Description
Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups are a delicious and easy-to-make Italian-inspired dish featuring tender lasagna noodles filled with a creamy blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and basil pesto. Cooked gently on the stovetop in marinara sauce and finished under the broiler for a bubbly golden top, this comforting main course is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Garnished with fresh basil, it combines rich flavors and a satisfying texture in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Lasagna Roll Ups Filling
- 8 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup prepared basil pesto
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking & Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Extra shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, basil pesto, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended to create a creamy filling.
- Roll the Noodles: Lay the cooked and drained lasagna noodles flat on a clean surface. Spread about 2–3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture evenly over each noodle, then tightly roll each one up into a compact roll.
- Heat the Skillet and Sauce: Warm the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet and spread it evenly across the bottom to form a flavorful base.
- Arrange and Simmer: Place the lasagna roll-ups seam side down over the marinara sauce in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let the roll-ups simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until heated through and the flavors meld together.
- Broil for a Golden Top: If desired, sprinkle extra shredded mozzarella over the lasagna roll-ups. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil leaves if using. Serve the skillet pesto cheese lasagna roll ups hot for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can use either homemade or store-bought pesto and marinara sauce depending on your preference and convenience.
- For added flavor and nutrition, consider mixing sautéed spinach or cooked ground sausage into the cheese filling before rolling.
- Ensure the skillet you use is oven-safe if you plan to broil the cheese topping.
- Watch closely while broiling to achieve a perfect golden finish without burning the cheese.
