Easy Salmon Lasagna Rolls Recipe Ready in 45 Minutes
Imagine tender lasagna noodles wrapped around a creamy salmon filling, topped with bubbling cheese and baked to golden perfection. These salmon lasagna rolls bring restaurant-quality elegance to your dinner table in just 45 minutes!
Each bite combines flaky salmon, rich ricotta, and aromatic herbs in individual portions that make serving a breeze. Similar to our popular chicken alfredo rolls, these salmon versions offer a sophisticated twist perfect for date nights or family gatherings.
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What Are Salmon Lasagna Rolls?
Ever wondered why we call them “rolls” when they’re clearly more like elegant bundles of joy? These delightful creations get their name from the way lasagna noodles are rolled around a luscious salmon and cheese filling, creating individual portions that look like they came from a fancy Italian restaurant.
Think of them as lasagna’s sophisticated cousin who went to culinary school! After all, the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach, and these rolls definitely know the shortcut. Ready to roll up your sleeves and create some magic?
Why You’ll Love This Salmon Lasagna Rolls Recipe
Rich, Flavorful Salmon Filling
The star of this dish is the perfectly seasoned salmon mixed with creamy ricotta cheese, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon zest. Each roll bursts with omega-3 rich salmon that’s been gently cooked and flaked to perfection. The combination creates a luxurious filling that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Budget-Friendly Homemade Elegance
Making salmon lasagna rolls at home costs significantly less than ordering similar dishes at restaurants. You’ll spend about $3-4 per serving compared to $15-20 at upscale dining establishments. Plus, you control the quality of ingredients and can customize flavors to your family’s preferences.
Impressive Individual Presentations
These rolls make stunning individual servings that look professionally prepared. Unlike traditional lasagna that can look messy when cut, each roll maintains its beautiful spiral shape on the plate. They’re perfect for dinner parties, romantic dinners, or when you want to make weeknight dinner feel special. Similar to our popular stuffed shells recipe, these create that “wow factor” your guests will remember.
Transform your kitchen into an Italian bistro and treat your loved ones to something extraordinary tonight!
How to Make Salmon Lasagna Rolls
Quick Overview
These salmon lasagna rolls are surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring just basic cooking skills and common ingredients. The creamy, herb-infused salmon filling pairs beautifully with tender pasta and melted cheese.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8 rolls
The secret lies in properly cooking the salmon to maintain its flaky texture while creating a filling that’s creamy but not watery.
Key Ingredients for Salmon Lasagna Rolls
For the Rolls:
- 8-10 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb fresh salmon fillet, skin removed
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- Additional mozzarella for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and lay flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking. This prevents the noodles from breaking when you roll them later.
Step 2: Cook the Salmon Season salmon with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook salmon for 4-5 minutes per side until it flakes easily with a fork. Remove from heat, let cool, then flake into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Make the Filling In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, fresh dill, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Gently fold in the flaked salmon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce Sauté diced onion in olive oil until translucent. Add marinara sauce and heavy cream, simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. This creates a creamy base that won’t make the rolls soggy.
Step 5: Assemble the Rolls Preheat oven to 375°F. Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish. Place about 3-4 tablespoons of salmon filling along each noodle, then carefully roll up. Place seam-side down in the prepared dish.
Step 6: Final Assembly and Baking Pour remaining sauce over the rolls and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
What to Serve Salmon Lasagna Rolls With
These elegant rolls pair beautifully with a crisp Caesar salad and garlic bread. The freshness of mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly.
For wine pairing, choose a crisp Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay that complements the salmon without overpowering the delicate flavors. Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli add colorful vegetables that balance the creamy pasta.
Consider serving with crusty Italian bread for soaking up any extra sauce, and finish the meal with a light lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate.
Top Tips for Perfecting Salmon Lasagna Rolls
Choose Quality Salmon
Fresh salmon works best, but frozen is acceptable if properly thawed and patted dry. Look for bright orange-pink color and avoid any fishy smell. Wild-caught salmon offers superior flavor and texture.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Cook noodles just until al dente since they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Overcooked noodles will tear when rolling and create a mushy texture in the final dish.
Prevent Watery Filling
Drain ricotta cheese in a fine-mesh strainer for 15 minutes before using. This removes excess moisture that could make your rolls soggy. Pat the cooked salmon completely dry before flaking.
Make-Ahead Tips
Assemble rolls up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate covered. Add 5-10 minutes to baking time if cooking from cold. You can also freeze assembled rolls for up to 3 months.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover salmon lasagna rolls in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The cream-based sauce may thicken slightly, which is normal.
Freezing Instructions: Wrap individual rolls in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags for up to 3 months. Label with date and contents for easy identification.
Reheating Methods:
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through
- Microwave: Heat individual portions for 2-3 minutes, checking every 30 seconds
- Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce seems too thick after reheating
Pro Tip: Place a damp paper towel over rolls when microwaving to prevent the pasta from drying out.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 385 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
| Omega-3 | 1.2g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned salmon instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute 14 oz of drained canned salmon for fresh. Pat it very dry and remove any bones or skin pieces. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
What if my lasagna noodles keep breaking?
This usually happens when noodles are overcooked or too dry. Cook just until al dente and keep them slightly moist when assembling. If they do break, overlap the pieces and roll carefully.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Substitute ricotta with cashew cream cheese and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Coconut milk can replace heavy cream in the sauce for a dairy-free version.
How do I know when the salmon is properly cooked?
Salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. The flesh should be opaque and separate into flakes naturally.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers make excellent additions. Just ensure vegetables are well-drained to prevent watery filling.
What’s the best way to prevent rolls from unrolling?
Place rolls seam-side down in the baking dish and don’t leave gaps between them. The sauce and cheese help hold everything together during baking.
Additional Tips for Success
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Salmon: Try smoked salmon for deeper flavor, or substitute with crab or lobster
- Herbs: Basil, parsley, or chives work well instead of dill
- Cheese: Cottage cheese can replace ricotta for lower fat content
Flavor Variations:
- Mediterranean: Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese
- Lemon Herb: Increase lemon zest and add fresh thyme
- Spicy: Include red pepper flakes and jalapeños
Presentation Tips:
- Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon wedges
- Drizzle with olive oil for extra richness
- Serve on individual plates for elegant presentation
This salmon lasagna rolls recipe brings together the comfort of traditional lasagna with the elegance of individual portions and the health benefits of omega-3 rich salmon. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or elevating a weeknight dinner, these rolls deliver impressive results with surprisingly simple techniques.