Skinny Lasagna Rolls
If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort food with a healthy twist, Skinny Lasagna Rolls are the answer. These delightful rolls are packed with flavor and nutrients, making them a perfect meal for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner with friends. With layers of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and tangy marinara sauce, this recipe will satisfy your cravings without the extra calories. Let’s dive into the details!
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
There’s something about lasagna that brings people together. It’s warm, cheesy, and full of flavor. But traditional lasagna can be heavy and caloric. That’s where Skinny Lasagna Rolls come in. They offer all the classic flavors you love while being lighter and healthier. The individual rolls make for beautiful plating, and they’re easy to serve, making them a hit for any gathering. Plus, they’re packed with spinach, so you can feel good about sneaking in those greens!
Ingredient Rundown
To make Skinny Lasagna Rolls, you will need the following ingredients:
- 10 whole wheat lasagna noodles – Cooked to al dente (about 8 minutes) and well drained for a hearty yet healthy base.
- 24 ounces marinara sauce – Choose a no sugar added jar for a healthier option.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing garlic and adding flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves – Minced, to enhance the savory taste.
- 6 cups baby spinach – Loosely packed and chopped well for a nutritious filling.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – Low-fat ricotta keeps it creamy without the calories.
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella – Part-skim, shredded for that ooey-gooey texture.
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese – Low-fat, small-curd to complement the ricotta.
- 1 egg white – Acts as a binder for the filling.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – For a hint of Italian flavor.
- Kosher or sea salt – To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – For a touch of spice.
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese – Grated, for that finishing touch.
Recommended Tools
To prepare your Skinny Lasagna Rolls, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:
- Large pot – For boiling the lasagna noodles.
- Skillet – To sauté the garlic and spinach.
- Baking dish – Where your rolls will be baked to perfection.
- Mixing bowl – For combining the cheese filling.
- Spoon or spatula – For spreading and rolling the noodles.
Skinny Lasagna Rolls Made Stepwise
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Start by cooking the whole wheat lasagna noodles in a large pot of boiling water until they are al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain them well and lay them flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Sauté the Spinach
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, mozzarella, egg white, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir in the sautéed spinach and garlic mixture until well combined. This creamy filling is the heart of your Skinny Lasagna Rolls.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Take one lasagna noodle and spread a generous amount of the cheese mixture along the length of the noodle. Roll it up tightly and place it seam side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining noodles.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese
Once all rolls are in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top for added flavor and a golden crust.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
What to Use Instead
If you’re out of a specific ingredient or looking to make substitutions, consider the following options:
- Noodles: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles if you prefer.
- Ricotta cheese: Substitute with mascarpone or a dairy-free alternative.
- Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard can be used for a different flavor.
- Marinara sauce: Homemade tomato sauce can work beautifully as well.
What I Learned Testing
When testing this Skinny Lasagna Rolls recipe, I discovered a few key points:
- Don’t overcook the noodles; they should be al dente for best results.
- Using low-fat cheeses doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor; the combination of ricotta and mozzarella is still incredibly satisfying.
- Feel free to experiment with additional herbs or spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
- These rolls can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking, making them a perfect meal prep option.
Prep Ahead & Store
If you want to get a jumpstart on your Skinny Lasagna Rolls, here are some tips:
- Assemble the rolls and store them in the baking dish covered with foil in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Cooked rolls can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
- You can also freeze the assembled rolls before baking. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe dish and cover well. They can be baked directly from frozen; just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Skinny Lasagna Rolls FAQs
Can I make these lasagna rolls vegetarian?
Absolutely! These Skinny Lasagna Rolls are already vegetarian-friendly as they are filled with spinach and cheese. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms if you like.
How can I make these rolls spicier?
If you prefer a kick of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the cheese filling or using a spicier marinara sauce. You can also mix in some chopped jalapeños for an extra punch.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations based on your preferences. Goat cheese or feta can add a unique flavor to the filling.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
Your Skinny Lasagna Rolls are done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top, and the sauce is hot. Use a fork to check one roll to ensure it’s heated through.
Because You Liked This
If you enjoyed making Skinny Lasagna Rolls, you might love these recipes as well:
- Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
- Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
- Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
- Eggplant Parmesan
Next Steps
Now that you’ve learned how to create delicious Skinny Lasagna Rolls, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the process, and savor each bite of this healthier version of a classic dish!
Skinny Lasagna Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cooking the whole wheat lasagna noodles in a large pot of boiling water until they are al dente (about 8 minutes). Drain them well and lay them flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, cottage cheese, mozzarella, egg white, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir in the sautéed spinach and garlic mixture until well combined.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Take one lasagna noodle and spread a generous amount of the cheese mixture along the length of the noodle. Roll it up tightly and place it seam side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining noodles.
- Once all rolls are in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
Notes
- Don't overcook the noodles; they should be al dente for best results.
- Using low-fat cheeses doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor; the combination of ricotta and mozzarella is still incredibly satisfying.
- Feel free to experiment with additional herbs or spices to customize the flavor.
