If you're looking for a delicious yet simple meal, Turkey Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups are your answer! These tasty roll-ups combine hearty ground turkey and fresh spinach wrapped in tender lasagna noodles, all topped with gooey cheese and rich marinara sauce. I’ll walk you through the easy steps to create this comforting dish that will impress your family and friends. Let’s get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy and Delicious: This recipe combines lean turkey and fresh spinach, making it a nutritious choice without sacrificing flavor.
- Easy to Assemble: The roll-up format makes it simple to create individual servings, perfect for family meals or gatherings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These lasagna roll-ups can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients or add your favorite vegetables to the filling for a personalized touch.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 large lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings & Sauce
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for cooking
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making Turkey Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups. You will need eight large lasagna noodles. These noodles will hold all the tasty filling. Next, get one pound of ground turkey. This protein adds flavor and makes the dish hearty. Don’t forget the fresh spinach; you need two cups, finely chopped. This green adds nutrition and color.
For the cheese mixture, you will need one cup of ricotta cheese. This cheese gives a creamy texture to your roll ups. You will also need one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, divided. Half will go inside, and half will top the dish. Finally, grab half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a salty kick.
For seasoning, you will need one large egg to bind the cheese. You will also need two cups of marinara sauce, divided. This sauce adds moisture and flavor. Don’t forget two cloves of minced garlic for aroma and taste. A teaspoon of Italian seasoning enhances the overall flavor. Use salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You will need one tablespoon of olive oil to cook the filling.
By gathering these ingredients, you set yourself up for a tasty and satisfying meal. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating a dish that is both savory and simple.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Noodles
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
- Lay out noodles to cool on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
First, you need to boil the lasagna noodles. Cook them just until they are firm, or al dente. This helps them roll better later. After cooking, drain the noodles and spread them out flat. The parchment paper keeps them from sticking together.
Cooking the Filling
- Sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add ground turkey, season, and cook through.
- Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
Next, heat olive oil in a skillet. Add minced garlic and let it cook for one minute. This makes your kitchen smell amazing! Then, add ground turkey to the pan. Break it apart with a spoon while it cooks. Season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until it's fully brown. After that, stir in the chopped spinach. Cook until it wilts, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes.
Preparing the Cheese Mixture
- Combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg.
- Fold cheese mixture into turkey and spinach filling.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half a cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, and one egg. Mix everything until smooth. Then, fold this cheese mixture into the turkey and spinach blend. This will give your filling a creamy texture.
Assembling the Roll-Ups
- Spread marinara sauce in baking dish.
- Fill and roll noodles, placing seam-side down.
- Top with remaining marinara and mozzarella cheese.
Now it’s time to assemble! Take a baking dish and spread some marinara sauce on the bottom. This adds flavor and keeps the noodles moist. Take a lasagna noodle and spread a layer of the turkey filling along its length. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in the dish. Repeat this with the rest of the noodles. After all the roll-ups are in, pour the remaining marinara sauce over them. Finally, sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top.
Baking Instructions
- Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25 minutes. After that, take off the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes. The cheese should be bubbly and golden brown when done. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. This makes it easier to serve and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
- Ensure noodles are al dente for easy rolling.
- Let filling cool before using to prevent sogginess. If the filling is too hot, it can make the noodles soft and hard to handle.
Presentation Tips
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan. This adds color and flavor.
- Pair with a light side salad for a balanced meal. A simple mixed green salad complements the dish well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the noodles can lead to messy roll-ups. Use just enough filling to keep them intact.
- Not preheating the oven properly can affect cooking time. Always set your oven to 375°F before baking.
Pro Tips
- Tip for Perfect Noodles: Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles just until al dente. This will prevent them from becoming too soft and falling apart during assembly.
- Mixing the Filling: For a creamier filling, let the ricotta come to room temperature before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will help it blend more smoothly.
- Layering Sauce: Use a good quality marinara sauce for the best flavor, and don't be shy with the sauce on top of the roll-ups; it keeps them moist and adds depth to the dish.
- Cooling Time: Allow the lasagna roll-ups to cool for a few minutes after baking. This will help them set and make them easier to serve without falling apart.
Variations
Vegetable Variations
You can easily swap ground turkey for ground beef or chicken. This change gives you a new taste while keeping it delicious. If you want more veggies, try adding mushrooms or bell peppers to the filling. These veggies add texture and flavor, making the roll-ups even better.
Cheese Variations
Mix up the cheese to find your favorite flavor. You can use cottage cheese or goat cheese instead of ricotta. Each cheese offers a unique taste. Try different blends of mozzarella and Parmesan for a creamier filling. The combinations are endless, and you can make it your own.
Sauce Variations
While marinara is classic, you can try a white sauce or pesto. These sauces change the flavor profile and can surprise your guests. For an extra burst of flavor, add a layer of roasted red pepper sauce. It adds sweetness and depth, making your dish stand out.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
Store your Turkey Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups in an airtight container. They stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best taste, reheat them in the oven. This keeps the cheese melty and the noodles firm.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze these roll-ups too! Assemble them but do not bake. Place them in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
Reheating Tips
Reheating in the oven is best. It keeps the roll-ups crispy and delicious. If you use the microwave, they may turn soggy. So, if you want great texture, stick with the oven!
FAQs
Can I make Turkey Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these roll-ups in advance. Simply assemble them and store in the fridge or freezer. If using the fridge, they last up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to two months. Just remember to cover them well. You can bake them straight from cold or thaw them in the fridge overnight.
What can I serve with Turkey Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups?
These roll-ups pair well with many sides. A fresh side salad adds crunch and brightness. Garlic bread is perfect for that extra flavor. Roasted vegetables also make a great match. You can mix and match based on what you love.
How do I know when the roll-ups are done baking?
You can tell the roll-ups are ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly. Look for a golden brown top. This usually takes about 35 to 40 minutes in the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps them set and makes them easier to cut.
In this post, I shared an easy recipe for Turkey Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. Remember to avoid common mistakes, like overfilling the noodles. Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or cheeses for a tasty twist. These roll-ups are perfect for meal prep, and storing leftovers is simple. Enjoy making this dish, and don't hesitate to try new flavors for your family’s taste. Happy cooking!
