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Cajun Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups bring together bold Louisiana flavors and classic Italian comfort in a meal that always disappears fast at my table. Each noodle is filled with creamy, cheesy chicken filling accented by spinach and sun-dried tomatoes then rolled and baked beneath a homemade cajun alfredo sauce. Bubbly cheese on top and a little heat inside make this a go-to when you want something both cozy and exciting.
I whipped these up on a weeknight after craving something more fun than basic casseroles. My family devoured them and now asks for roll ups more often than traditional layered lasagna because they are so easy to serve.
Ingredients
- Ricotta cheese: gives creamy richness so choose whole milk ricotta for best texture
- Parmesan cheese: provides nutty and salty bite use freshly grated for maximum flavor
- Cream cheese: adds smoothness and body to the filling go for brick style rather than whipped
- Shredded cheese blend: creates a melty topping mozzarella or Italian blend both work
- Cooked chicken breast: makes this hearty dice or shred for even distribution
- Spinach: packs in some greens thaw and squeeze dry if using frozen or chop fresh baby spinach
- Sun-dried tomatoes: deliver a tangy sweet note oil-packed ones are especially flavorful
- Garlic: brings depth to both filling and sauce use fresh and mince finely
- Cajun seasoning: gives a spicy bold kick taste yours first as some can be very salty
- Lasagna noodles: classic base boil until just tender so they roll easily
- Butter: forms the base of the alfredo sauce unsalted is preferred
- Heavy cream: creates a silky decadent sauce look for fresh cream with no additives
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Combine ricotta parmesan cream cheese and half the shredded cheese in a large mixing bowl. Add the sun-dried tomatoes spinach cajun seasoning and chicken. Mix thoroughly with a spatula until even. This step ensures the filling is creamy and full of flavor in every bite.
- Cook the Noodles:
- Fill a large pot with well salted water. Add the lasagna noodles and boil until al dente about one minute less than package directions. Drain and lay noodles flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.
- Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan melt butter over medium low heat. Add garlic and cook until just fragrant about thirty seconds. Pour in heavy cream whisking constantly. Sprinkle in cajun seasoning and add parmesan cheese whisk until cheese melts and mixture thickens slightly about five to six minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
- Assemble the Lasagna Rolls:
- Grease a large casserole dish and spread a few spoonfuls of the sauce on the bottom. Place about two thirds cup filling at the end of each noodle and roll tightly starting from the filling end. Arrange each roll seam side down in the dish nestled closely.
- Top and Bake:
- Spoon the remaining sauce over the roll ups making sure to cover every noodle. Top generously with the rest of the shredded cheese so you get a bubbly golden crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees for about thirty five minutes until edges are crisp and sauce is bubbling.
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Watching that cheese bubble up and brown on top is my favorite part and my kids love taking turns rolling the noodles together. Sun-dried tomatoes are the sleeper hit in this recipe and create little bursts of sweet tang that balance all the savory richness.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers covered in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat individual rolls in the microwave or place the whole dish back in the oven covered until warmed through. If freezing freeze baked roll ups tightly wrapped and thaw overnight before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
Turkey or rotisserie chicken work well in place of chicken breast. For a vegetarian version increase the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes and add extra cheese. Use gluten free lasagna noodles if needed. Light cream can be swapped for heavy cream but the sauce will be slightly less rich.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad dressed simply with olive oil and vinegar. Breadsticks or garlic bread are perfect for mopping up extra sauce. For a crowd double the recipe and use two pans side by side.
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Cultural and Historical Context
Lasagna roll ups are a modern twist on classic Italian baked pasta with southern American flavors layered in thanks to cajun spice and creamy sauce. Combining these traditions turns lasagna night into something new and surprising while still honoring the comforting roots of both cuisines.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → What protein is used in Cajun Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups?
Chicken breast is used for a lighter twist compared to traditional ground beef.
- → How is the Cajun flavor incorporated?
Cajun seasoning is added to both the chicken filling and the homemade alfredo sauce for warmth and spice.
- → What types of cheese are included?
The filling combines ricotta, parmesan, cream cheese, and a blend of shredded cheese for richness and creaminess.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Assemble the roll ups and sauce in advance. Store covered in the fridge, then bake when ready.
- → Are other vegetables used besides spinach?
Yes, sun-dried tomatoes and garlic add depth and a sweet-savory balance to the filling.