Lasagna Roll Ups are a fun twist on the classic dish! Soft pasta sheets are filled with creamy cheese, flavorful meat or veggies, and rolled up, all topped with rich sauce.
These little rolls are like pasta’s cute cousins! I love serving them with a sprinkle of cheese on top for that bubbly goodness. It’s comfort food that never goes out of style!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional flat noodles are great for this recipe. You can also use no-boil lasagna noodles or gluten-free alternatives if needed. Just make sure they are cooked or soaked properly according to the package instructions.
Ground Beef or Sausage: You can easily switch to ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For vegetarian rolls, try using lentils or a mix of chopped mushrooms and spinach for added flavor and texture.
Ricotta Cheese: If you can’t find ricotta, use cottage cheese blended until smooth. You could also try cream cheese for a richer filling but add a bit of milk or cream to thin it out.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is fine, but homemade always tastes better! You can substitute with any tomato-based sauce you prefer, like arrabbiata or a roasted pepper sauce for a unique twist.
How Do I Roll Lasagna Noodles Without Breaking Them?
Rolling lasagna noodles can be tricky, but with a bit of practice, you’ll master it! Here are some tips:
- Make sure the noodles are cooked just until al dente. This means they’ll still have a slight bite, which helps prevent breakage.
- Lay each noodle flat on a clean surface. Use a little flour or olive oil on your hands to prevent sticking.
- Spread your filling evenly, leaving the edges clear. This ensures a tight roll.
- Start at one end and gently roll towards the other, applying even pressure.
- Place seam-side down in your baking dish to hold the rolls together.
With these tips, you’re on your way to making perfect Lasagna Roll Ups! Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious results!
How to Make Delicious Lasagna Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roll Ups:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 2 cups marinara sauce (divided)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 45 minutes in total. You’ll need 10 minutes for preparation, about 25 minutes for baking, and a little time to let everything come together. The wait is so worth it when you dig into these comforting rolls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will make sure it’s nice and hot when you pop the lasagna roll ups in!
2. Prepare the Lasagna Noodles:
Cook the lasagna noodles following the package instructions until they are al dente. This means they should have a little firmness to them. Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a sheet of parchment paper or foil so they don’t stick together.
3. Make the Meat Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage along with the minced garlic. Stir until the meat is browned, then drain any excess fat. Stir in 1 cup of the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes and then take it off the heat to cool slightly.
4. Prepare the Cheese Filling:
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
5. Assemble the Roll Ups:
Now it’s time to fill the noodles! Spread a thin layer of the ricotta mixture across each cooked noodle, leaving the edges clear. Then, evenly distribute the meat sauce over the ricotta. Roll up each noodle carefully, starting from one end and rolling tightly. Place the roll seam-side down in a baking dish (9×13 size works well).
6. Add the Sauce:
Pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce over all the rolled noodles. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese on top for that stretchy, cheesy finish!
7. Bake:
Cover your baking dish with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
When you take the lasagna roll ups out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy your cheesy, saucy Lasagna Roll Ups! They’re perfect for family dinners or when you want something comforting and delicious!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Lasagna Noodles?
Absolutely! Whole wheat lasagna noodles are a healthier option and will work just as well. Just be sure to cook them according to the package instructions, as they may have slightly different cooking times.
Can I Make These Lasagna Roll Ups Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make them vegetarian! Substitute the ground meat with sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini. You can also add some cooked lentils or beans for added protein!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Lasagna Roll Ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or heat them in the microwave until hot.
Can I Freeze Lasagna Roll Ups?
Definitely! You can freeze the assembled roll ups before baking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Bake them from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
