Lasagna Rolls: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish
Lasagna is a beloved Italian dish that combines layers of pasta, rich cheeses, and flavorful sauces. But for those who want to try something a bit different, lasagna rolls offer an exciting twist! Instead of layering the ingredients in a baking dish, each lasagna noodle is filled, rolled up, and topped with sauce and cheese for a unique, satisfying meal. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even a comforting night in, these lasagna rolls bring the taste of traditional lasagna with an extra touch of elegance. This recipe will guide you through preparing, filling, and rolling each noodle to create a beautifully presented dish that’s sure to impress.
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups spinach, chopped (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained if using frozen)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a large baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil. Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of the dish, spreading it evenly to prevent the rolls from sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente (about 8–10 minutes).
- Drain and rinse the noodles under cool water to stop the cooking process. Lay them flat on a sheet of parchment paper or a clean towel to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, and mix until smooth and evenly combined.
- Stir in the chopped spinach, ensuring it’s distributed throughout the filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna Rolls
- Lay a lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of the ricotta filling evenly over the noodle, leaving about half an inch at the edges.
- Carefully roll the noodle from one end to the other, creating a tight roll. Place the roll seam-side down in the baking dish on top of the marinara sauce.
- Repeat with the remaining noodles and filling, lining up the rolls in the dish.
Step 5: Top with Sauce and Cheese
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the lasagna rolls, making sure each roll is covered in sauce to prevent drying.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the rolls.
Step 6: Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the rolls moist. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the lasagna rolls cool slightly. For an added touch of freshness, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Serve hot, and enjoy the blend of creamy cheese, savory marinara sauce, and tender pasta!
Lasagna rolls offer a creative way to enjoy a classic dish in individual portions. This recipe showcases the traditional flavors of lasagna in an accessible, fun format that appeals to all ages. Each bite combines creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and hearty marinara, all wrapped in tender pasta, making for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re making dinner for family or guests, these lasagna rolls are sure to become a favorite for their beautiful presentation and comforting flavors. Enjoy this delightful twist on a classic, and let it bring a touch of Italian warmth to your table!