If you’re craving a comforting yet fresh meal, this Cheesy Baked Vegetable Rolls Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines tender lasagna noodles filled with a luscious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, partnered perfectly with a medley of sautéed zucchini, carrot, and spinach. Baked in a flavorful marinara sauce until bubbling and golden, these rolls are the kind of dish that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable vegetarian delight. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend supper, these rolls deliver warmth, vibrant colors, and that irresistible cheesy goodness with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making these cheesy baked vegetable rolls shine. Each element plays a vital role: from the tender noodles providing structure to the fresh vegetables offering texture and color, while the assortment of cheeses creates that creamy, melty magic.
- 8 lasagna noodles cooked and drained: These form the perfect wrap around the cheesy vegetable filling, ensuring easy rolling and a delightful bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing vegetables, it adds a subtle fruity flavor and aids in softening the veggies.
- 1 small zucchini finely diced: Adds moisture and a mild, fresh taste that balances the richness of the cheese.
- 1 small carrot grated: Brings a sweet crunch and vibrant color to the filling.
- 1 cup fresh spinach chopped: Provides a tender leafy texture and a boost of nutrients.
- 1 clove garlic minced: Adds aromatic depth and a savory punch to the vegetable blend.
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese: The creamy base that binds all the filling ingredients together.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divided: Half mixes into the filling for melty goodness, while the rest tops the rolls for a golden crust.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the cheesy filling.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to keep the filling cohesive and smooth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and seasons the filling perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick for depth.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings classic Italian flair.
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce: The luscious tomato sauce that envelopes the rolls during baking, adding moisture and tang.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Vegetable Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Vegetables
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing your baking dish to prevent any sticking. Next, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the diced zucchini and grated carrot for about 3 to 4 minutes. This softens the veggies just enough, bringing out their natural sweetness while keeping some bite. Then, add the chopped spinach and minced garlic, cooking until the spinach has wilted and the garlic is fragrant. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly so it won’t scramble the cheese filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, the egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir this blend together until smooth and creamy. Then gently fold in the sautéed vegetables, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated. This mixture is what gives the rolls their heavenly texture and that unmistakable cheesy flavor intertwined with fresh vegetable bites.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor from below. Lay out each cooked lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface and evenly spread the cheese and vegetable mixture along one side of the noodle. Roll each noodle tightly, forming neat, filled cylinders. Place the rolls seam-side down in the dish so they hold their shape during baking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the rolls, drenching them in that rich tomato goodness. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over everything to create a bubbly, golden crust. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes to heat through and melt the cheeses. Then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes to achieve a lightly browned, irresistible finish. Let the rolls rest a few minutes out of the oven—this helps them set and boosts their flavor even more.
How to Serve Cheesy Baked Vegetable Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley adds a fresh pop of color and aromatic brightness, complementing the richness of the cheese and tomato sauce beautifully. You can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you’d love a slight heat to contrast with the creamy filling.
Side Dishes
These vegetable rolls pair wonderfully with crisp green salads dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a light Italian dressing to cut through the richness. Roasted garlic bread or a bruschetta platter also make fantastic companions, adding crunchy textures to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual rolls on small plates, topped with extra marinara and a drizzle of pesto for an herbaceous punch. Alternatively, stacking them pyramid-style on a large serving tray can create a striking centerpiece for any dinner party or family gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cheesy baked vegetable rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They hold their flavor and texture beautifully, making them perfect for next-day meals or snacks.
Freezing
If you want to keep these delicious rolls longer, freeze them before baking by placing the rolled noodles in a baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply bake covered, adding extra time to thaw and heat through evenly.
Reheating
To reheat, place the rolls in a covered baking dish and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15 to 20 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. You can also microwave individual rolls, but baking helps maintain that perfect cheesy texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or even roasted eggplant to personalize your rolls. Just ensure the vegetables are cooked and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
Is it necessary to cook the lasagna noodles first?
Yes, cooking the noodles until al dente makes them flexible enough to roll without cracking. However, some no-boil noodles can work if you adjust the baking time and add extra sauce to keep them moist.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To create a vegan version, substitute ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based alternatives, and replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg. Also, ensure your marinara sauce is free from animal products.
How long do leftovers stay fresh in the fridge?
Leftover cheesy baked vegetable rolls will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Beyond that, the texture and flavor may start to decline.
Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! Assemble the rolls and place them in the baking dish covered with plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight or freeze for longer storage. When ready, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure they cook through.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Cheesy Baked Vegetable Rolls Recipe, it will become one of your favorite go-to meals for both busy weeknights and special occasions. The harmony of melted cheese, tender vegetables, and tangy marinara wrapped in perfectly rolled noodles is simply unbeatable. So grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to delight your family and friends with this wonderfully comforting dish!
Print
Cheesy Baked Vegetable Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Baked Vegetable Rolls are a delicious and wholesome Italian-inspired main course featuring tender lasagna noodles rolled with a savory mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and sautéed vegetables. Baked with marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese, this vegetarian dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Vegetable Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small zucchini, finely diced
- 1 small carrot, grated
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
For the Cheese Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Others
- 8 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent the rolls from sticking.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced zucchini and grated carrot and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly softened. Then add chopped spinach and minced garlic, cooking until the spinach wilts. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the vegetables to cool slightly.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir in the cooled sautéed vegetables until well incorporated, creating a creamy and flavorful filling.
- Assemble the Rolls: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Lay out the cooked lasagna noodles flat, then evenly spread the cheese and vegetable mixture over each noodle. Carefully roll each noodle tightly and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Top and Bake: Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the assembled rolls and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden and slightly crisp.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the baked rolls to rest for a few minutes after removing them from the oven to set. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting cheesy vegetable dish.
Notes
- You can add finely chopped mushrooms or bell peppers to the vegetable mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- For a sharper cheese taste, substitute part of the mozzarella with provolone or fontina cheese.
