Introduction to Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up something delicious while juggling life’s many responsibilities. Enter my Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups! This dish is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. It’s easy to make, filling, and full of flavors that your family will love. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress your loved ones, these roll-ups are the perfect solution! Trust me, they’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups
These Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups are not only delectable, but they’re also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that bursts with flavor and comfort. Their individual roll-up format allows for perfect serving sizes, making them ideal for busy nights or elegant gatherings. Plus, they can be prepared ahead of time, saving you precious minutes on those hectic weekdays!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups
Before we dive in, let’s gather our ingredients for these fabulous Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups. You’ll find everything you need right here, so feel free to take a peek at the bottom of the article for exact measurements.
- Lasagna Noodles: These hearty sheets hold our delicious filling. You can use traditional or no-boil noodles, whichever is easier for you!
- Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds a velvety texture to our filling. You can swap it with cottage cheese for a lower-fat option.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melty goodness! It’s the star of our dish, making everything ooze with cheesy flavor.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of this cheese adds that nutty, salty punch we all love in lasagna.
- Fresh Spinach: Bright and nutritious, spinach gives our roll-ups a pop of color and health benefits. Feel free to toss in kale or other favorite veggies!
- Fresh Basil: This aromatic herb elevates the flavor profile. If you can’t find fresh, a dash of dried basil will work in a pinch.
- Large Eggs: They act as a binder, holding that scrumptious filling together.
- Garlic: You can never have too much garlic! It infuses the dish with tons of aroma and taste. Use fresh cloves, minced to unleash all that flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: Essentials for seasoning! Adjust to your taste, ensuring each bite is seasoned perfectly.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): A little kick if you like heat! If not, feel free to leave it out.
- Unsalted Butter: Our secret sauce’s base, contributing richness and depth. You can substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Fresh Parsley: For a garnish that adds freshness and color at the end!
These ingredients come together to create a cozy dish everyone will adore, perfect for busy nights or lovely weekends! Ready to start rolling? You’ll find the quantities at the end, all set for printing!
How to Make Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups
Now comes the fun part! Making Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a flavorful dinner on the table in no time!
Prepare the Oven and Noodles
First, preheat your oven to 375°F. This step is key as it ensures your roll-ups bake evenly and become perfectly gooey.
Next, cook the lasagna noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a parchment-lined surface. This keeps them from sticking together and makes assembly a breeze!
Make the Cheese Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, basil, eggs, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix everything until it’s well combined. This creamy filling is what makes our roll-ups irresistible!
For a smoother texture, consider using a mixer or food processor. It really elevates the flavor profile. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Assemble the Roll-Ups
Now it’s time to roll! Spread about 2 tablespoons of the cheese filling across each noodle, stretching it from end to end. This can be a little messy, but that’s part of the fun!
Carefully roll each noodle away from you, tucking in the filling as you go. Place each roll seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Common mistake? Don’t overstuff the noodles, or they’ll burst during baking!
Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. But hey, don’t overcook it, or you’ll get a bitter taste.
Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Drizzle about half of this luscious garlic butter sauce over the assembled roll-ups. It’s like a warm hug for your pasta!
Bake and Serve
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the cheese to become beautifully golden and bubbly.
Once it’s out of the oven, don’t rush! Drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce over the roll-ups. Let them rest for about 5 minutes. This waiting time builds flavor and ensures your Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups are a hit!
Tips for Success
- Cook the noodles until just al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use a generous amount of garlic in the butter sauce for that rich, mouthwatering flavor.
- Don’t rush the assembly—take your time to roll them tightly for better presentation.
- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables to boost nutrition.
- Always let the dish rest before serving to help the flavors meld.
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot: For boiling the lasagna noodles. A Dutch oven works great too!
- Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch dish is ideal. You can also use two smaller dishes if needed.
- Mixing Bowl: For combining the cheese filling. A large bowl or even a stand mixer will do.
- Small Saucepan: For the garlic butter sauce. You could use a skillet if that’s what you have!
- Spatula: For spreading and stirring. A silicone spatula is perfect for a smooth mix!
Variations on Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups
- Meat Lover’s Twist: Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the cheese filling for a hearty version that meat lovers will adore.
- Veggie Delight: Toss in roasted zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients. This makes it colorful and nutritious!
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free alternatives. There are amazing rice or corn-based noodles available!
- Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute dairy cheeses with vegan alternatives and use olive oil instead of butter. Delicious and suitable for lactose-intolerant folks!
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or feta in the filling for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups
- Side Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
- Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Merlot enhances the Italian flavors beautifully.
- Garnish: Top with extra fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color before serving.
FAQs about Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups
Can I prep Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the roll-ups ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven without needing to thaw.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups?
These roll-ups pair wonderfully with a side salad or crispy garlic bread. You can also enjoy them with a glass of red wine for a lovely Italian evening at home!
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups?
Yes! You can freeze them before baking. Just let them cool completely if you’ve cooked them first, then wrap them well and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from frozen—just add a bit more cooking time.
What other vegetables can I add to the filling?
You can add roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition. Just chop them finely before mixing with the cheese filling!
Are Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes! Since these roll-ups are packed with cheese and veggies, they make for a hearty vegetarian meal. Just double-check any cheese substitutes if you’re cooking for a strict vegetarian!
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply satisfying about serving a dish that not only looks beautiful but also warms the hearts of those you love. My Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups are that perfect balance of comfort and elegance, inviting everyone to gather around the dinner table. With rich flavors enveloped in cheesy goodness, these roll-ups create memorable moments and ignite laughter amidst the chaos of life. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe offers the joy of a homemade meal. Trust me, it’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation!
PrintGarlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups
Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups are a delicious and savory twist on traditional lasagna, featuring rolled noodles filled with a creamy cheese mixture and drizzled with a rich garlic butter sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 1/4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook lasagna noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and lay flat on a parchment-lined surface.
- In a mixing bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, spinach, basil, eggs, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, add garlic, and cook until fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Spread 2 tablespoons of filling along each noodle, roll up tightly, and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Drizzle half of the garlic butter sauce over the roll-ups.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Drizzle remaining garlic butter sauce over roll-ups and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add more vegetables to the filling for added nutrition.
- The roll-ups can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- For a lighter version, substitute part-skim ricotta and mozzarella cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll-up
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 100mg