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; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 zucchini, grated; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 2 cups fresh spinach; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 jar marinara sauce (about 24 oz)

Highlighted under: Clean Food

I love making Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups because they are a delightful twist on traditional lasagna. Each roll is packed with layers of delicious vegetables and creamy ricotta cheese, all wrapped in tender lasagna noodles. The best part is how customizable they are! I can easily swap in my favorite seasonal veggies or adjust the herbs for a different flavor profile. They make for an impressive dish at dinner parties or a cozy weeknight meal, and everyone raves about how hearty and satisfying they are.

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:05:36.822Z

When I first tried Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups, I was amazed at how such a simple dish could be so flavorful. I experimented with various vegetables, but I found that a combination of zucchini, spinach, and bell peppers offers the best balance of texture and taste. The addition of garlic and fresh basil really elevates the flavors.

One crucial tip I’ve learned is to not overstuff the rolls. It’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, but leaving a little space allows the cheese to melt beautifully and the rolls to hold shape. Plus, they bake evenly this way!

The Art of Filling and Rolling

When it comes to filling the lasagna noodles, the key is to apply a generous yet even layer of the vegetable and ricotta mixture. Too little filling can lead to dry rolls, while overstuffing can cause them to burst during baking. Aim for about half a cup of filling spread across each noodle, ensuring an enjoyable balance in every bite. Folding in the fresh spinach at the end retains its vibrant color and nutrients, adding a fresh element to the hearty filling.

Rolling the lasagna noodles tightly is essential for an elegant presentation. Start from one end and gently roll to the other, making sure to keep the filling contained. If you encounter resistance or the noodles seem to crack, they might not be fully cooked; next time, try cooking them for an extra minute to improve flexibility. The seam of the roll should be positioned down in the baking dish to prevent unrolling during baking.

Choosing the Right Marinara and Cheeses

The marinara sauce is crucial in tying all the flavors together. Opt for a quality jarred sauce or make your own for a fresher taste. Look for sauces that list tomatoes as the first ingredient and contain herbs, as this adds depth to the dish. If you prefer a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce or blending in roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor boost.

A mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses offers creaminess and richness in each bite. When selecting mozzarella, consider using low-moisture cheese, as it takes on a lovely, bubbly texture when baked. For a non-dairy option, swap ricotta and mozzarella with cashew cheese or tofu-based alternatives, keeping the same proportions to maintain the dish's structure. Remember, the cheeses not only contribute flavor but also provide moisture during baking, so ensure a good balance.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for your Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups:

Ingredients

9 lasagna noodles
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 zucchini, grated
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cups fresh spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 jar marinara sauce (about 24 oz)

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready for assembly!

Instructions

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

Cook the Lasagna Noodles

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and lay them flat on a clean surface to cool.

Prepare the Filling

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and grated zucchini. Sauté for about 5 minutes until tender, then add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and mix in ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Roll Ups

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Take a lasagna noodle, spread a generous amount of the filling on top, and roll it up tightly. Place the roll seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with remaining noodles.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the rolled noodles, ensuring they are well-covered. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired for a vibrant touch.

Enjoy your delicious Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups with a side salad!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and herbs to make this dish your own! You can also make these roll ups ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups can be assembled ahead of time, making them ideal for meal prep. Once rolled and covered with sauce and cheese, you can refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the dish's overall taste. If you’re looking to freeze them, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap after assembling and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months, which will also help in meal planning.

To bake frozen roll-ups, simply remove them from the freezer and bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until bubbling. It’s helpful to cover them with foil for the first 30 minutes to prevent the cheese from over-browning, then remove the foil for the remaining time to achieve that golden, bubbly top we all enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve the Vegetable Lasagna Roll Ups alongside a light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the lasagna. You can add a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts on the salad for an extra crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall texture of your meal.

If you're looking to elevate the dish further, consider pairing it with garlic bread or a crusty baguette. This way, you can enjoy every bit of the delicious marinara sauce without leaving any trace behind on your plate. For a festive touch, garnish the roll-ups with fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving to add a pop of color and enhance the aroma.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free lasagna noodles for a gluten-free version.

→ Can I freeze the roll ups?

Absolutely! Assemble the roll ups, then freeze before baking. When ready to eat, bake straight from the freezer, adding extra bake time.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a vegan cheese spread as a substitute for ricotta.

→ Is there a way to make these roll ups ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the roll ups and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking or even freeze them.