Indulge in the Melty Goodness of Lasagna Roll Ups
Ever had a dish so comforting it feels like a warm hug? Easy Lasagna Roll Ups not only promise a cheery gathering around the table, but they also deliver layers of cheesy goodness wrapped up in a cute little package. With their rich flavor and inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen, these roll-ups make for an irresistible and family-friendly dinner option that you’ll want to make time and time again.
Why Make This Recipe
You might be wondering why you should add Lasagna Roll Ups to your weeknight dinner lineup. Here’s the scoop:
- Easy Cleanup: Unlike traditional lasagna that gets all messy, these roll-ups let you savor every bite while keeping your dishes to a minimum.
- Affordable Comfort: With ingredients you likely already have on hand, it’s a budget-friendly way to create something that feels fancy but doesn’t break the bank.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Kids and grown-ups alike love the cheesy center! Plus, rolling noodles is an activity that can turn dinner prep into family bonding time. Who can say no to that?
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce, divided
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Directions
Follow these steps to mouthwatering perfection:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil the lasagna noodles in a large pot of salted water per package directions until al dente. Drain and arrange the noodles flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
- Incorporate the ground beef, cooking until browned throughout. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in 1 cup of marinara sauce with the cooked beef mixture and allow it to cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, blend the ricotta cheese, egg, 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper until creamy and smooth.
- Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture onto each lasagna noodle. Spoon a portion of meat sauce evenly over the cheese, and carefully roll up each noodle with the seam on the bottom.
- Coat the base of a large baking dish with the remaining marinara sauce. Arrange the rolled noodles seam-side down in the dish.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmesan. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving hot.
How to Make Easy Lasagna Roll Ups (Overview)
Ready for the construction process? It’s as easy as 1-2-3. First, boil those noodles and sauté your aromatic duo of onion and garlic. Then, mix up your filling with ricotta and meat. Roll up each noodle like it’s a beautiful burrito, and nestle them in marinara sauce. Bake until cheese is golden and oozing; your house will smell like heaven! 🤤 Pro tip: Don’t skip toasting the garlic — it makes all the difference!
How to Serve Easy Lasagna Roll Ups
Serving these roll-ups is so simple yet oh-so-satisfying. Plated up, they boast a beautiful contrast of colors — the rich marinara sauce, the golden, bubbling cheese, and the vibrant green of freshly chopped parsley. Pair them with a crunchy salad or some crusty garlic bread for the ultimate dinner experience. The flavors meld together, and the aroma will have everyone running to the table!
How to Store Easy Lasagna Roll Ups
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (or want to make it ahead of time), don’t worry! They last up to 3-5 days in the fridge. Just ensure they’re stored in an airtight container. For long-term storage, these babies freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for that freshly-baked comfort dish vibe!
Tips to Make Easy Lasagna Roll Ups
Here are a few insider tricks to make your roll-ups even better:
- Timing is Everything: Cook the noodles just right! Al dente is perfect so they don’t become mushy while baking.
- Ingredient Swaps: Try ground turkey or even a meatless option for a lighter twist!
- Texture Tips: Adding some spinach or chopped zucchini into your ricotta mixture can sneak in some extra veggies without compromising taste.
- Marinara Madness: Experiment with different flavors of marinara sauce to spice things up.
Variation
Want to switch things up? Go vegan by using almond ricotta, plant-based ground meat, and vegan cheeses. You can also add roasted bell peppers or pesto in the filling for a flavor explosion. Who says lasagna can’t be fun and versatile? 🌱
FAQs
1. Can I make lasagna roll-ups ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the roll-ups, cover them tightly, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I freeze the roll-ups?
Yes, you can! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw them in the fridge before baking.
3. What can I substitute for ground beef?
Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even lentils for a delicious vegetarian twist.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Easy Lasagna Roll Ups
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil the lasagna noodles in a large pot of salted water per package directions until al dente. Drain and arrange the noodles flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
- Incorporate the ground beef, cooking until browned throughout. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in 1 cup of marinara sauce with the cooked beef mixture and allow it to cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, blend the ricotta cheese, egg, 1/4 cup of the grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper until creamy and smooth.
- Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture onto each lasagna noodle. Spoon a portion of meat sauce evenly over the cheese, and carefully roll up each noodle with the seam on the bottom.
- Coat the base of a large baking dish with the remaining marinara sauce. Arrange the rolled noodles seam-side down in the dish.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmesan. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving hot.