Lasagna Roll Ups

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, these Lasagna Roll Ups are exactly what you need! They’re just as delightful as classic lasagna but come with the added bonus of being much easier to serve and enjoy. Imagine rolling up rich, cheesy goodness in soft noodles and then baking them to perfection—how can anyone resist?

This recipe has been a family favorite in my home for years. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, these Lasagna Roll Ups make everyone smile. Plus, they keep well, so you can make them ahead of time or share some love with your neighbors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple steps, this dish comes together faster than traditional lasagna.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy filling and savory meat sauce!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake when you’re ready to eat.
• Portion Control: Each roll is perfectly portioned—no fighting over who gets the biggest slice!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for these Lasagna Roll Ups is easy! You’ll find that they are all wholesome, simple items that you likely already have on hand. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

• 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
• 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

One of the things I adore about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what your family enjoys or what you have in your pantry. Here are some tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Incorporate spinach or zucchini into the cheese mixture for extra nutrition.
• Try different cheeses: Mix in some goat cheese or feta for a unique flavor twist.
• Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce if you like a little heat!

How to Make Lasagna Roll Ups

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by preheating your oven to 375˚F. Cook those lasagna noodles in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Be careful not to overcook them! Once done, drain and rinse them under cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps them from sticking together.

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—this should take about two minutes. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Then, add in diced onion and sauté until softened. Toss in minced garlic along with sea salt, black pepper, and dried oregano for an aromatic base. Finally, mix in your marinara sauce before bringing everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, one egg, shredded parmesan cheese, one and a half cups of mozzarella cheese, and chopped parsley. Stir until everything is well mixed—this creamy filling is about to make your roll ups irresistible!

Step 4: Roll It Up

To keep things tidy while rolling, lay out your cooked noodles on a large baking sheet in a single layer. Spread about one-quarter cup of the cheese mixture over each noodle followed by a heaping tablespoon of meat sauce down the center. Now it’s time to roll them up tight! Place each rolled noodle seam-side down in your prepared casserole dish.

Step 5: Top It Off

Spread any remaining meat sauce over the tops of your beautiful roll ups and sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil—just make sure it isn’t touching the cheese! If needed, use toothpicks to keep it away.

Step 6: Bake Until Perfect

Place your dish in the oven covered for about 40 minutes at that lovely temperature of 375˚F. Once that time is up, remove the foil and broil for an additional two to three minutes until the cheese turns beautifully golden brown. Garnish with extra parsley before serving!

Now you’re ready to enjoy delicious Lasagna Roll Ups that will warm hearts at any table!

Pro Tips for Making Lasagna Roll Ups

Making Lasagna Roll Ups is a fun and straightforward process, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your dish to perfection!

• Prep Ahead: Prepare the cheese mixture and meat sauce a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and saves you time on busy weeknights.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs and high-quality marinara sauce. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor profile of your roll ups and make them even more delicious.
• Don’t Overfill: When spreading the cheese mixture and meat sauce on the noodles, be careful not to overfill. A little goes a long way, ensuring your roll ups stay neat and don’t burst while baking.
• Adjust Cooking Time for Your Oven: Every oven is different! If you find your cheese isn’t browning as expected after broiling, feel free to add a few extra minutes under the broiler — just keep a close eye to avoid burning.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative! You can swap in different cheeses or mix in some sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini into the cheese mixture for added nutrition.

How to Serve Lasagna Roll Ups

Presenting your Lasagna Roll Ups beautifully can turn a simple meal into a special occasion. Here are some delightful ideas to serve this dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil adds a burst of color and aromatic flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan: A light dusting of freshly grated Parmesan on top just before serving adds richness and an appealing look.
• Balsamic Reduction: Drizzle a balsamic reduction around the plate for an elegant touch that enhances both flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your roll ups.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of lasagna roll ups.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper, roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli provide a colorful and nutritious side that pairs wonderfully with Italian dishes.
• Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans drizzled with olive oil or lemon juice add brightness to your plate while keeping it healthy.

With these serving tips and side ideas, you’re all set to impress family or friends at your next dinner gathering. Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Lasagna Roll Ups are perfect for meal prep! Not only do they taste amazing, but they also store well, making them a great option for busy weeknights or when you want to have something delicious on hand. Here’s how to keep your roll ups fresh and flavorful.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover roll ups in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To maintain the best quality, cover with foil or plastic wrap before sealing.

Freezing

• Allow the roll ups to cool completely before freezing.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen roll ups to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated roll ups, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen roll ups, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, covered with foil.
• Check that they are heated all the way through before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Lasagna Roll Ups that might help you make this dish even better!

Can I use whole wheat lasagna noodles for Lasagna Roll Ups?

Absolutely! Whole wheat noodles add extra fiber and nutrients while still providing that classic lasagna texture. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions carefully as they might require slightly different cooking times.

How can I make Lasagna Roll Ups healthier?

You can easily lighten up Lasagna Roll Ups by using lean ground beef or substituting it with ground turkey or chicken. Additionally, feel free to load up on veggies like spinach or zucchini in your cheese mixture!

Can I prepare Lasagna Roll Ups ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble Lasagna Roll Ups ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storing and reheating instructions provided above for best results.

What can I serve with Lasagna Roll Ups?

These delicious roll ups pair well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. They make a complete meal that’s sure to impress!

Are there vegetarian options for Lasagna Roll Ups?

You can easily make vegetarian Lasagna Roll Ups by omitting the meat and adding more cheese or various vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach instead. This way, you get all that wonderful flavor without any meat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Lasagna Roll Ups as much as I do! They’re not just easy to prepare; they’re also comforting and satisfying—a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them as leftovers throughout the week, I’m sure they’ll bring smiles all around. Happy cooking!