Lasagna Roll Ups are a fun twist on classic lasagna! They are made by filling pasta sheets with creamy ricotta and spinach, then rolling them up and smothering in tasty marinara sauce.
These pretty rolls are super easy to make and great for sharing. I love how they look on a plate—just like a little pasta gift! Perfect for impressing friends or a cozy family dinner. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional flat noodles work best here. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat or even gluten-free lasagna noodles can be great substitutes.
Ground Meat: I like using ground beef for its flavor, but you can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Vegetarian options like mushrooms or lentils can also be a great choice!
Cheeses: Ricotta is creamy and rich, but if you’re lactose intolerant, try using a dairy-free ricotta made from nuts. Mozzarella is my favorite for melting, but provolone or even a vegan cheese can work too.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is quick and easy, but homemade adds a special touch. If you’re short on time, just add some Italian seasoning to canned tomatoes as a fast alternative.
How Do You Prevent Noodles from Sticking Together?
Cooking lasagna noodles can be tricky because they tend to stick. Here’s what I do to keep them separate:
- Boil the noodles with plenty of water; add a pinch of salt.
- After cooking, drain and immediately run them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Spread them out on a lightly oiled baking sheet or parchment paper, preventing them from clumping together.
Following these tips will make assembly much easier. Enjoy making your Lasagna Roll Ups without the hassle!
Lasagna Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 2 cups marinara sauce, divided
- 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes for preparation and about 35-40 minutes for baking. So, in total, you should expect to spend around 55-60 minutes to create these delicious Lasagna Roll Ups! Perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Noodles:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Make sure to drain them and lay them flat on a lightly oiled sheet or parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
2. Cooking the Meat:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add in the ground beef or Italian sausage along with the minced garlic. Cook everything until the meat is browned and cooked through, using a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat for a lighter dish!
3. Making the Sauce Mixture:
Now, stir 1 cup of the marinara sauce into the cooked meat mixture and let it simmer on low for a few minutes. Once that’s done, remove from heat and set it aside.
4. Preparing the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, dried basil, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
5. Assembling the Roll Ups:
Spread a thin layer of the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Now, lay one cooked lasagna noodle flat and spread about 1/3 cup of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodle. Add a spoonful of the meat sauce on top of the cheese mixture, and then carefully roll up the noodle from one end to the other.
6. Baking the Roll Ups:
Place the roll-ups seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining noodles and filling. Spoon any remaining meat sauce evenly over the top of the roll-ups, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Final Steps:
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the oven to bake for 25 minutes. After that time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Finally, take them out of the oven and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Lasagna Roll Ups! They’re sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Noodles?
Absolutely! Whole wheat noodles are a great healthier option, and gluten-free noodles will work just as well if you need to avoid gluten. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they may vary.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitution, consider using cottage cheese for a similar texture, or a dairy-free alternative made from nuts if you’re lactose intolerant. Just blend it well to achieve a creamy consistency.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Freeze Lasagna Roll Ups?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled roll-ups before baking. Just wrap them tightly with foil or plastic wrap and they’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
