Description
Lasagna Roll-Ups are a fun, easy-to-make twist on traditional lasagna, offering perfectly portioned servings packed with rich flavors. Each roll is filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, savory meat, and gooey melted cheese, then baked in marinara sauce to perfection. This dish is great for meal prep, making it a convenient and delicious option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Who is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
✔️ Busy families looking for a quick and delicious dinner option.
✔️ Meal preppers who want a freezer-friendly meal.
✔️ Anyone who loves classic Italian flavors but wants an easier, portioned version of lasagna.
✔️ Cheese lovers who enjoy a creamy, cheesy, and savory dish.
Why It’s Great
✅ Easy to Serve – No need to cut into messy layers; each roll-up is a perfect portion.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – These roll-ups freeze well, making them ideal for meal prep.
✅ Customizable – Swap the meat for Italian sausage, chicken, or a vegetarian alternative.
✅ Perfect for Gatherings – A crowd-pleasing dish that looks great on any table.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- ½ lb ground beef, cooked and crumbled (or substitute with Italian sausage)
- 2 tsp garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (for topping)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
✔️ Large pot (for boiling noodles)
✔️ Strainer (for draining noodles)
✔️ Mixing bowl
✔️ 9×13 inch baking dish
✔️ Spoon or spatula
✔️ Aluminum foil
✔️ Oven
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Prepare Noodles – Cook the lasagna noodles until al dente, drain, and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.
3️⃣ Make the Filling – In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. If using meat, fold in the cooked ground beef or Italian sausage.
4️⃣ Assemble Roll-Ups – Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Take a lasagna noodle, spread 2-3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture evenly over it, and roll it tightly from one end to the other. Place seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with remaining noodles.
5️⃣ Bake – Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the roll-ups and sprinkle with ½ cup of mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
6️⃣ Serve – Let the roll-ups cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil for added flavor.
Storage
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or microwave for a quick meal.
Freezing: Assemble roll-ups but do not bake. Store them in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
FAQ
❓ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the meat or replace it with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
❓ What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese or a mixture of cream cheese and Greek yogurt works as a substitute.
❓ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the roll-ups a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
❓ What’s the best way to reheat frozen roll-ups?
Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
Conclusion
Lasagna Roll-Ups are a fantastic way to enjoy all the flavors of traditional lasagna in an easy, portion-controlled format. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a family gathering, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Try them today and bring a taste of Italy to your table!
Would you like a variation of this recipe, such as a vegetarian or gluten-free version?
