Make sure to thoroughly drain and squeeze the spinach to remove excess moisture.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free lasagna noodles.
What can I serve with this dish?
A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with these roll ups.
Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely, you can add extra mozzarella or even some provolone for a cheesier result.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The dish is ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
Conclusion
Spinach lasagna roll ups are a delicious and versatile dish that combines classic flavors with a fun presentation. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe offers comfort, convenience, and satisfying taste in every bite.
