Simple Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups
Lasagna is a classic comfort food that is beloved by many. But sometimes, making a traditional lasagna can be a time-consuming process. If you’re craving the flavors of lasagna but want something a bit simpler and quicker, skillet pesto cheese lasagna roll-ups are the perfect solution. This dish combines the cheesy goodness of lasagna with the fresh, herbaceous flavors of pesto, all rolled up into convenient individual servings and cooked in a skillet. It’s a fun, tasty twist on the classic dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Why Skillet Lasagna Roll-Ups?
Skillet lasagna roll-ups offer several advantages over traditional lasagna. First, they’re faster to prepare because you don’t have to layer the ingredients in a large baking dish and wait for it to bake. Instead, the lasagna noodles are rolled up with the filling, placed in a skillet, and cooked on the stovetop. This means you can have a delicious, cheesy, and satisfying meal on the table in much less time.
Additionally, the roll-up format makes serving and portion control easier. Each roll-up is an individual serving, so there’s no need to cut slices of lasagna. This also makes it easier to store leftovers, as you can simply wrap up each roll and save it for later.
Ingredients for Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll-Ups
To make this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Pesto:
- Fresh Basil: 2 cups of fresh basil leaves, packed.
- Pine Nuts: 1/4 cup of pine nuts (or walnuts as a substitute).
- Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, peeled.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 1/2 cup of high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
For the Cheese Filling:
- Ricotta Cheese: 1 cup of ricotta cheese.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Egg: 1 large egg, lightly beaten.
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
For the Lasagna Roll-Ups:
- Lasagna Noodles: 8-10 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions until al dente.
- Pesto: Prepared pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought).
- Marinara Sauce: 2 cups of your favorite marinara sauce.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for topping.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for topping.
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil leaves for garnish.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a bit of heat, if desired.
- Extra Parmesan Cheese: Additional grated Parmesan for sprinkling.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll-Ups
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process of making skillet pesto cheese lasagna roll-ups.
Step 1: Prepare the Pesto
If you’re making homemade pesto, start by preparing the sauce. The fresh flavors of homemade pesto will elevate the dish, but you can also use store-bought pesto for convenience.
1. Toast the Pine Nuts
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and add the pine nuts. Toast them for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they’re golden and fragrant. Remove from the skillet and let them cool.
2. Blend the Pesto
- In a food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, toasted pine nuts, garlic cloves, and Parmesan cheese. Pulse until the ingredients are finely chopped. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Store the Pesto
- Transfer the pesto to an airtight container if not using immediately. Pesto can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling
The cheese filling is a rich, creamy mixture that pairs beautifully with the pesto and marinara sauce.
1. Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, and chopped parsley. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Set Aside
- Cover the cheese filling and set it aside while you prepare the lasagna noodles.
Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Cooking the lasagna noodles to the right texture is crucial for making roll-ups that are easy to handle and delicious to eat.
1. Boil the Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Al dente means the noodles are cooked but still firm to the bite.
2. Drain and Cool
- Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Lay the noodles out on a clean kitchen towel to cool slightly and prevent sticking.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna Roll-Ups
Assembling the roll-ups is a fun and straightforward process. Each noodle is filled with the cheese mixture and pesto, then rolled up and placed in the skillet.
1. Spread the Cheese Filling
- Lay a cooked lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface. Spread a few tablespoons of the cheese filling evenly over the noodle, leaving a small border around the edges.
2. Add Pesto
- Spread a thin layer of pesto sauce over the cheese filling. Be careful not to add too much, as you want the flavors to balance without overpowering the dish.
3. Roll the Noodle
- Starting at one end, carefully roll the noodle up into a tight spiral. Repeat the process with the remaining noodles, cheese filling, and pesto.
4. Place in the Skillet
- In a large, oven-safe skillet, spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce across the bottom. Place the lasagna roll-ups seam side down in the skillet. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the roll-ups.
Step 5: Cook the Lasagna Roll-Ups
Cooking the roll-ups in a skillet gives them a wonderfully cheesy, gooey texture, with slightly crispy edges.
1. Sprinkle with Cheese
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top of the roll-ups.
2. Cover and Cook
- Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and place it over medium heat. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the roll-ups are heated through.
3. Broil (Optional)
- If you want the cheese on top to be golden and slightly crispy, you can place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Your skillet pesto cheese lasagna roll-ups are now ready to be served!
1. Garnish
- Remove the skillet from the heat and let the roll-ups cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
2. Plate the Dish
- Serve the roll-ups directly from the skillet, or carefully transfer them to individual plates. Be sure to scoop up some of the sauce and melted cheese from the skillet to drizzle over each roll-up.
Tips for Perfect Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll-Ups
Achieving the perfect lasagna roll-ups is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you along the way:
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
- Fresh basil, garlic, and high-quality cheese will make a significant difference in the flavor of your pesto and filling. Whenever possible, opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients.
2. Don’t Overfill the Noodles
- Be careful not to overfill the lasagna noodles with the cheese and pesto mixture. If the rolls are too full, they may burst open during cooking.
3. Cook Noodles to Al Dente
- Cooking the noodles to al dente is important for achieving the right texture in your roll-ups. Overcooked noodles may become too soft and difficult to work with.
4. Use an Oven-Safe Skillet
- Ensure that your skillet is oven-safe if you plan to broil the roll-ups at the end. A cast-iron skillet is an excellent choice for this recipe.
Variations and Customizations
One of the great things about skillet pesto cheese lasagna roll-ups is their versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
1. Spinach and Ricotta Roll-Ups
- Add cooked, chopped spinach to the cheese filling for a nutritious twist. Sauté fresh spinach until wilted, squeeze out any excess moisture, and mix it into the ricotta filling.
2. Meat Lover’s Roll-Ups
- For a heartier version, add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken to the cheese filling. Simply mix the meat into the filling before spreading it on the noodles.
3. Gluten-Free Roll-Ups
- If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free lasagna noodles. Be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as gluten-free noodles may require different cooking methods.
4. Vegan Roll-Ups
- Make this dish vegan by using dairy-free cheese alternatives and a vegan pesto recipe. There are many delicious plant-based cheeses available that melt beautifully in this dish.
Serving Suggestions
These lasagna roll-ups are a satisfying meal on their own, but you can elevate the experience with a few complementary sides:
1. Garlic Bread
- Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up any extra marinara sauce. The crispy, buttery bread pairs perfectly with the cheesy, saucy roll-ups.
2. Caesar Salad
- A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Parmesan cheese adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the lasagna roll-ups.
3. Caprese Salad
- A simple Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil is a light and refreshing side that complements the flavors of the pesto.
Beverage Pairings
Pairing the right beverage with your meal can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some suggestions:
1. Red Wine
- A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese pairs beautifully with the flavors of pesto and marinara.
2. Sparkling Water
- For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime is a refreshing choice that balances the richness of the dish.
3. Iced Tea
- A glass of iced tea with a hint of lemon is a light and refreshing beverage that complements the meal.
Conclusion
Simple skillet pesto cheese lasagna roll-ups are a delicious, comforting dish that combines the best elements of lasagna and pesto into one easy-to-make meal. The roll-up format makes them fun to prepare and serve, and cooking them in a skillet ensures they’re ready in no time.
With the right ingredients and a little attention to detail, you can create a dish that’s not only flavorful but also visually appealing. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and variations to make the recipe your own. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, skillet pesto cheese lasagna roll-ups are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for lasagna but want something a bit quicker and easier, give this recipe a try. It might just become your new go-to comfort food!
Simple Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups
Lasagna is a classic comfort food that is beloved by many. But sometimes, making a traditional lasagna can be a time-consuming process. If you’re craving the flavors of lasagna but want something a bit simpler and quicker, skillet pesto cheese lasagna roll-ups are the perfect solution. This dish combines the cheesy goodness of lasagna with the fresh, herbaceous flavors of pesto, all rolled up into convenient individual servings and cooked in a skillet. It’s a fun, tasty twist on the classic dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3/4 pound ground beef, chicken, or ground spicy Italian sausage
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed San Marzano tomatoes (or 3 cups tomato sauce)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano (or 2 teaspoons dried)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 2 teaspoons dried)
- 1 teaspoon dried fennel seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes using more or less to your taste
- kosher salt and black pepper
- 12 uncooked lasagna noodles
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded fontina cheese
- 3/4 cup basil pesto homemade or store-bought
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes drained and chopped
- 4 ounces mozzarella, torn
- fresh thyme or basil, for serving
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large, oven safe skillet. When the oil shimmers, add the ground meat and brown all over, about 5 to 8 minutes. Reduce the heat to low, add the bell pepper, garlic, oregano, thyme, fennel, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch each of salt and pepper. Cook 5 minutes, until fragrant. Reduce the heat to low. Add the tomatoes and simmer 10 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and boil the pasta until al dente. Drain and run under cold water to stop the cooking.
4. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, fontina, 1/2 cup pesto, and sun-dried tomatoes.
5. To assemble, spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mix down the length of the noodle. Roll into a coil and place each seam-side down in the skillet as you go, snuggling the roll into the sauce. Repeat with remaining noodles. Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup pesto evenly over everything. Add the mozzarella.
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 600