Mediterranean Pumpkin & Spinach Lasagna Rolls with Brie & Walnuts
Mediterranean Pumpkin & Spinach Lasagna Rolls with Brie & Walnuts are a cozy, elegant twist on traditional lasagna. Instead of layered sheets, tender pasta is rolled around a creamy pumpkin and spinach filling, then baked in a light herbed sauce until bubbling and golden. Brie melts into the filling, adding richness without overpowering the vegetables, while walnuts bring subtle crunch and warmth. This dish feels comforting yet refined, making it perfect for a vegetarian main course, a holiday table, or a relaxed weekend dinner. Rooted in Mediterranean cooking, it highlights seasonal vegetables, olive oil, herbs, and balanced flavors rather than heaviness.
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Serves: 4 to 6
Ingredients
For the Lasagna Rolls
12 lasagna noodles
1½ cups pumpkin purée
2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
¾ cup Brie cheese, rind removed and diced
½ cup ricotta cheese
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
⅓ cup walnuts, finely chopped
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried sage
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce
1½ cups whole milk or half and half
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon all purpose flour
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and black pepper to taste
For Finishing
Extra grated Parmesan
Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles until just al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a clean towel to prevent sticking.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted and moisture has evaporated. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a bowl, combine pumpkin purée, cooked spinach, ricotta, Brie, Parmesan, walnuts, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined.
To make the sauce, melt butter and olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
Spread a thin layer of sauce over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Lay out one lasagna noodle and spread about 2 tablespoons of filling evenly along its length. Roll it up gently and place seam side down in the dish. Repeat with remaining noodles.
Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the lasagna rolls, ensuring they are well coated.
Sprinkle extra Parmesan over the top. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes until the top is lightly golden and the sauce is bubbling. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips
Cook noodles just until tender to prevent tearing while rolling.
Remove the rind from Brie for a smoother filling.
Let spinach cool before mixing to avoid excess moisture.
Use pure pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling.
Chop walnuts finely so they distribute evenly.
Don’t overfill the noodles or they may unroll.
Whisk sauce constantly for a smooth texture.
Let the dish rest before serving to set the rolls.
Use fresh herbs for a brighter finish.
Serve with a crisp green salad for balance.
Variations
Swap pumpkin for roasted butternut squash purée.
Add sautéed mushrooms for extra depth.
Use goat cheese instead of Brie for tang.
Replace walnuts with pecans or pine nuts.
Add a layer of marinara instead of cream sauce.
Stir in lemon zest for brightness.
Use gluten free lasagna noodles if needed.
Add chili flakes for gentle heat.
Top with mozzarella for extra melt.
Make it vegan using dairy free cheeses and plant milk.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to one day ahead.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze unbaked for up to two months.
What pumpkin purée works best?
Homemade or high quality canned purée works well.
Is this dish heavy?
It’s rich but balanced by vegetables and portion size.
Can I add meat?
Yes, cooked sausage or chicken can be added.
How do I prevent watery filling?
Cook spinach thoroughly to remove moisture.
What sides pair well?
A simple arugula salad or roasted vegetables.
Can I use fresh pasta sheets?
Yes, cut them to size before rolling.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat covered in the oven or microwave gently.
Is this kid friendly?
Yes, the creamy filling is mild and comforting.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 460
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 26g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 6g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Pumpkin & Spinach Lasagna Rolls with Brie & Walnuts bring warmth, elegance, and comfort to the table in one beautiful dish. The creamy pumpkin filling, melty Brie, and crunchy walnuts create layers of flavor and texture that feel indulgent yet balanced. Perfect for entertaining or a special family meal, this recipe shows how Mediterranean inspired cooking can turn simple ingredients into something memorable and deeply satisfying.