Go Back
Homemade Pesto Lasagna Roll Ups recipe photo

Pesto Lasagna Roll Ups

This Pesto Lasagna Roll Ups are a delightful twist on a classic! Creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting, they're perfect for family dinners.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

For the Roll Ups:
  • 12 pieces Lasagna noodles
  • 5 tablespoons Unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup All-purpose flour
  • 4 cups Whole milk
  • 2 cups Ricotta cheese
  • 1 large Egg
  • 1 clove Garlic minced
  • 10 ounces Frozen spinach thawed and drained
  • 1/2 cup Basil pesto
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 pinch Crushed red pepper flakes
  • 2 cups Shredded mozzarella cheese

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking Dish
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Oven mitts

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions:
  1. Step 1: Prepare the Noodles - Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once it’s boiling, add the lasagna noodles and cook until al dente. Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to cool.
  2. Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce - In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour until it forms a paste. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add a pinch of nutmeg and salt to taste. Stir until thickened, then remove from heat.
  3. Step 3: Prepare the Filling - In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, garlic, spinach, and basil pesto. Mix until smooth, then fold in parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Step 4: Assemble the Roll Ups - Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Take one noodle, spread about 1/4 cup of filling over it, roll it up and place seam-side down in the dish. Repeat with remaining noodles.
  5. Step 5: Top with Sauce and Cheese - Pour the remaining béchamel sauce over the top. Sprinkle remaining parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
  6. Step 6: Bake - Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy - Allow the roll-ups to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or additional parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • You can freeze unbaked roll-ups for up to 3 months.
  • Try substituting ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter filling.