Lasagna Roll Ups

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that brings the family together, these Lasagna Roll Ups are just the ticket! They combine all the rich flavors of classic lasagna but in a fun, easy-to-serve format. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table. Plus, they’re great for meal prep and can even be shared with friends or neighbors!

Imagine each bite filled with creamy cheese and savory meat sauce, all wrapped up in tender lasagna noodles. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can whip this up without stress.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness rolled into each bite!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these roll-ups ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of rich marinara and three types of cheese creates an irresistible taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a potluck or a neighborly gift, these roll-ups are easy to transport.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the joy of cooking! Here’s what you need for these delicious Lasagna Roll Ups:

For the Noodles and Meat Sauce

• 12 lasagna noodles (cooked to package instructions)
• 16 oz ground beef (85% lean)
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp sea salt (or to taste for red sauce)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

For the Cheese Filling

• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (shredded)
• 3 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded, divided)
• 1/4 cup parsley (chopped, plus more to garnish)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Incorporate sautéed spinach or mushrooms into the cheese filling for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a bit of heat.
• Go vegan: Substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use lentils or mushrooms as a filling.

How to Make Lasagna Roll Ups

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by preheating your oven to 375˚F. In a large pot of salted water, cook those lasagna noodles according to package instructions until they are al dente—this means they should still have some bite to them. After draining, toss them in cold water to stop cooking. This step helps prevent sticking later!

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a deep pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook your ground beef until it’s no longer pink—about two minutes. Make sure to break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Next, add in your diced onion and let it soften for about three minutes. Then stir in minced garlic along with salt, pepper, and oregano; cooking just long enough for those wonderful aromas to fill your kitchen. Finally, pour in the marinara sauce and bring everything to a gentle simmer before removing from heat. Spread half a cup of this meat sauce over the bottom of your casserole dish—it will keep your roll-ups from sticking!

Step 3: Mix Up the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese with an egg, shredded Parmesan cheese, 1 ½ cups of mozzarella cheese, and chopped parsley. Mixing these ingredients together not only builds flavor but also creates that creamy filling that makes every bite heavenly.

Step 4: Roll It Up

To minimize mess, lay out your cooked noodles on a large baking sheet in a single layer. Take about ¼ cup of your cheese mixture and spread it evenly across each noodle. Then add a heaping tablespoon of meat sauce down the center before rolling it up tightly. Place each rolled noodle seam-side down into your prepared casserole dish.

Step 5: Top It Off

Spread any remaining meat sauce over the top of your roll-ups and sprinkle on that last bit of mozzarella cheese—because who doesn’t love more cheese? Cover with foil carefully so it doesn’t touch the cheese; if needed, you can stick toothpicks in place to keep it off.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake covered at 375˚F for about 40 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and switch on the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes until that cheese is beautifully golden brown! Finally, garnish with more parsley before serving.

And there you have it—delicious Lasagna Roll Ups that are not only comforting but also fun to eat! Enjoy sharing this delightful recipe with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Lasagna Roll Ups

Making Lasagna Roll Ups can be a delightful experience, especially when you follow some handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Prep Ahead: Consider making the meat sauce and cheese filling a day in advance. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your roll-ups.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh parsley or basil into the cheese mixture infuses a burst of flavor, making each bite more aromatic and vibrant.

• Avoid Overcooking Noodles: Cooking your noodles just to al dente ensures they won’t fall apart when rolling. If they’re too soft, you’ll end up with mushy roll-ups that are hard to manage.

• Layer Wisely: Spreading the meat sauce evenly on top of the roll-ups helps keep them moist while baking. It also creates a lovely, saucy finish that adds flavor with every bite.

• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix up the cheeses in your filling! Adding provolone or ricotta with herbs can take your lasagna roll ups from ordinary to extraordinary.

How to Serve Lasagna Roll Ups

Serving Lasagna Roll Ups can be as fun as making them! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create an inviting presentation that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Basil: Sprinkle some chopped basil over the top just before serving for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A light dusting of grated Parmesan adds a gourmet touch and enhances the cheese flavor in your dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, offering crushed red pepper flakes on the side allows guests to customize their spice level.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic pairing is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate. Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread complements the rich flavors of lasagna roll-ups beautifully.

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy dressing balances out the richness of the roll-ups. The crunch adds texture and freshness to your meal.

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious side that brightens up your plate. Its mild flavor pairs well with Italian dishes and adds a pop of color.

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots can add depth to your meal. The caramelization brings out natural sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory lasagna roll-ups.

With these serving ideas and pro tips, you’ll have everything you need for an enjoyable dining experience featuring your delicious Lasagna Roll Ups!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Lasagna Roll Ups are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip them up in advance and enjoy them throughout the week or share with friends and family. Here’s how to store and keep these delicious roll ups fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the roll ups to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate.
• They will keep well for about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing

• Cool the roll ups fully if you plan to freeze them.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for reference!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 375˚F (190˚C).
• Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can uncover it during the last few minutes to get that cheese bubbly!

FAQs

If you have questions about making these Lasagna Roll Ups, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use gluten-free noodles for Lasagna Roll Ups?

Absolutely! Gluten-free lasagna noodles work perfectly for this recipe. Just follow package instructions for cooking time.

How do I make Lasagna Roll Ups ahead of time?

You can assemble everything, cover it tightly, and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, prep and freeze them as mentioned above!

What sauces pair well with Lasagna Roll Ups?

While marinara is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with pesto or a creamy Alfredo sauce if you want something different.

Can I add vegetables to my Lasagna Roll Ups?

Definitely! Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms make excellent additions. Just sauté them before adding to your cheese mixture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Lasagna Roll Ups as much as I do! They’re not only delicious but also versatile and perfect for sharing. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a meal prep success story, these roll ups are sure to bring smiles. So grab your ingredients and get rolling—happy cooking!