Lasagna Roll Ups

There’s something truly special about Lasagna Roll Ups that brings a warmth to the heart and the table. Picture this: a cool fall evening, the scent of rich marinara sauce bubbling away, and the anticipation building as family gathers around. I often find myself reminiscing about the first time I made this dish for my loved ones. I wanted to create something that was not just a meal, but an experience—a moment filled with laughter and stories shared over heaping plates of cheesy goodness. As I rolled each noodle filled with a delicious combination of creamy ricotta and savory ground beef, I could already hear the excited chatter of my family, eagerly waiting to dig in. This dish is more than just food; it’s a celebration. And the best part? It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for a special occasion.

What Goes Into Lasagna Roll Ups

The ingredients for Lasagna Roll Ups work together beautifully, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that are sure to please. Each component adds its unique charm, from the tender lasagna noodles to the creamy ricotta filling. Let’s break down what makes this dish so special.

• 12 dry lasagna noodles – The foundation of any good lasagna. These noodles, when cooked al dente, provide the perfect rollable canvas for the flavorful filling.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds richness and helps sauté the onions, creating a flavor base for the sauce.
• ½ onion, chopped – Brings sweetness and depth to the filling, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided – Essential for seasoning the filling and the boiling water for the noodles.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – A key aromatic that adds a fragrant touch to the meat sauce.
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning – This blend of herbs elevates the dish with a classic Italian flavor.
• 1 pound ground beef – The main protein that brings heartiness to the dish.
• 24 ounces marinara sauce – A rich, flavorful sauce that ties the entire dish together.
• 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese – Creamy and rich, it forms the base of the filling that complements the meat sauce.
• 3½ cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese, divided – Melts beautifully, creating that gooey texture we all love in lasagna.
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the cheesy goodness.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley and/or basil – Fresh herbs brighten the dish and add a pop of color.
• 1 large egg – Helps bind the cheese mixture together, ensuring every bite is cohesive.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – A touch of spice that rounds out the flavors nicely.

How to Assemble Lasagna Roll Ups

Making Lasagna Roll Ups is a delightful process that allows you to express your creativity in the kitchen. Follow these steps for a satisfying experience.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking. This ensures your rolls come out easily later on.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the lasagna noodles and cook according to the package directions until al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes.
3. Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Lay the noodles flat on a parchment paper-lined sheet pan to prevent sticking.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and kosher salt. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base for your meat sauce.
5. Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can become bitter.
6. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula to ensure even cooking. This should take about 7 to 10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
7. Pour in the marinara sauce and stir well to combine with the meat. Let this mixture cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Once combined, remove the skillet from the heat and set aside.
8. In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1½ cups of mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, chopped herbs, egg, remaining kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Stir until well combined, creating a creamy filling.
9. Spread a thin layer (about ½ cup) of the meat sauce on the bottom of your greased baking dish. This layer prevents the bottom noodles from sticking.
10. For each noodle, spread 3 to 4 tablespoons of the cheese mixture evenly over the surface. Then, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of the meat sauce over the cheese filling.
11. Carefully roll up each noodle, starting from one end and rolling towards the other, ensuring the filling stays inside. Place the rolls seam-side down in the baking dish.
12. Once all the noodles are rolled and in the dish, pour the remaining meat sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese generously on top.
13. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the cheese. This helps to steam the rolls and keep them moist during baking.
14. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are nicely browned and the cheese is bubbly. If desired, broil the lasagna for 1 to 2 minutes to get the tops extra toasty.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about Lasagna Roll Ups is how adaptable they are. Here are some great ways to make them your own:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables like zucchini and spinach for a lighter version.
• Different Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, for a unique twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes into the meat sauce for a touch of heat.
• Herb Variations: Swap fresh parsley and basil for other herbs like dill or thyme for a different flavor profile.
• Meat Sauce Variations: You can use a mix of meats, like turkey or chicken, in place of beef for a different taste.
• Freezing: These roll ups freeze well! Just assemble and freeze before baking, then bake straight from the freezer when needed.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying Lasagna Roll Ups, there are plenty of delightful ways to serve them. Here are some ideas:

• With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm, buttery garlic bread for a truly comforting meal.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagna.
• Wine Pairing: Pair with a smooth white wine or a refreshing sparkling drink to balance the flavors.
• Perfect for Gatherings: These are great for family dinners or potlucks where you want to impress without too much fuss.
• Freezing Leftovers: Leftover roll ups can be frozen for later enjoyment. Just store in an airtight container for up to three months.
• Garnish with Herbs: Sprinkle fresh herbs on top before serving for a burst of color and flavor.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Lasagna Roll Ups are truly a delightful dish that brings together comfort, flavor, and creativity. They are perfect for family gatherings or an easy weeknight meal. I encourage you to try making this recipe tonight and enjoy the warmth it brings to your table.

Lasagna Roll Ups

The ultimate comfort food is here with Lasagna Roll Ups. These delightful rolls are filled with creamy ricotta, savory ground beef, and topped with a bubbling layer of mozzarella. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, you'll love how easy they are to make. Get ready to savor the cheesy goodness tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 12 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• 9×13 Baking Pan

Ingredients

  

• 12 pieces dry lasagna noodles
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ onion chopped onion
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt divided
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 pound ground beef
• 24 ounces marinara sauce (1 jar)
• 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese (1 container)
• 3½ cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese divided
• ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley and/or basil
• 1 large egg
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the lasagna noodles and cook according to the package directions until al dente.
• Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Lay the noodles flat on a parchment paper-lined sheet pan.
• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and kosher salt. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 30 seconds.
• Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
• Pour in the marinara sauce and stir well. Remove the skillet from the heat.
• In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1½ cups of mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, chopped herbs, egg, remaining kosher salt, and ground black pepper.
• Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of your greased baking dish.
• For each noodle, spread 3 to 4 tablespoons of the cheese mixture evenly over the surface. Then, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of the meat sauce over the cheese filling.
• Carefully roll up each noodle and place seam-side down in the baking dish.
• Pour the remaining meat sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
• Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 to 15 minutes.

Notes

• Tip 1: Use only dry lasagna noodles for the best results.
• Tip 2: Leaner ground beef works well too, so feel free to experiment.

Keyword Cheesy pasta rolls, easy lasagna recipe, Italian Comfort Food, Lasagna Roll Ups

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Meet Romina Scott

Welcome to my kitchen. I founded Recipes By Romina with a simple goal: to share the fresh, vibrant, and reliable flavors that I love most. I personally develop and approve every single dish on this site to ensure it is not only delicious but also easy for you to recreate at home. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dessert, I hope this recipe inspires you to grab an apron and get cooking!