Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups

Name: Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 9 lasagna noodles; 2 cups ricotta cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 cup zucchini, finely chopped; 1 cup mushrooms, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Highlighted under: Oven-Fresh Wonders

I love making Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups because they're not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more veggies into my diet. Each bite is a delightful combination of creamy ricotta, savory marinara, and fresh vegetables, all wrapped in tender lasagna noodles. These roll ups are perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner. I enjoy experimenting with different vegetables based on the season, making each batch unique. Plus, they're so fun to assemble, turning cooking into a creative activity!

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:29:35.748Z

When I first tried my hand at making Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups, I was amazed at how easily I could create something that looked so impressive. The key is to layer the filling just right; I found that a mixture of ricotta, spinach, and herbs not only adds flavor but also a creamy texture that balances the dish beautifully.

As I perfected the recipe, I discovered that lightly steaming the lasagna noodles before rolling them makes them more pliable. This simple trick ensures that my roll ups hold together, making them visually appealing and easier to serve. The satisfaction of serving these to my family is truly rewarding!

Why You'll Love These Roll Ups
Rich flavor from roasted vegetables seasoned to perfection
Creamy ricotta filling that complements the texture of the noodles
A fun and interactive dish that everyone can participate in making

The Importance of Vegetable Variety

One of the beautiful aspects of Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups is the versatility of the vegetables you can include. Seasonal produce not only enhances the flavor but also boosts nutrition. For instance, substituting summer squash for zucchini or adding roasted eggplant can create an entirely new flavor profile. Experimenting with different vegetables can also affect the texture; heartier vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes will give a more robust bite, while leafy greens will offer a soft, fresh finish.

When deciding which vegetables to use, consider their water content. High-water vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers can release excess moisture during baking. To counter this, pre-sauté them until they are tender and some moisture evaporates. This technique ensures that your roll ups don’t become soggy, allowing the rich flavors to shine through with each bite.

Making Ahead and Freezing

These lasagna roll ups are fantastic for meal prepping. You can assemble them a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator covered tightly with plastic wrap. If you're planning to freeze, assemble the roll ups without baking, and wrap them well in foil or freezer-safe containers. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed—the flavors will be just as delightful as when freshly made.

If you're freezing the roll ups, consider adding a bit more marinara sauce on top before freezing. This extra layer prevents the noodles from becoming dry during the freezing process. Additionally, a sprinkle of mozzarella can go on top or remain until just before baking, which allows for that golden, bubbly finish when reheated.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving these lasagna roll ups, a simple garnish can elevate the dish. Fresh basil or parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's aroma and taste. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can provide a flavorful contrast to the creamy ricotta and savory marinara. If you're feeling adventurous, mixing in a bit of red pepper flake into the marinara before pouring it over the roll ups can add a lovely heat.

For a complete meal, pair these roll ups with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagna roll ups while providing a refreshing crunch. Alternatively, serving them alongside roasted vegetables keeps the focus on the delightful flavors of the roll ups, allowing for a wholesome and satisfying dining experience.

Ingredients

Get ready to gather all the fresh ingredients for your Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups!

For the Roll Ups

9 lasagna noodles
2 cups ricotta cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup zucchini, finely chopped
1 cup mushrooms, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

Now that you have everything prepped, let’s move on to making these delicious roll ups!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups.

Prepare the Noodles

Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a clean towel to cool.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add zucchini, mushrooms, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Mix the Filling

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the sautéed vegetables. Mix well to incorporate all ingredients.

Assemble the Roll Ups

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Take a lasagna noodle, spread 2-3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture along the noodle, and roll it up tightly. Place each roll seam side down in the baking dish.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Once all noodles are rolled up, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the roll ups and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired!

Enjoy your homemade Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or even add proteins like cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier dish.

Key Techniques for Perfect Roll Ups

When cooking the lasagna noodles, aim for al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. It’s also essential to lay the noodles flat without overlapping them after draining; this prevents sticking and makes filling and rolling much easier. A light coating of oil on the noodles can act as a barrier, further reducing the risk of sticking.

As you assemble the roll ups, ensure you don’t overfill them with the ricotta mixture. Aim for 2-3 tablespoons—too much filling can make rolling difficult and lead to spills during baking. Rolling tightly helps keep all those delicious flavors wrapped neatly, and it makes for a more appealing presentation when serving.

Ingredient Roles and Substitution Ideas

Ricotta cheese is a star player in this dish, contributing creaminess and moisture. If you're looking for a lighter option, cottage cheese can serve as a substitute but may require blending to achieve a smoother texture. For a dairy-free version, use a vegan ricotta made from blended firm tofu, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice—it provides a surprising amount of creaminess while being entirely plant-based.

Don't shy away from using different herbs and spices in place of Italian seasoning. Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme can brighten the dish, while a dash of red pepper flakes can enhance flavor complexity. Feel free to add garlic or onion powder to the ricotta mixture for a more robust flavor base.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your roll ups seem to fall apart when you bake them, this could be due to insufficient cooling of the noodles or not rolling them tightly enough. Always ensure noodles are cool enough to handle and slightly dry before rolling. If you notice that they are sticking, you can dust the noodles lightly with flour or apply a tad of olive oil before assembling.

In case the marinara sauce renders the base too watery, try using a thicker pasta sauce or simmering the sauce longer to reduce its liquid content. This adjustment will help maintain the overall texture of the dish and will ensure that each bite remains creamy rather than soupy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free lasagna noodles?

Yes, gluten-free lasagna noodles can be used. Just ensure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for best results.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

→ Can I freeze these roll ups?

Absolutely! Assemble the roll ups and freeze before baking. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with these roll ups?

These roll ups go well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.