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Homemade Pesto Lasagna Rolls photo

Pesto Lasagna Rolls

This Pesto Lasagna Rolls recipe is a deliciously cheesy and vibrant dish that will wow your family and friends!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 12 whole lasagna noodles
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese preferably whole milk
  • 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach thawed and squeezed dry
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese divided
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese divided
  • 1 cup store-bought pesto sauce divided
  • to taste kosher salt
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper
  • to taste crushed red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay the noodles flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, thawed and squeezed dry spinach, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, the large egg, and a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Spread a thin layer of pesto sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Take one lasagna noodle, place a generous amount of the ricotta filling along the edge, and carefully roll it up. Place the roll seam-side down into the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining noodles and filling.
  5. Once all the rolls are in the dish, spread the remaining pesto sauce over the top. Pour the creamy sauce you prepared earlier evenly over the rolls. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. If you like a little heat, sprinkle on some crushed red pepper flakes.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Notes

  • Cool leftover rolls completely before covering and refrigerating.
  • Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Unbaked rolls can be frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Consider using homemade pesto for a fresher taste.