Are you ready to indulge in a dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with the comforting embrace of melted cheese? Look no further than our Spinach Four Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups! These delightful rolls are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious way to sneak some greens into your meal. With layers of creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a touch of savory Parmesan, each bite is a cheesy masterpiece that will leave your taste buds singing. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive into our step-by-step guide and discover how to create this mouthwatering dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 8 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and lay flat on a clean kitchen towel to cool and prevent sticking.
- While noodles are cooking, wash fresh spinach and pat dry with paper towels. Roughly chop the spinach leaves into small pieces.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Spread each lasagna noodle flat and evenly distribute the cheese and spinach mixture along the length of each noodle, leaving a small border at the edges.
- Carefully roll up each noodle from one end to the other, creating a tight spiral. Place the roll-ups seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the top of the roll-ups, ensuring they are mostly covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to allow cheese to brown slightly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Cooked Noodles: Ensure your lasagna noodles are cooked al dente—this means they should be firm to the bite. This will prevent them from becoming mushy when baked with the sauce.
- Fresh Spinach: For the best flavor, opt for fresh spinach over frozen. Make sure to wash and dry it thoroughly before chopping to avoid excess moisture in your filling.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Adding a blend of ricotta, goat cheese, or even a hint of blue cheese can elevate the flavor profile even further.
- Layering the Sauce: When pouring the marinara sauce over the roll-ups, ensure they are well-covered to keep them moist during baking. This will also help the cheese melt beautifully.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the lasagna roll-ups to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps them set and makes serving easier, preventing the filling from spilling out.
- Garnish for Flair: Elevate your dish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a few basil leaves on top before serving. Not only does it add flavor, but it also makes for a beautiful presentation!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 55mg
