Lasagna Roll Ups are a fun twist on the classic dish! They are filled with cheesy goodness and packed with flavors that everyone loves. Easy to make, they are perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering.
What I love most is how they look on the plate—like little pasta presents! Sometimes I sneak a few right from the baking dish. Who can resist that melty cheese? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional flat lasagna noodles work best. You can opt for no-boil noodles or even zucchini ribbons for a healthier twist.
Ground Beef/Sausage: Swap for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, you can use lentils or chopped mushrooms.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade is great too. If you’re low on time, any tomato-based sauce works well—just make sure it’s flavorful.
Cheese: Ricotta gives a creamy texture, but cottage cheese can work in a pinch! Feel free to use vegan cheese alternatives if you’re dairy-free.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds vitamins. You could use frozen, just make sure to squeeze out excess water after thawing!
How Do I Keep My Lasagna Roll Ups from Falling Apart?
Keeping your roll ups intact can be tricky but not impossible! Here are some helpful tips:
- Cook the lasagna noodles al dente. This prevents them from being too soft and falling apart when rolling.
- Spread the filling evenly but not too thick on the noodles. A thicker layer can lead to messy rolls.
- Roll them tightly but gently. This ensures they stay together without tearing.
- Place them seam side down in the baking dish. This helps keep them from unraveling.
With these tips, you’ll have beautiful and sturdy Lasagna Roll Ups ready to impress!
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 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 40 minutes to cook, totaling about 55 minutes until your delicious Lasagna Roll Ups are ready to serve. Perfect for a hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Noodles:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles until they are al dente, which should be according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean towel to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Meat:
In a skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant for about 1 minute. Then, add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Cook it until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, drain it off. Stir in 1 cup of the marinara sauce, mix it well, and cook for another 2-3 minutes before removing it from the heat.
3. Make the Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, the egg, chopped spinach, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined!
4. Assemble the Roll Ups:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Take one lasagna noodle and spread about 1/2 cup of the ricotta mixture evenly over it. Then, spoon some of the meat and marinara mixture over the cheese layer. Gently roll up the noodle from one end to the other. Repeat this process for all the noodles.
5. Bake Your Roll Ups:
Spread the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of your greased baking dish. Place the rolled-up noodles seam side down in the dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Final Baking Touches:
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Once done, carefully remove the dish from the oven, and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups warm and savor every bite!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Lasagna Noodles?
Absolutely! Gluten-free lasagna noodles work just as well. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking, as they may vary slightly from traditional noodles.
How Can I Store Leftover Lasagna Roll Ups?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them! Just wrap individual roll ups in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make These Roll Ups Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Substitute the ground beef or sausage with a mixture of chopped mushrooms, lentils, or any favorite vegetables. For added flavor, sauté them with some herbs and spices.
What to Serve with Lasagna Roll Ups?
Lasagna Roll Ups pair well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. They also taste great with extra marinara or a light drizzle of olive oil if desired!
