Cheesy Pumpkin Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups
Welcome to your next favorite comfort food: Cheesy Pumpkin Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups. This delightful dish combines the creamy sweetness of pumpkin puree with fresh spinach and three cheeses, all rolled up in tender lasagna noodles and baked under a blanket of marinara sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests, these roll-ups offer a festive twist on a classic Italian favorite that’s both hearty and wholesome.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
- Unique flavor combo: The subtle sweetness of pumpkin paired with savory cheeses and spinach creates a deliciously balanced bite.
- Easy to customize: You can swap cheeses or add your favorite herbs to tailor it to your taste.
- Perfect portion control: Each roll-up is individually sized, making serving a breeze and leftovers easy to reheat.
- Vegetable-packed: Fresh spinach and nutrient-rich pumpkin puree add wholesome goodness without sacrificing flavor.
- Family-friendly: Mild, cheesy, and comforting, this recipe appeals to kids and adults alike.
- Make ahead convenience: Prepare the roll-ups in advance and bake when ready, ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining.
What You’ll Gather
- 9 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
- 2 cups pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
What You’ll Need (Gear)
- Baking dish (9×13 inch works perfectly for 9 roll-ups)
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Mixing bowls (one large for filling, one small for sauce)
- Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
- Knife and cutting board for chopping spinach and garlic
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil (for covering while baking)
Cheesy Pumpkin Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups, Made Easy
Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Gently drain and lay the noodles flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Pumpkin Spinach Filling
In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, egg, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Stir everything together until smooth and evenly mixed. This rich filling is the heart of your Cheesy Pumpkin Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups, bringing creamy texture and vibrant flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Assemble the Roll-Ups
Spread a thin layer of the pumpkin-spinach mixture evenly over each lasagna noodle, leaving a small border on the edges. Next, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the filling. Carefully roll up each noodle from one end to the other, creating a neat little bundle of cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Layer and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Place the lasagna roll-ups seam side down in a single layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with any leftover mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 5: Serve
Allow the roll-ups to cool slightly before serving. These Cheesy Pumpkin Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a warm bowl of Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Soup for a full meal experience.
Variations by Season
- Fall: Add toasted pumpkin seeds on top for extra crunch and nuttiness.
- Winter: Mix in sautéed mushrooms or kale for an earthy, hearty twist.
- Spring: Swap spinach for fresh basil and add sun-dried tomatoes to brighten the flavors.
- Summer: Use fresh zucchini ribbons layered inside the roll-ups for a lighter, veggie-forward dish.
Behind the Recipe
This recipe is inspired by the comforting tradition of lasagna but reimagined with pumpkin to add a seasonal touch and creamy texture. Pumpkin not only enhances the flavor but also adds moisture, reducing the need for heavy cream or extra cheese. The spinach balances the sweetness with a pop of freshness and nutrients.
Three cheeses—ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan—create layers of melty, savory goodness, while the egg helps bind the filling for easy rolling. Dried oregano and nutmeg lend subtle warmth and earthiness, making these roll-ups a perfect dish for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
Leftover Cheesy Pumpkin Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups store beautifully.
- Refrigerate: Keep leftovers covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Assemble the roll-ups and freeze them before baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to the baking process.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Popular Questions
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture from the frozen spinach before mixing it into the filling. This prevents watery roll-ups and keeps the filling creamy.
Is it okay to use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Absolutely! If you prefer no-boil noodles, you can use them directly without pre-cooking. Just make sure to add a bit more sauce to keep the noodles moist while baking.
Can I substitute the pumpkin puree with sweet potato?
Sweet potato puree is a great alternative if you want a slightly different flavor profile. It pairs well with the cheeses and spinach, giving a similar creamy texture and natural sweetness.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
To make these roll-ups vegan, substitute ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based cheeses, and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Ensure your marinara sauce is free from animal products.
Desserts to Finish
- Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Soup – While technically a soup, it’s a velvety, dessert-like treat perfect for pumpkin lovers.
- Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Pasta – For a savory follow-up or a side dish to complement your meal.
- Cheesy Pumpkin Lasagna Roll Ups – A similar recipe for when you want to change up the format but keep the cozy pumpkin vibe.
Bring It to the Table
Serve these Cheesy Pumpkin Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups hot and bubbly straight from the oven. Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for a pop of color and flavor. Pair with a crisp white wine or a sparkling water infused with citrus for a refreshing contrast. Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a special occasion, these roll-ups are sure to delight and satisfy.
For an extra touch, add a side of garlic bread or a colorful mixed green salad. The combination of creamy, cheesy filling and bright, tangy marinara sauce will make this dish a memorable meal everyone will ask you to make again and again.
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Cheesy Pumpkin Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Gently drain and lay the noodles flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, minced garlic, egg, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Stir everything together until smooth and evenly mixed.
- Spread a thin layer of the pumpkin-spinach mixture evenly over each lasagna noodle, leaving a small border on the edges. Next, sprinkle some shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the filling. Carefully roll up each noodle from one end to the other.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Place the lasagna roll-ups seam side down in a single layer. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with any leftover mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Allow the roll-ups to cool slightly before serving. They pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a warm bowl of Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Soup for a full meal experience.
Notes
- Use no-boil noodles for an easier and faster prep, but add extra sauce to keep them moist.
- Freeze assembled roll-ups before baking for convenient make-ahead meals; bake directly from frozen adding extra time.
- Substitute pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a different but similarly creamy flavor.
- To make vegan, replace cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use a flax egg instead of a chicken egg.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated up to 3 days and can be reheated in oven or microwave.
