Frequently Asked Questions
What are Creamy Spinach and Broccoli Lasagna Roll-Ups?
This dish is a creative twist on traditional lasagna where individual noodles are filled with a mixture of ricotta, spinach, broccoli, and mushrooms, then rolled and baked with sauce and cheese.
What was the inspiration for this recipe?
This recipe was inspired by a dish from the Bagel Factory in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking the roll-ups.
How many lasagna noodles are needed?
The recipe calls for 16 ounces of lasagna noodles, cooked al dente.
Do I need to cook the spinach and broccoli first?
You should use frozen chopped spinach and broccoli that has been thawed and thoroughly drained of moisture.
Why is it important to squeeze the moisture out of the vegetables?
Squeezing out the moisture prevents the filling from becoming too watery and making the lasagna noodles soggy.
What kind of mushrooms should I use?
The recipe specifies using 8 ounces of drained canned mushroom stems and pieces.
What role do the egg yolks play in the recipe?
Three egg yolks are mixed into the ricotta to help bind the filling together as it bakes.
What type of ricotta cheese is best?
The recipe suggests using 32 ounces of part-skim ricotta cheese for a creamy texture.
How much mozzarella cheese is required?
You will need 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, split between the filling and the topping.
What seasonings are added to the cheese mixture?
The filling is seasoned with a dash of ground nutmeg, dried parsley flakes, and grated Parmesan cheese.
What type of sauce is used for these roll-ups?
The recipe uses 28 ounces (two 14.5-ounce cans) of canned tomato sauce.
How do I prevent the roll-ups from unrolling in the pan?
Place the rolled-up noodles seam side down in the baking pan and fit them snugly against each other.
How long does the lasagna need to bake?
Bake the dish covered with foil for 30 minutes, then uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
How do I know when the lasagna roll-ups are done?
The dish is ready when the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and the internal filling is hot.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups in the pan and refrigerate them before baking, though you may need to add a few minutes to the bake time.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly recipe featuring vegetables and cheese.
Can I add meat to this recipe?
While designed as a vegetarian dish, you could add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the tomato sauce if desired.
What is the best way to drain the thawed spinach?
Using a clean kitchen towel to squeeze the thawed spinach is the most effective way to remove excess water.
Should the lasagna noodles be rinsed after boiling?
Draining them is sufficient; laying them flat on a clean surface prevents them from sticking while they cool.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, but you should steam and finely chop the fresh broccoli before adding it to the mixture.
What can I substitute for canned mushrooms?
You can use fresh sautéed mushrooms or omit them entirely if you prefer.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
While serving sizes vary, 16 ounces of noodles typically provide 8 to 10 servings.
Can I use marinara sauce instead of plain tomato sauce?
Yes, marinara sauce can be used for added herb and garlic flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can these lasagna roll-ups be frozen?
Yes, they freeze well. Wrap the pan tightly with foil and plastic wrap before freezing.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or place them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
What side dishes go well with this meal?
A crisp green salad or garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment to this pasta dish.
Why is nutmeg used in the cheese filling?
Nutmeg is a classic addition to ricotta-based Italian dishes, providing a subtle warmth that complements the cheese and spinach.
Is it necessary to use egg yolks specifically?
The yolks provide richness and stability to the filling, but a whole egg can be used as a substitute if preferred.