Easy Lasagna Roll Ups for Cozy Dinners

If you’re in search of a comforting dinner that brings a fresh twist to a classic Italian favorite, look no further than these easy Lasagna Roll Ups. This dish combines tender pasta rolled around a savory filling of plant-based cheese and smoked turkey bacon, creating a meal that is both cozy and satisfying. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, these roll ups are a versatile, flavorful way to enjoy the heartiness of traditional lasagna without the fuss of layering a whole pan.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: Easy-to-assemble roll ups save time and effort in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of plant-based cheese and smoked turkey bacon offers rich, smoky flavors that everyone will enjoy.
• Perfect Portions: Individual roll ups make serving and portion control a breeze, ideal for any size gathering.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients to suit dietary needs or preferences while maintaining deliciousness.
• Cozy Comfort: This warm, oven-baked dish is perfect for chilly evenings or when you want a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet flavorful ingredients makes these Lasagna Roll Ups both straightforward and exciting. Each addition complements the others, delivering a balance of textures and rich tastes that turn this dish into a comforting classic made new.

• Lasagna noodles (regular or whole wheat): Cooked until just tender, they form the perfect wrap for the filling.
• Plant-based cheese: Smooth and creamy, this adds richness and melts beautifully inside the rolls.
• Smoked turkey bacon: Adds a hearty, smoky bite to the filling, making it savory and satisfying.
• Marinara sauce (natural): A vibrant tomato sauce that brightens the dish with fresh herbs and tangy sweetness.
• Spinach: Fresh leaves add color, nutrients, and a mild earthiness to the filling.
• Garlic and onion: Sautéed to release their aromatic flavors and deepen the dish’s savory foundation.
• Natural gelling agent: Used in the sauce to create the perfect consistency and hold without heaviness.
• Fresh basil and oregano: Infuse the dish with authentic Italian freshness and fragrance.
• Olive oil: For sautéing and adding smoothness to the sauce and filling.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.

Variations for Lasagna Roll Ups

Feel free to adapt this recipe to your taste or dietary needs. Lasagna Roll Ups are incredibly versatile, so you can swap ingredients or add extras to suit what you have on hand or prefer to eat.

• Vegetarian Delight: Omit the smoked turkey bacon and add mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a hearty, meat-free version.
• Spicy Kick: Include red chili flakes or chopped jalapeños in the filling for a bit of heat.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with thyme, rosemary, or parsley for different aromatic profiles.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based cheese and skip any animal products for a fully vegan roll up.
• Extra Cheesy: Add a layer of ricotta-style plant-based cheese for creaminess, or sprinkle more plant-based mozzarella on top.

How to Make Lasagna Roll Ups

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions, making sure they are tender yet firm enough to roll. Drain carefully and lay them flat on a clean towel to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic and diced onion until translucent. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in chopped smoked turkey bacon, allowing its smokiness to blend well. Mix in plant-based cheese and season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Stir gently until everything is combined and warmed through.

Step 3: Assemble the Roll Ups

Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto each noodle. Spread it evenly but leave a border for rolling. Carefully roll the noodles from one end to the other, creating neat, tight cylinders that hold the delicious filling securely.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce and Bake

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the roll ups seam side down in a single layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, making sure each roll is well covered. Sprinkle additional plant-based cheese on top for a bubbly, golden finish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Pro Tips for Making Lasagna Roll Ups

• Cook noodles al dente: This prevents breakage when rolling and ensures a tender texture after baking.
• Use room temperature cheese: This helps achieve an even filling that’s easier to spread and roll.
• Don’t overfill: Keep the filling thin enough to roll easily without tearing the noodles.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to set for a few minutes makes slicing and serving cleaner.
• Cover while baking: Using foil initially helps the roll ups steam gently before browning the cheese on top uncovered.

How to Serve Lasagna Roll Ups

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley adds a pop of green and fresh flavor. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few twists of black pepper really elevate the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

Complement the hearty roll ups with a crisp green salad dressed in apple cider vinegar and olive oil or a side of garlic-roasted vegetables. A warm soup or crusty bread also pairs beautifully to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the roll ups individually on plates topped with a dollop of plant-based ricotta and fresh basil leaves for a restaurant-worthy touch. Or arrange them side by side in a large platter for family-style sharing that invites conversation and smiles around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Lasagna Roll Ups in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They retain their flavors and can easily be reheated without drying out.

Freezing

These roll ups freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually for a couple of hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, usually around 15-20 minutes. For a quicker option, cover them with a damp towel and microwave in intervals to prevent drying.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free noodles for the roll ups?

Absolutely. Gluten-free lasagna noodles work well as a substitute, just be careful when rolling as they can be more fragile.

Is smoked turkey bacon necessary in the recipe?

No, you can omit it or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or seasoned tofu for a vegetarian version without sacrificing flavor.

Can I prepare Lasagna Roll Ups ahead of time before baking?

Yes, you can assemble the roll ups and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking, which makes meal prep easier.

What is the best way to prevent noodles from sticking?

Lay cooked noodles flat on a lightly oiled baking sheet or parchment paper and avoid stacking them to keep them from sticking together.

How do I make the filling creamier?

Incorporate a bit more plant-based cheese or add a spoonful of plain plant-based yogurt or tofu-based ricotta for extra creaminess in the filling.

Final Thoughts

These easy Lasagna Roll Ups combine the best of comfort food with a fresh, approachable style that anyone can prepare and enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe offers warmth, flavor, and a little something special on the dinner table. I can’t wait for you to make them and love this cozy classic in a new, delightful form.

Related Posts

• Soft Pumpkin Dinner Rolls You’ll Crave
• Easy Slow Cooker Korean BBQ Chicken Recipe
• Slow Cooker Greek Lamb Shanks for Easy Meals

Print