Description
This Simple Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups recipe combines the classic flavors of Italian lasagna with a quick and easy preparation method. Cooked lasagna noodles are spread with vibrant basil pesto and a creamy cheese mixture, rolled up and simmered in marinara sauce in a skillet before a brief broil for a bubbly, golden top. Perfect for a comforting vegetarian main course that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
Scale
Lasagna Roll Ups
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup prepared basil pesto
For the Sauce and Cooking
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Assemble the Roll Ups: Lay the cooked and drained lasagna noodles flat on a clean surface. Spread approximately 1 tablespoon of basil pesto evenly over each noodle. Then, spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture over the pesto, spreading it out evenly. Carefully roll up each noodle tightly from one end to the other to form neat roll ups.
- Prepare the Skillet: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into the skillet and spread it evenly to cover the bottom.
- Cook the Roll Ups: Place the lasagna roll ups seam-side down into the skillet atop the marinara. Spoon the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over the tops of the roll ups. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently on low heat for 15 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
- Broil for Finish: Remove the lid and optionally sprinkle additional mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the tops. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 2 to 3 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm and enjoy your rustic, cheesy pesto lasagna roll ups.
Notes
- You can use store-bought or homemade basil pesto according to your preference or availability.
- For added nutrition and flavor, mix cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms into the cheese mixture before assembling the roll ups.
- These lasagna roll ups freeze well after assembly—freeze before cooking, then thaw and cook when ready for a convenient meal.
