Mediterranean Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potato & Cranberry Lasagna Rolls with Ricotta
This lasagna roll-up recipe transforms classic Italian comfort food into a Mediterranean-inspired dish with roasted sweet potatoes, tart cranberries, and creamy ricotta. The sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness, the cranberries add tangy pops, and the ricotta layer gives a smooth, luscious texture. A touch of cinnamon rounds out the flavors, enhancing the warm Mediterranean spices. This dish looks elegant on the table yet is surprisingly easy to prepare.
These lasagna rolls are ideal for a festive lunch or dinner, or even for meal prep because they can be made ahead and baked when needed. The filling is versatile, the flavors balanced, and the dish is a crowd-pleaser for both vegetarians and meat-eaters. The combination of sweet, tangy, and herby elements makes each bite satisfying and layered.
Prep: 25 minutes
Roasting sweet potatoes: 20 minutes
Assembling and baking: 30 minutes
Total: 75 minutes
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potato Filling
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
For the Ricotta Filling
1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Salt and black pepper to taste
Other Ingredients
8–10 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
1 cup marinara sauce
¼ cup shredded mozzarella (optional)
Extra parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Toss diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, cinnamon, and salt. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes until tender.
In a medium bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, parsley, vanilla, salt, and pepper.
Stir roasted sweet potatoes and cranberries into the ricotta mixture.
Lay cooked lasagna noodles flat on a clean surface.
Spread a generous layer of the sweet potato-ricotta mixture onto each noodle.
Roll up each noodle tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
Pour marinara sauce evenly over the rolls and sprinkle mozzarella on top, if using.
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips
Roast sweet potatoes evenly for consistent texture; cut into similar sizes.
Use high-quality ricotta for creaminess and flavor.
Allow roasted sweet potatoes to cool slightly before mixing to prevent watery filling.
Don’t overcook noodles; they should be pliable but firm.
Roll noodles tightly to keep filling contained.
Use a silicone or nonstick baking dish to prevent sticking.
Cover with foil while baking to keep moisture in; remove at the end for browning.
Taste the ricotta mixture before assembling; adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness.
Let rolls rest for 5–10 minutes after baking so they hold their shape.
Variations
Add toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Swap cranberries for chopped dried apricots for a sweeter bite.
Add a pinch of nutmeg for additional warmth.
Include sautéed spinach or kale for extra greens.
Replace ricotta with goat cheese for tangier flavor.
Use pumpkin puree instead of sweet potato for a fall-inspired twist.
Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the filling for a more herbaceous note.
Make it vegan: use plant-based ricotta and omit mozzarella.
Layer with roasted red peppers for added sweetness and color.
Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for a tangy finish.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, assemble the rolls and refrigerate for a few hours before baking.
Can I freeze these lasagna rolls?
Yes, wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra 10 minutes.
Do I have to use cinnamon?
No, but it complements the sweet potatoes and cranberries beautifully.
Can I use pre-made lasagna sheets?
Yes. Just cook according to package instructions first.
Can I skip cranberries?
Yes, you can substitute with raisins, apricots, or leave them out for a savory version.
What can I serve them with?
Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
Is this vegetarian?
Yes. Use vegetarian marinara to keep it fully vegetarian.
Can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture.
Can I use mozzarella in the filling?
Yes, a small amount can make the filling stretchier.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Cover with foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15–20 minutes.
Nutrition
(per serving, approx.)
Calories: 320
Protein: 14g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 10g
Sodium: 450mg
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Cinnamon Roasted Sweet Potato & Cranberry Lasagna Rolls with Ricotta turn simple ingredients into a festive, flavorful dish. The combination of sweet roasted vegetables, tart cranberries, creamy ricotta, and a touch of cinnamon brings layers of flavor in every bite. Easy to assemble, adaptable, and visually impressive, they work well for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or make-ahead lunches. With multiple variations and the ability to freeze or prep ahead, this dish is versatile and reliable, offering a unique Mediterranean twist on a classic Italian favorite.