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Baked Ziti Roll Up Ricotta

A comforting baked ziti dish featuring creamy ricotta cheese, fresh spinach, and a rich marinara sauce, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the filling
  • 1.5 cups whole milk ricotta cheese Use fresh ricotta for the best flavor.
  • 1 large egg Helps bind the filling.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Plus more for topping.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped and wilted Adds color and nutrition.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning For flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt Adjust to taste.
For assembly
  • 12 pieces lasagna noodles Cooked until al dente.
  • 3 cups marinara sauce For layering and topping.
  • 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese For topping and melting.
  • Fresh basil, torn, for garnish Adds freshness before serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the lasagna noodles and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a sheet of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine whole milk ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped and wilted spinach, Italian seasoning, and kosher salt. Mix until the filling is smooth and evenly combined.
Assembly and Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spread about one cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Spread roughly three tablespoons of the ricotta filling over each cooked lasagna noodle. Roll each noodle tightly and place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
  3. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the roll-ups and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and additional Parmesan cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  4. Remove the foil and bake for another 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  5. Garnish with torn fresh basil leaves and serve warm.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze unbaked roll-ups for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.