Imagine twirling your fork into a perfectly rolled pasta creation that combines the rich, creamy essence of three cheeses with a vibrant marinara sauce that promises to transport you straight to the heart of Italy. These Pasta Pinwheel Rolls are not just a meal; they're a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary pasta into an extraordinary dining experience that will impress both family and guests alike!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 250g pasta sheets
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your pasta pinwheel rolls bake evenly and thoroughly.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta sheets and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente, usually about 5-7 minutes. Drain the pasta sheets and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and form a creamy filling.
- Take one pasta sheet and spread a generous amount of the cheese mixture evenly over the surface, leaving about half an inch around the edges. This will help prevent the filling from spilling out when you roll it.
- Starting from one end, carefully roll the pasta sheet tightly into a log shape. Repeat this process for all the pasta sheets, ensuring that each roll is filled and tightly packed.
- Once all the pasta rolls are prepared, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking. Place the rolled pasta seam-side down in the dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the pasta pinwheel rolls, making sure they are well coated. You can sprinkle a little extra mozzarella cheese on top for added flavor and a nice golden finish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. This will help the flavors meld and the cheese to melt.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will make it easier to slice and serve the pinwheel rolls.
- Garnish with fresh basil or additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Pasta Pinwheel Rolls with Creamy Tomato Sauce!
Tips
- Use fresh pasta sheets for the best texture and easier rolling
- Ensure your cheese mixture is well-blended for a consistent, creamy filling
- Don't overfill the pasta sheets to prevent spillage during rolling
- Let the rolls rest for a few minutes after baking to make cutting easier
- For extra flavor, try adding finely chopped herbs like basil or parsley to the cheese mixture
- If the pasta sheets are too stiff, briefly warm them to make rolling more manageable
- Use a sharp knife to create clean, beautiful slices when serving
- Experiment with different cheese combinations for unique flavor profiles
- Serve immediately for the best melted cheese experience
- Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 55mg
