Lasagna Rolls Recipe With Spinach Ricotta Ribbon

I know how challenging it can be to whip up a delicious meal after a long day, especially one everyone will love. But imagine serving individual portions of tender pasta, creamy spinach ricotta, and bubbling, golden cheese, all drenched in rich marinara. This lasagna rolls recipe with spinach ricotta ribbon is your family’s new favorite, transforming a classic into an easy, hearty, and satisfying dinner. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need quick healthy meals or for smart meal prep on Sunday, simplifying your cooking.

Ingredients You’ll Need (with Smart Picks)

Gather your ingredients for a delightful lasagna rolls recipe with spinach ricotta ribbon that makes for great family-friendly dining.

• Lasagna Noodles: About 12-15 oven-ready or regular noodles (I find 12 is usually enough for a 9×13 inch dish), cooked to al dente for flexibility.
• Creamy Ricotta Cheese: 15 oz (425g) full-fat ricotta cheese for a rich, creamy texture (or part-skim if you prefer a lighter option).
• Fresh Spinach: 10 oz (280g) fresh spinach, washed and thoroughly dried (or thawed and squeezed very dry frozen spinach, a great shortcut if that’s what’s on hand).
• Marinara Sauce: 24-30 oz (680-850g) your favorite jarred marinara sauce, or a quick homemade batch for depth of flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: 2-3 cups (225-340g) shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for a generous topping that browns beautifully.
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus a little extra for serving, for a salty, umami kick.
• Egg: 1 large egg, to bind the filling and ensure it stays together inside the lasagna rolls.
• Flavor Boosters: 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste for a robust, classic Italian profile.

Upgrade Options & Substitutions

Choose organic or locally sourced ingredients for enhanced flavor. Opt for low-sodium marinara for health-conscious choices. For a protein-packed lasagna rolls recipe, add ½ lb cooked ground turkey or Italian sausage. Easily swap with gluten-free lasagna noodles. Use plant-based ricotta and mozzarella alternatives for dairy-free.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Noodles

Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes; they should be pliable but firm. Lay them flat on parchment paper or a clean surface to prevent sticking as they cool slightly.

Step 2: Create Ricotta Spinach Filling

In a large bowl, combine 15 oz ricotta cheese, 10 oz squeezed dry spinach, 1 large egg, ½ cup shredded mozzarella, ½ cup parmesan cheese, 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until the filling is uniformly creamy and well combined. This creamy spinach ricotta filling is the heart of our lasagna rolls recipe.

Step 3: Assemble Lasagna Rolls

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce (about ½ cup) on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Lay out a cooked lasagna noodle, spread evenly with about ¼ cup of the spinach ricotta mixture, then sprinkle with a tablespoon of shredded mozzarella. To assemble your individual lasagna rolls, I try to make sure my noodles are just pliable. If your noodles are tearing, they might be overcooked; try cooking the next batch for slightly less time.

Step 4: Roll & Arrange

Carefully roll each noodle tightly into a spiral, ensuring the filling stays tucked in. Place each lasagna roll seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining noodles and filling until the dish is full of delicious lasagna rolls.

Step 5: Sauce & Bake

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are well covered and bathed in flavor. Top generously with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, until gently bubbling. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly, golden brown, and delightfully melted. Soon, you’ll have a beautifully baked dish of lasagna rolls with spinach ricotta ribbon.

Quick Shortcuts & Flavor Twists

Shortcut: Use pre-washed spinach and quality jarred marinara to save time. Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Make it Meaty: Incorporate pre-cooked ground beef or Italian sausage into the ricotta mixture. These tweaks ensure your lasagna rolls are always a hit.

Best Times to Make It & Serving Suggestions

This lasagna rolls recipe with spinach ricotta ribbon isn’t just a meal; it’s a versatile solution for your busiest days and special occasions.

• Ideal for meal prep: Prepare a big batch of these spinach ricotta lasagna rolls on the weekend for easy, delicious dinners throughout the week.
• Perfect for busy weeknights: A satisfying, less-fussy alternative to traditional lasagna that bakes up quickly.
• Entertaining: Lasagna rolls offer elegant, individual servings, making them great for guests or potlucks.

Serving Pairings, Storage & Reheating

• Serving: Pair with warm garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Toppings: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, a drizzle of good olive oil, or extra grated parmesan for a gourmet touch.
• Storage: Store cooled lasagna rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked or unbaked lasagna rolls for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Microwave individual rolls for 1-2 minutes or reheat a larger batch in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.

Why Lasagna Rolls with Spinach Ricotta Fit Healthy Living

Embrace a healthier lifestyle with this thoughtful twist on a classic. The lasagna rolls with spinach ricotta offer a delicious way to enjoy wholesome ingredients.

• Portion Control: Individual lasagna rolls make managing serving sizes easy, which can support easy weight loss meals.
• Nutrient-Rich Spinach: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to quick healthy meals.
• Protein-Packed Ricotta: Provides essential protein for satiety and muscle health, making it a great protein dinner recipe.
• Wholesome & Satisfying: With smart ingredient choices, these are truly among the best meal prep dishes that are both nourishing and delicious.

Everyday Advantages for Busy People

For those juggling busy schedules, this lasagna rolls recipe is a lifesaver, blending convenience with deliciousness seamlessly.

• Time-Saving: Much quicker to assemble and bake than a full lasagna; ideal for make-ahead meal prep.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with common, affordable ingredients for family meals without breaking the bank.
• Versatile & Family-Friendly: Easily customizable to suit picky eaters or adapt to different dietary needs, ensuring everyone enjoys their dinner.

Extra Tips, Flavor Boosters & Adjustments

Getting the best results from your spinach ricotta ribbon lasagna rolls is easy with a few simple tricks.

• Pro Tip: Ensure your spinach is extremely well-drained (especially frozen) to prevent a watery filling. I always give mine an extra squeeze with paper towels after thawing.
• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Aim for al dente so they are pliable enough to roll without tearing.
• For extra creaminess: Blend a small amount of cream cheese into the ricotta mixture for an even richer texture.
• Spice Adjustment: Adjust garlic, onion, and red pepper flakes to your family’s preference for a kick or milder flavor.
• Allergy-Conscious: For a nut-free cheesy flavor without dairy, nutritional yeast can be a good addition to the filling.

Reader FAQs About Lasagna Rolls with Spinach Ricotta Ribbon

Q: Is this lasagna rolls recipe good for a low-carb diet?

As written with pasta noodles, this lasagna rolls recipe is not low-carb. However, you can make a delicious low-carb version by substituting the lasagna noodles with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant ribbons, creating tasty spinach ricotta ribbon rolls that fit a healthier eating plan.

Q: Can I meal prep lasagna rolls with spinach ricotta for the week?

Absolutely! These spinach ricotta lasagna rolls are fantastic for meal prep. You can bake them ahead and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days, or even freeze unbaked rolls for up to 3 months to bake later for a quick, wholesome dinner option. I often prepare a double batch on Sundays.

Q: How do I prevent my lasagna rolls from unrolling during baking?

To keep your lasagna rolls with spinach ricotta intact, make sure to roll them fairly tightly. Always place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. The marinara sauce at the bottom of the dish also helps to hold them in place as they bake and creates a secure bed.

Q: Can I add meat to this lasagna rolls recipe?

Yes, you certainly can! Brown about 1/2 pound (225g) of ground beef, turkey, or Italian sausage. Drain any excess fat, then stir it directly into the spinach ricotta filling for a heartier, protein-rich meal. This addition makes a wonderful protein dinner recipe.

Q: What kind of spinach is best for spinach ricotta lasagna rolls?

Fresh spinach is generally preferred for its vibrant flavor and texture. If using fresh, ensure it’s wilted and then thoroughly squeezed dry. Frozen spinach also works well, just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much water as possible before mixing it into the ricotta filling.

Q: Where can I buy high-quality lasagna roll ingredients online?

Many online grocery services and specialty food retailers offer high-quality ingredients like organic ricotta, fresh spinach, and artisanal marinara sauces. Check reputable online vendors or your preferred local grocery store’s online delivery platform for premium options for your next lasagna rolls recipe.

Conclusion

These easy spinach ricotta pasta rolls are a delightful, comforting meal and a family favorite for healthy eating that my kids always ask for. Save this convenient recipe on Pinterest for your next family dinner inspiration and easy meal prep.

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