Lasagna Roll Ups are a fun twist on the classic dish! You take creamy cheese filling and roll it up in pasta, then bake it in marinara sauce until bubbly and hot.
These roll ups are perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing friends. I love making extra for leftovers—you know, because it’s way too hard to eat just one! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles work best, but you can use no-boil noodles for a quicker option. Just cook them slightly less when boiling.
Ground Beef: You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal. Lentils or crumbled mushrooms make a great vegetarian substitute, adding texture and flavor.
Ricotta Cheese: If you’re not a fan of ricotta, cottage cheese is a good alternative. To keep it creamy, blend it a bit before using. You can also replace it with cream cheese if you want a rich flavor.
Marinara Sauce: Feel free to use homemade marinara or store-bought. If you’re short on time, a jarred pasta sauce will do the trick. You might also enjoy a spicy arrabbiata sauce for an extra kick.
How Do You Roll the Lasagna Noodles Without Breaking Them?
Rolling lasagna noodles can seem tricky, but it’s easy once you get the hang of it. Using cooked (and slightly cooled) noodles helps prevent breakage. Here are a few tips:
- Make sure the noodles are cooked al dente, so they don’t overly soften and tear.
- Lay the noodle flat and spread the cheese mixture evenly, leaving a small border. This makes it easier to roll.
- Roll gently and tightly from one end to the other. If you feel resistance, don’t force it! Just adjust.
- Placing the seam side down in the baking dish helps keep the roll ups together.
Enjoy your roll ups and don’t stress too much—every roll is a chance to perfect your technique!
How to Make Lasagna Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For Lasagna Roll Ups:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce, divided
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 20 minutes to prep and about 35 minutes to cook, giving you a total of around 55 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, take a moment to lightly grease a baking dish—this helps prevent sticking later on.
2. Cook the Noodles:
Next, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. When they’re done, drain them and lay them flat on a baking sheet to prevent any sticking. It’s okay if they cool down a bit; just don’t let them dry out!
3. Cook the Meat:
In a large skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it’s fragrant. Next, add the ground beef, cooking until it’s browned and crumbled. Season this mixture with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Afterward, drain any excess fat, then stir in 1 cup of marinara sauce. Remove the skillet from heat.
4. Make the Cheese Mixture:
In another bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and chopped parsley. Add a pinch of salt and pepper, and mix well until everything is smooth and blended.
5. Assemble the Roll Ups:
Now, it’s time to assemble! Take each lasagna noodle and spread about 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture along its length. Top that with a generous scoop of the meat sauce. Carefully roll up the noodle from one end to the other, making sure the filling stays inside.
6. Line the Baking Dish:
Spread the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the greased baking dish. Then, place the rolled noodles seam side down in the dish, fitting them snugly side by side.
7. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of all the roll ups. This will create a lovely, cheesy layer when baked!
8. Bake:
Cover the dish with foil and pop it in the oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your delicious lasagna roll ups with some extra chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty, flavorful meal!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Lasagna Noodles?
Yes, gluten-free lasagna noodles work great for this recipe! Just follow the cooking instructions on the package to ensure they’re cooked perfectly before rolling.
How to Store Leftover Lasagna Roll Ups?
Store any leftover roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven until heated through.
Can I Freeze Lasagna Roll Ups?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked roll ups by assembling them and then wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just bake from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
What Can I Substitute for Ground Beef?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken work well. For a vegetarian alternative, consider using sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a mix of your favorite veggies!
