Introduction to Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups
Are you a young professional juggling a hectic schedule but still craving delicious, home-cooked meals? Look no further than Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups. This dish marries the comforting layers of classic lasagna with a spicy Southwestern twist — perfect for anyone looking to add a bit of flair to their weeknight dinner roster.
Why Homemade Food is the Best Choice for Young Professionals
Homemade food isn’t just about what goes in your mouth; it’s about the experience and nourishment it offers. Cooking at home allows you to control ingredients, ensuring you eat fresh and healthy. Studies show that home-cooked meals can be healthier and more affordable than dining out, which resonates with many young professionals keen on budgeting while maintaining a balanced diet.
Moreover, engaging in the cooking process can be a great stress reliever after a long day at work. There’s something incredibly rewarding about preparing meals from scratch, and with recipes like Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups, you can whip up a dish that is both quick and satisfying. The vibrant flavors will remind you that food can be exciting, and you just might impress your friends during your next dinner party!
Embrace the joy of homemade meals — trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Dive into this delightful recipe, and experience the goodness yourself.
Ingredients for Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups
Creating delicious Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups is all about having the right ingredients on hand. To help you with your culinary adventure, here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need.
Essential ingredients for the roll ups
To prepare these tasty roll ups, you’ll need:
- 1 pound dried lasagna noodles
- 19 ounces Old El Paso Red Enchilada Sauce - for that zesty kick!
- 8 ounces cream cheese - adds creaminess to the filling
- 1 ½ cups chopped cooked chicken - perfect for using up those leftovers!
- 15 ounces black beans - a great source of protein
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper - mix colorful varieties for a vibrant look
- 2 cloves garlic, minced - for aromatic flavor
- 2 ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
- ½ cup chopped scallions
- 1 packet Old El Paso Taco Seasoning - to spice things up!
Optional ingredients for customization
Don’t hesitate to get creative! Here are some optional ingredients to tailor your roll ups:
- Sliced jalapeños for an extra kick
- Spinach or kale for added nutrition
- Corn for a sweet crunch
- Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy topping
- Fresh cilantro or avocado for garnishing
Feel free to mix and match according to your preferences! Excited to get started? Let’s roll!
Preparing Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups
Creating Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups is not just about satisfying your taste buds—it's also a fun and engaging cooking experience! Let’s dive into the steps you'll need to follow to bring this delicious dish to life.
Gather and prep your ingredients
Before you get started, it's crucial to gather all your ingredients. You’ll need:
- 1 pound dried lasagna noodles
- 19 ounces Old El Paso Red Enchilada Sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 ½ cups chopped cooked chicken
- 15 ounces black beans (drained)
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper (use a mix for color)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (divided)
- ½ cup chopped scallions
- 1 Old El Paso Taco Seasoning Packet
Check your pantry for staples and enjoy some time at the grocery store selecting fresh veggies. Consider stopping by Old El Paso for quality sauces and seasonings to enhance flavor.
Cook the lasagna noodles
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once bubbling, add the lasagna noodles and cook according to the package instructions until they reach a perfect al dente. Don’t rush; letting them cook properly ensures they can hold the filling without tearing. Once cooked, lay them flat on a clean tea towel to cool slightly.
Blend the enchilada sauce and cream cheese
While your noodles cool, combine the Old El Paso Red Enchilada Sauce and cream cheese in a blender. Blitz until smooth and creamy—this will be the luscious sauce that envelops your roll ups! Pour half of this mixture into your prepared baking dish, coating the bottom to prevent sticking.
Mix the filling ingredients together
In a separate large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, drained black beans, colorful bell peppers, minced garlic, 2 cups of the shredded cheese, scallions, and the taco seasoning packet. The mix should be vibrant and inviting, a preview of the delicious Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups ahead!
Assemble and roll the lasagna noodles
Now it's time to put everything together. Spread the filling mixture evenly over each noodle, and carefully roll them up, tucking in any escaping bits. Place the rolls seam-side down in the sauce-covered baking dish to secure their deliciousness.
Bake to perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes. Just before the end, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and let it melt into a delightful golden layer. Once baked, feel free to garnish with some chopped scallions or cilantro for that extra freshness.
These Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups transform traditional flavors into a delightful experience and are perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner party with friends. Enjoy the cooking adventure!
Variations on Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups
Vegetarian Options for the Filling
Transform your Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups into a delightful vegetarian dish by substituting the chicken with a medley of mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach. Add some roasted red peppers for a touch of sweetness and flavor. Incorporate ricotta or a vegan cheese alternative to keep the creamy texture, making these roll-ups a satisfying meat-free option!
Spicy Version for Heat Lovers
For those who crave a kick, elevate your Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups by spicing up the filling! Incorporate diced jalapeños, or swap out the mild enchilada sauce for a spicy version. A touch of cayenne pepper or some fiery chipotle peppers in adobo can take your dish to the next level. Just be sure to balance the heat with the creamy cheese sauce for a delicious contrast!
Enhancing your lasagna roll-ups not only caters to your taste preferences but also invites everyone to the dinner table. Happy cooking!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups
Tips for Perfect Noodle Rolling
Achieving perfect lasagna roll ups is all about technique. After cooking the noodles, lay them flat on a clean towel to cool slightly, preventing stickiness. Take a generous scoop of filling, spread it evenly, and gently roll from one end to the other, tucking in the fillings as you go. If a noodle tears, don't panic! Just use it as a base layer in your baking dish.
Storage and Reheating Advice
These delicious Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups store beautifully. Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For freezing, allow them to cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until warmed through and cheesy. Perfect for a quick meal any day of the week!
Serving suggestions for Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups
Ideal side dishes to complement the roll ups
To elevate your Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups, consider these delightful side dishes:
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: Bursting with flavor, this salad perfectly balances the cheesy roll ups.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: A fresh and zesty option that pairs well with the Southwestern flavors.
- Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Classic and always a hit, this adds a creamy touch to your meal.
Garnishing ideas for presentation
Enhance the visual appeal of your Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups with simple garnishes:
- Chopped Cilantro or Fresh Scallions: A sprinkle of herbs adds color and freshness.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop can offer a cold contrast to the warm dish.
- Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy a kick, top with some jalapeño slices.
These thoughtful touches will make your dish not only delicious but visually enticing as well! For more ideas on sides and garnishes, check out Taste of Home for inspiration!
Time Breakdown for Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups
Preparation Time
The prep for Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups is a breeze, taking just about 20 minutes. This gives you enough time to gather all your ingredients and get everything ready for an easy assembly process.
Cooking Time
Once you've got your roll-ups in the baking dish, they’ll need to bake for approximately 30 to 35 minutes. This is the perfect time to set your kitchen timer and maybe catch up on a show or music playlist while they cook.
Total Time
In total, you're looking at around 50 to 55 minutes from start to finish. It’s a relatively quick dish that combines convenience with deliciousness, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner!
Ready to savor a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor? Let’s dive into the full recipe!
Nutritional Facts for Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups
Calories per serving
Each serving of these Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups contains approximately 389 calories, making it a satisfying option without going overboard.
Key nutritional information
In addition to the calories, each roll offers a well-rounded nutritional profile:
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 16g (Saturated Fat: 8g)
- Cholesterol: 53mg
- Sodium: 632mg
- Potassium: 320mg
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 5g
- Vitamin A: 1165IU
- Vitamin C: 17.9mg
- Calcium: 196mg
- Iron: 2mg
With a good mix of protein, fiber, and important vitamins, these Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups not only please your taste buds but also contribute to a balanced meal. For more nutritional insights, check out sources like the USDA FoodData Central for specifics on each ingredient!
FAQ about Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups
Can I use different cheeses for the roll ups?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the Mexican blend cheese with other favorites like ricotta, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Customize it to your taste! You could explore cheese combinations or even try a vegan cheese if you're going plant-based.
How long do these keep in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, your Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups can last for about 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. Just be sure to enjoy them within this time frame to savor their delightful flavors!
Can I freeze Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups?
Definitely! These lasagna roll ups are perfect for freezing. Just wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then bake for a warm, hearty meal when you need it most. This makes meal prep a breeze!
Conclusion on Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups
In summary, Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups are the perfect blend of flavor and convenience, making weeknight meals a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, these delicious rolls offer versatility and satisfaction. Dive into this tasty dish and enjoy every savory bite!
Southwest Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups
Equipment
- 9 x 13 inch baking dish
- large pot
- blender
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 pound dried lasagna noodles (1 box)
- 19 ounces Old El Paso Red Enchilada Sauce (1 can)
- 8 ounces cream cheese
Filling
- 1.5 cups chopped cooked chicken (great for using up leftovers)
- 15 ounces black beans (drained, 1 can)
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper (heaping) I used two colors
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2.5 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (divided)
- 0.5 cups chopped scallions
- 1 packet Old El Paso Taco Seasoning
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Set a large pot of salted water over high heat, and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked to al dente, lay them out on a clean tea towel.
- Meanwhile, place the Old El Paso Red Enchilada Sauce in the blender and add the cream cheese. Blend until smooth. Pour half of the cheese sauce into the baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, black beans, bell peppers, garlic, 2 cups shredded cheese, scallions, and taco seasoning. Spread the mixture evenly over 12 lasagna noodles. Roll each noodle, tucking bits back into the rolls if they fall out. Place the rolls in the baking dish. Once all the rolls are in the dish, pour the remaining sauce over the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, then sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Garnish with chopped scallions or cilantro if desired.
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