Skinny Lasagna Rolls

Skinny Lasagna Rolls are a lighter, healthier twist on classic lasagna. Instead of layering pasta, cheese, and sauce in a large casserole dish, this recipe rolls the ingredients into individual portions, creating a neat, flavorful presentation that’s easy to serve. Filled with spinach, creamy ricotta, and topped with marinara and mozzarella, these rolls are satisfying yet balanced in calories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Portion-controlled and ideal for meal prep or serving a crowd
• Made with wholesome ingredients for a lighter meal
• Easy to customize with different fillings or sauces
• Simple to assemble and bake, even for beginner cooks
• Family-friendly and freezer-friendly

Ingredients

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well-drained
• 15 oz part-skim ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 32 oz marinara sauce
• 9 tablespoons shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and lay them flat on a clean surface.
3. In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta, spinach, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
4. Spread about 1/3 cup of the filling evenly over each noodle.
5. Roll each noodle tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish lined with a layer of marinara sauce.
6. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the rolls and sprinkle each with mozzarella cheese.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes, until heated through and bubbly.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 to 5
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add protein: Mix in cooked ground turkey, chicken, or lean beef with the ricotta mixture.
• Use fresh spinach: Sauté fresh spinach until wilted, then chop and use in place of frozen.
• Swap cheeses: Try cottage cheese instead of ricotta for a lower-fat option.
• Different sauces: Use a spicy arrabbiata or a creamy Alfredo for a twist.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual rolls or the entire dish and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Microwave individual portions or bake in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

FAQs

What makes these lasagna rolls “skinny”?

They use part-skim cheeses and spinach for lower fat and calories compared to traditional lasagna.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, just cook and drain it well before mixing it with the cheese.

Do I need to cook the noodles first?

Yes, the noodles need to be cooked and pliable to roll properly.

Can I assemble these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready.

Can I freeze the lasagna rolls before baking?

Yes, assemble them fully, then freeze in a covered dish. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

How do I keep the rolls from falling apart?

Roll them tightly and place them seam-side down in the dish. Cover with sauce to help hold them together.

Can I make this vegetarian?

This version is already vegetarian, but you can always add more vegetables if desired.

What sides go well with lasagna rolls?

A fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread pair well.

What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

You can substitute with cottage cheese or a ricotta-style tofu mixture.

How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Add a spoonful of marinara over the roll and cover it before reheating in the oven or microwave.

Conclusion

Skinny Lasagna Rolls are a flavorful, lighter alternative to classic lasagna, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. With wholesome ingredients and customizable options, this dish delivers comfort and nutrition in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or freezing leftovers for later, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll come back to again and again.