Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe take this classic dish and give it a fun twist. Instead of stacking layers, you roll everything into individual servings. It’s like a personalized lasagna experience that’s easier to serve and even more satisfying to eat. Ready to roll? Let’s dive in!
This Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe combines the classic charm of a Barilla Lasagna Recipe with the family-friendly appeal of a Cowboy Casserole Recipe and the comforting simplicity of an Easy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe. These roll-ups are a creative twist on traditional lasagna, featuring tender noodles rolled with creamy ricotta, savory meat sauce, and gooey cheese. Like the rich layers of a cowboy casserole or the flaky crust of a pot pie, this dish offers a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for weeknights or special gatherings.
Ingredients Needed For Meat Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe
Essential Ingredients for the Filling
To make the perfect lasagna roll ups, you need a rich and creamy filling. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 15 oz ricotta cheese: The base for the filling, providing creaminess and flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds that gooey, melty goodness.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For a savory, nutty depth.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the filling together.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs for extra flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors.
Sauce Ingredients for Flavor
The sauce is equally important for a delicious dish. You’ll need:
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Homemade or store-bought works.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the garlic.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a fragrant kick.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a hint of heat.
Optional Add-ons
Want to take your lasagna roll ups to the next level? Try these:
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or Italian sausage: For a meaty twist.
- 1 cup chopped spinach: To sneak in some greens.
- ½ cup diced mushrooms: Adds a hearty, earthy flavor.
Equipment Needed
Before we get started, make sure you have the right tools:
- Large pot: For boiling the lasagna noodles.
- Mixing bowl: To combine the filling ingredients.
- 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect size for assembling the roll ups.
- Spoon or spatula: For spreading the filling.
- Sharp knife: To finely chop any add-ons like parsley or spinach.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Filling
The filling is the star of the show, so let’s get it just right:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
- Add the egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- If you’re including spinach or cooked meat, fold them in gently.
- Mix everything until it’s well combined and creamy. Set aside.
Cooking the Lasagna Noodles
The noodles are the foundation of this recipe. Follow these steps:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the noodles and lay them flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Assembling the Roll Ups
Now comes the fun part: rolling up the lasagna!
- Take a cooked lasagna noodle and lay it flat on a clean surface.
- Spread 2-3 tablespoons of the prepared filling evenly over the noodle.
- Starting at one end, roll the noodle tightly but gently.
- Place the roll seam-side down in your greased baking dish.
Making the Sauce
A good sauce ties everything together. Here’s how to make it:
- Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and add red pepper flakes if desired.
- Simmer for 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Baking the Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe
It’s time to bring it all together:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pour half the marinara sauce into the bottom of the baking dish.
- Arrange the roll ups on top of the sauce.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the roll ups and sprinkle with extra mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
Serving Suggestions
Lasagna roll ups are a meal on their own, but pairing them with the right sides takes the experience to the next level. Consider serving them with:
- Caesar salad: The crisp, tangy flavors complement the cheesy rolls beautifully.
- Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
- Steamed vegetables: For a healthy, balanced meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
These roll ups are great for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat them:
Storage
- Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the roll ups in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Oven: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Basically, heat individual roll-ups on a microwave-safe plate for 2-3 minutes.
Tips for Perfect Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe
- Prevent noodles from breaking: Don’t overcook the noodles, so they’ll be easier to handle.
- Use parchment paper: Generally, lay noodles flat to avoid sticking together.
- Customize flavors: Add pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, or different cheeses to experiment with flavors. Also, it’s a great way to customize the dish, but make sure the flavors complement each other.
Variations Of Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe
Vegetarian Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe
These roll-ups are a perfect meatless option, featuring tender lasagna noodles filled with a mixture of creamy ricotta, sautéed spinach, and a medley of roasted vegetables. Also, baked in marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella, but generally, they’re a wholesome and satisfying dish.
Meat Lover’s Version
- Double the cooked ground beef or Italian sausage in the filling. Accordingly, so you get a heartier dish.
- Top with crumbled bacon before baking.
Gluten-Free Adaptations
- Basically, swap regular lasagna noodles for gluten-free lasagna sheets.
- Ensure the marinara sauce is gluten-free by checking labels, so you can avoid any gluten-related issues.
Lasagna Roll Ups with Spinach and Meat
Generally, a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, these roll-ups combine tender noodles with a rich filling of seasoned ground meat, sautéed spinach, and creamy ricotta cheese. Topped with marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella, this dish is perfect for a wholesome family dinner.
Lasagna Roll Ups with Meat
For a hearty, meaty option, these roll-ups are filled with seasoned ground beef or Italian sausage, layered with ricotta and Parmesan. Also, rolled in lasagna noodles and baked with marinara sauce, this recipe is a surefire hit for lovers of traditional Italian flavors.
Easy Lasagna Roll Ups with Meat
Quick and convenient, this recipe features tender lasagna noodles filled with a savory meat mixture and creamy cheeses. Also, it’s perfect for weeknight meals, but generally, these roll-ups are easy to assemble and bake, offering all the flavors of lasagna in a simplified, crowd-pleasing format.
Spinach Lasagna Roll Ups
These vegetarian-friendly roll-ups are packed with sautéed spinach, creamy ricotta, and Parmesan cheese, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying lasagna option. Rolled and baked in marinara sauce with a generous topping of mozzarella, this dish is a nutritious and delicious choice for any occasion.
Lasagna Roll Ups with Cream Cheese
Add a creamy twist to your lasagna roll-ups by incorporating cream cheese into the filling. Accordingly, so combined with ricotta, Parmesan, and your choice of meat or vegetables, the cream cheese adds richness and a velvety texture that takes this dish to the next level.
Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups
Basically, a lighter alternative to traditional beef lasagna, these roll-ups are filled with shredded chicken, creamy ricotta, and Parmesan cheese. Rolled in lasagna noodles, smothered in Alfredo or marinara sauce, and topped with mozzarella, they’re a flavorful twist on a family favorite.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (two roll ups) contains approximately:
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
What to Serve with Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe?
Lasagna roll ups pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes to create a balanced meal. So, here are some popular options:
- Garlic Bread: A crispy and buttery garlic bread is generally a classic pairing.
- Salads: A simple green salad with vinaigrette or a Caesar salad offers a refreshing contrast. Also, it’s light and crisp, but substantial enough to balance the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Options like zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, or brussels sprouts are healthy and flavorful. Also, they add vibrant colors to the plate, but generally, they pair well with many main dishes.
- Soup: Tomato basil or minestrone soup works perfectly as a starter or side. Accordingly, so it complements the main dish beautifully.
- Grilled Vegetables: Basically, eggplants or mushrooms provide a smoky flavor that complements lasagna roll-ups.
What is the Correct Order to Layer Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe?
Layering lasagna is key to its delicious flavor and texture. So, here’s the traditional sequence:
- Sauce First: Generally, spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Noodles: Place the lasagna noodles in a single layer. Also, make sure they don’t overlap, but cover the entire surface.
- Ricotta Mixture: Spread an even layer of ricotta or other creamy fillings. Accordingly, so you achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- Meat or Vegetables: Basically, add a layer of your chosen protein or veggie mix.
- Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella or Parmesan for a cheesy layer, so you get that delicious, melty goodness.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the sequence until the dish is full, ending with a final layer of sauce and cheese on top.
For roll-ups, the filling is generally spread onto each noodle, rolled individually, and placed seam-side down in the dish with sauce and cheese on top.
What is the Lasagna Noodle Trick?
The lasagna noodle trick involves boiling the noodles only halfway before assembling your dish. This ensures they remain sturdy for rolling without breaking and finish cooking perfectly in the oven as they absorb the sauce. For roll-ups, lay the partially cooked noodles on a flat surface after boiling, so they cool and stay intact while assembling.
What Can I Add to My Lasagna to Make It Taste Better?
Enhance your lasagna by incorporating fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley into your ricotta mixture. Add a touch of nutmeg for depth or use a mix of cheeses, such as mozzarella, Parmesan, and provolone, for a richer flavor. A splash of red wine in your meat sauce or finely diced vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or carrots adds complexity. For a spicy kick, include red pepper flakes.
Can You Boil Oven-Ready Lasagna Noodles for Roll-Ups?
Yes, you can boil oven-ready lasagna noodles for roll-ups, but only briefly. A quick 2-3 minute soak in boiling water softens them enough to roll without becoming overly fragile. This step ensures they are pliable yet sturdy for assembling your roll-ups.
What is a Good Side Dish with Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe?
A classic garlic bread is a staple side for lasagna. Other great options include a tangy Caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and balsamic glaze, or roasted vegetables seasoned with garlic and olive oil. A creamy polenta or risotto can also be a delicious pairing, adding variety to the meal.
Can I Use Cottage Cheese Instead of Ricotta?
Absolutely! Cottage cheese is a common substitute for ricotta in lasagna and roll-ups. For a smoother texture, blend the cottage cheese slightly before using. It’s a lighter option, perfect for those seeking a healthier twist without sacrificing flavor.
Should I Boil Lasagna Noodles Before Baking?
For traditional lasagna, it’s best to boil the noodles unless you’re using oven-ready ones. For lasagna roll-ups, boiling is essential to make the noodles flexible enough to roll. Just boil until they’re al dente to prevent tearing.
What is the Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe Rule?
The lasagna rule emphasizes layering for the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each layer should have a balance of noodles, sauce, and filling to create a cohesive dish. Also, for roll-ups, this translates to evenly spreading the filling across each noodle, but make sure to roll tightly for consistent flavor.
What Goes as a Side Dish with Lasagna?
Side dishes enhance the flavors of lasagna roll-ups and provide balance. Accordingly, so here are some excellent options:
- Breadsticks or Focaccia: Great for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Antipasto Platter: Basically, include olives, marinated artichokes, and cured meats for an Italian touch.
- Sauteed Spinach or Kale: Lightly sauteed greens are nutritious and flavorful, so they make a great side dish.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with a tangy dressing complements the richness of lasagna. Also, it adds a refreshing contrast, but it’s not overly heavy.
- Caprese Salad: Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a light, refreshing side. Also, these ingredients are fresh and vibrant, but generally, they complement the flavors well.
What is the Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe Paradox?
The lasagna paradox refers to how a dish like lasagna, made of simple, common ingredients, can taste incredibly complex and satisfying. It’s a testament to how layering and cooking the components together creates a harmonious blend that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
Conclusion
Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe are the perfect blend of creativity, convenience, and comfort. They’re easier to serve than traditional lasagna and just as delicious, if not more so! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a fun family meal, these roll ups are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!
FAQs: Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe
Absolutely! Assemble them without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake straight from frozen, adding an extra 15 minutes to the baking time.
Lay the cooked noodles flat on parchment paper immediately after draining. You can also drizzle them lightly with olive oil.
Yes, but you’ll need extra sauce to ensure they cook fully in the oven. Make sure the noodles are well-covered in sauce.
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are traditional, but you can experiment with fontina, asiago, or even goat cheese for unique flavors.
Use dairy-free cheeses and replace the egg with a flaxseed substitute. Accordingly, so swap the meat with plant-based protein or additional vegetables.
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Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe
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Ingredients
- 12 Barilla lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella
- 1 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Noodles: Boil lasagna noodles until al dente; drain and lay flat.
- Prepare Sauce: Cook ground beef with marinara sauce and seasoning.
- Mix Filling: Combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and seasonings.
- Assemble Roll-Ups: Spread filling on each noodle, roll up, and place seam-side down in a baking dish with sauce on the bottom.
- Add Sauce & Cheese: Top with remaining sauce and sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for 5 more minutes until bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Noodle Prep: Cook lasagna noodles al dente to make them easier to roll without breaking.
- Custom Fillings: Feel free to swap or add ingredients like mushrooms, zucchini, or fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Cheese Options: Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or add cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Sauce Variety: Use Alfredo sauce for a richer flavor or marinara for a classic taste.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the roll-ups in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Freezing Tip: These roll-ups freeze beautifully. Store them in an airtight container before baking for up to three months.
- Topping: For a golden crust, sprinkle a little Parmesan on top before baking.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Reheating: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through to avoid drying out.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container.