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Cheesy Spinach Ricotta Lasagna Roll Ups - Elegant Comfort Food Made Easy

Cheesy Spinach & Ricotta Lasagna Roll Ups

Czarryy
Classic lasagna gets a creative twist with these rolled-up portions of pasta filled with creamy ricotta, spinach, and herbs, baked in marinara and topped with golden melted cheese. Elegant enough for entertaining, yet simple for a comforting weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course, Pasta Bake
Cuisine Comfort Food, Italian-Inspired
Servings 6
Calories 395 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot for noodles
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Large casserole dish
  • Cheese grater
  • Parchment-lined sheet pan (for noodles)
  • Aluminum foil

Ingredients
  

  • 15 lasagna noodles
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 8–10 ounces frozen spinach, thawed and drained thoroughly
  • 3 cups marinara sauce, divided
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

  • Preheat Oven
    Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish.
  • Cook the Pasta
    Boil lasagna noodles in salted water until just shy of al dente. Drain and arrange flat in a single layer on parchment to prevent sticking.
  • Make the Filling
    In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, ½ cup mozzarella, parmesan, egg, and parsley. Press excess water from spinach using paper towels or cheesecloth, then crumble it into the ricotta mixture. Season with salt and pepper, mixing until smooth.
  • Assemble the Dish
    Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the casserole dish. On each noodle, spread 2–3 tablespoons of the ricotta-spinach filling. Roll the noodles and place them upright in the dish so the spiral layers are visible.
  • Top with Sauce & Cheese
    Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the rolls and sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella. Cover the dish with foil.
  • Bake
    Bake covered for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  • Rest & Serve
    Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the rolls to set. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

Pro Tips & Variations

  • Different cheeses: Substitute part of the ricotta with mascarpone or cottage cheese for a different texture.
  • Add protein: Mix shredded chicken, ground turkey, or Italian sausage into the filling.
  • Vegetarian boost: Add sautéed mushrooms or roasted zucchini to the spinach mixture.
  • Presentation choice: Roll seam-side down for a classic look, or stand upright to showcase the spiral layers.
  • Make ahead: Assemble the rolls up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Keyword cheesy pasta bake, Italian pasta dish, lasagna roll ups, spinach ricotta pasta, vegetarian lasagna