Lasagna rolls are a delicious twist on the classic lasagna dish. These individual rolls are filled with a rich ricotta and spinach mixture, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. They make for an elegant presentation and are perfect for dinner parties or a family meal.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preparing the Noodles:
- Boil the Noodles:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a baking sheet or clean kitchen towel. Drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Preparing the Filling:
- Mix the Ricotta Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped spinach, minced garlic, dried basil, and dried oregano.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix until well combined.
Assembling the Lasagna Rolls:
- Spread the Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Take one lasagna noodle and spread a thin layer of the ricotta mixture evenly over the entire length of the noodle.
- Roll the Noodles:
- Starting at one end, carefully roll the noodle up, encasing the filling inside.
- Repeat with the remaining noodles and filling.
Baking the Lasagna Rolls:
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Arrange the Rolls:
- Place the lasagna rolls seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the rolls.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the rolls.
- Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving:
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
These lasagna rolls can be paired with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this Italian classic with a modern twist!
