Creamy Goat Cheese and Roasted Red Pepper Lasagna Roll-Ups

Lasagna roll-ups are an elegant twist on traditional lasagna, combining rich Alfredo sauce, tangy goat cheese, and the vibrant sweetness of roasted red peppers. Each rolled lasagna sheet is layered with flavors and a creamy texture that is perfect for a cozy meal. This dish is simple yet indulgent, making it perfect for family dinners, date nights, or any special occasion. The recipe is easy to make, versatile, and can be prepped ahead, allowing you to enjoy the best of Italian comfort food with a gourmet touch.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 8 lasagna sheets, cooked and drained
  • 1 cup roasted red peppers, chopped (jarred or homemade)
  • 1 cup goat cheese, crumbled
  • 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Fresh herbs (thyme, parsley), chopped, for garnish
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lasagna Sheets

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna sheets according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain the lasagna sheets, then lay them flat on a baking sheet or parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped roasted red peppers and crumbled goat cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste and mix well.
  2. Set the filling aside as you prepare the Alfredo sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce (Optional)

  1. If using homemade Alfredo sauce, melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then add 1 cup of heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
  2. Add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Add the minced garlic and simmer for an additional 1–2 minutes. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna Roll-Ups

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread a thin layer of Alfredo sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking.
  3. Lay out each lasagna sheet on a flat surface. Spoon a portion of the roasted red pepper and goat cheese mixture along one end of each sheet.
  4. Carefully roll up each sheet, starting from the end with the filling, and place the roll-ups seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
  5. Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce evenly over the roll-ups, ensuring they are fully covered to stay moist while baking.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the roll-ups are heated through and the Alfredo sauce is bubbly.
  2. For a golden finish, uncover the dish and broil for 2–3 minutes, watching closely.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

  1. Remove the lasagna roll-ups from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
  2. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for added color and flavor. Serve warm, with extra Parmesan if desired.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings)

Calories: 470
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 18g
Sodium: 820mg
Fiber: 2g
Cholesterol: 70mg

These values are approximate and will vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different cheese instead of goat cheese?
A: Yes! Goat cheese has a tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with roasted peppers, but you can substitute it with ricotta, feta, or even a mild mozzarella if preferred. Each will bring a unique taste and texture.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly! However, if you want a vegan version, use vegan lasagna sheets, a plant-based Alfredo sauce, and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Q: Can I add more vegetables to the filling?
A: Absolutely. This recipe is versatile, and you can add chopped spinach, artichokes, or sautéed mushrooms to the filling to increase the veggie content.

Q: Can I use marinara sauce instead of Alfredo?
A: Certainly. Marinara sauce will provide a tangier, tomato-based flavor that complements the roasted red peppers. This will make the dish lighter compared to the creaminess of Alfredo.

Q: How can I add protein to this dish?
A: If you’d like to make this a higher-protein meal, consider adding cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or ground beef to the filling.

Tips for Perfect Lasagna Roll-Ups

  1. Cook the Lasagna Sheets Properly: Ensure the lasagna sheets are cooked until al dente to avoid them becoming too soft and breaking apart during assembly.
  2. Use Room Temperature Cheese: Goat cheese at room temperature will blend more easily with the roasted red peppers, making the filling easier to spread.
  3. Avoid Overfilling: Keep the filling portion moderate to prevent it from spilling out when rolling up the lasagna sheets.
  4. Cover While Baking: Covering the roll-ups while baking helps them stay moist and prevents the pasta from drying out.
  5. Broil for a Golden Top: For a bubbly, slightly browned topping, broil the dish uncovered for the last few minutes of baking.

Storage Tips

  1. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
  2. Freezing: Assemble the lasagna roll-ups and freeze them in an airtight container before baking. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. Freezing may alter the sauce’s consistency slightly, but it will still taste delicious.
  3. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the roll-ups up to one day in advance, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for optimal freshness.

Conclusion

Creamy Goat Cheese and Roasted Red Pepper Lasagna Roll-Ups bring a gourmet touch to the classic flavors of lasagna. The tangy goat cheese, vibrant roasted peppers, and creamy Alfredo sauce create an unforgettable combination that feels both rich and refreshing. This recipe is versatile and can be easily customized to suit different tastes or dietary preferences, whether you want to swap cheeses, add extra vegetables, or experiment with marinara sauce for a tangier base.

With easy preparation and storage options, this dish is perfect for both weekday dinners and special occasions. Whether you’re serving family, hosting a small gathering, or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal, these lasagna roll-ups are sure to impress.