Lasagna Roll Ups are a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish, combining the delicious flavors of lasagna with an easy-to-handle format. Instead of layering, you’ll be rolling up lasagna noodles filled with creamy ricotta and savory meat sauce, making them not only beautifully presentable but also a joy to eat. The layers of flavors meld together as they bake, making each bite melt in your mouth. If you’ve ever craved lasagna without the fuss of stacking, it’s time to roll with this recipe that has become a family favorite in our household.
I remember the first time I made Lasagna Roll Ups for a family gathering. It was a chilly evening, and I was looking for a comforting dish that would satisfy everyone’s cravings. As the roll-ups bubbled in the oven, my kitchen filled with an irresistible aroma that drew my family in. The moment they hit the table, everyone was delighted — and the dish vanished before I could even save leftovers! Now, I can’t recommend this recipe highly enough. It’s easy, budget-friendly, and impressive enough to serve at any occasion. I invite you to try it for yourself and watch it become a favorite in your home too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With just 20 minutes of prep time and a little over 55 minutes total, you can have this delightful meal ready to enjoy without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of ground beef, marinara, and creamy ricotta creates a symphony of taste that’s both hearty and comforting.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Lasagna Roll Ups not only taste amazing but look stunning on a plate, making them perfect for impressing guests!
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for the week ahead — they’re delicious hot or at room temperature.
- Diet-Friendly Options: You can easily substitute ground turkey for a lighter option and even explore gluten-free noodles if needed.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 16 ounces lasagna noodles: Cooked until al dente, these serve as the base of your roll ups, providing a sturdy and delicious wrapper.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: This enhances the flavor of the noodles and beef.
- 1 pound ground beef: A rich source of protein; you can also use ground turkey or plant-based meat if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds a sweet flavor and depth in the meat sauce.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic brings a fragrant aroma and layers of flavor that make every bite irresistible.
- 32 ounces marinara sauce: Choose a quality brand or use homemade sauce to ensure a rich, flavorful base.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: This herb adds a classic Italian flavor that perfectly complements the beef and cheese.
- 1 tablespoon dried basil: Along with oregano, it enhances the dish’s aromatics and taste.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt (or 3/4 teaspoon table salt): Use this to season the filling and balance flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A touch of heat that elevates the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds an optional kick; feel free to adjust based on your heat preference!
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese: This creamy cheese filling creates a perfect contrast to the meaty sauce.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Helps to bind the ricotta mixture, making it easier to spread and roll.
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided): Melted mozzarella on top creates a gooey, cheesy finish that everyone will love.
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, shredded: For that extra punch of flavor and depth.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: A sprinkle of freshness to brighten the dish.
How to Make Lasagna Roll Ups
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Don’t forget to spray a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to keep your delicious roll-ups from sticking.
- Cook the Noodles: In a large pot, bring water to a roaring boil, add 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and toss in the lasagna noodles. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside. Remember, you’ll only need 12 noodles, but cooking the whole box gives you some backup if any break.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once it’s browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion softens, about 3 minutes. Drain any excess grease and add the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, filling your kitchen with an amazing aroma.
- Mix the Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, 1 1/2 cups of mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. This mixture will lend a creamy, rich texture to each roll-up.
- Assemble the Roll Ups: Pour 1/2 cup of sauce into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Lay the cooked noodles on a large rimmed baking sheet. Spread about 1/4 cup of the ricotta mixture on each noodle then top with about 1 tablespoon of the meat sauce. Roll up each noodle and place them seam-side down in the baking dish. You should be able to create about 16 roll-ups. Pour the remaining meat sauce over the top and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and set the oven to broil for a few minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!
Storing & Reheating
Lasagna Roll Ups can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours after cooking. For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap individual roll-ups tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, about 20 minutes. The flavors of the sauce will deepen, although the texture may be slightly softer than fresh.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking your lasagna noodles. They should be firm enough to roll without tearing.
- Make sure all ingredients are room temperature before mixing, especially the ricotta cheese, which will blend more easily.
- If you have leftover filling, use it as a dip or spread on toasted bread.
- For more flavor, sauté the onions until they’re golden brown before adding the garlic and meat.
- You can prepare these roll-ups in advance; simply cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Wrap everything up with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor!
Lasagna Roll Ups are a hearty meal that’s sure to please both family and friends. Their unique presentation not only showcases your culinary skills but also invites everyone to dig in. Feel free to make it your own — whether it’s adding spinach to the cheese mixture or using different types of sauces or meats. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes cooking fun! So gather your loved ones around the table, serve up these roll-ups, and enjoy a delightful, comforting meal together.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use gluten-free noodles for Lasagna Roll Ups?
Absolutely! Gluten-free lasagna noodles are widely available and work well in this recipe; just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package.
Can I make Lasagna Roll Ups ahead of time?
Certainly! You can assemble them a day in advance, just store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This is a great option for meal prepping or hosting!
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can easily swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Each will bring a unique flavor to the dish.
How do I adjust the recipe for a smaller serving?
Simply halve the ingredient quantities and follow the same steps. You can still enjoy delicious Lasagna Roll Ups even in smaller batches!
Print
Lasagna Roll Ups
These lasagna roll ups combine savory ground beef, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella in a delightful dish that brings comfort to the dinner table. Ideal for a quick meal, they are a tasty twist on classic lasagna, making them a crowd-pleaser for family and friends.
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 16 ounces lasagna noodles cooked according to package instructions
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 32 ounces marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt or 3/4 teaspoon table salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg beaten
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese shredded, divided
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese shredded
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Boil a large pot of water, adding 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside, reserving some for breaks.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft, then drain excess grease.
- Stir in the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let simmer for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley until well mixed.
- Spread 1/2 cup of the meat sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
- On a baking sheet, lay out the cooked noodles. Spread about 1/4 cup of cheese mixture on each noodle, followed by 1 tablespoon of meat sauce. Roll them up and place them in the baking dish. You should get about 16 roll ups. Top with remaining sauce and 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Uncover and broil briefly to brown the cheese on top.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Cook extra lasagna noodles in case some break while rolling.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with sautéed vegetables.
Feel free to customize the filling with other cheeses or herbs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll up
- Calories: 395
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
