Lasagna Roll Ups

Lasagna roll ups are a fun and delicious twist on the classic lasagna. Instead of layering noodles, sauce, and cheese in a pan, you roll the filling inside each noodle, creating individual portions that are perfect for serving. This recipe combines a savory ground beef filling with creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, all wrapped in tender pasta and smothered in marinara sauce. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easier to assemble than traditional lasagna, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you love the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna but want something a bit different, these lasagna roll ups are the answer. They’re less fussy to serve since each roll is already portioned out, and they bake evenly with a luscious cheesy top. The combination of ground beef, garlic, onions, and Italian herbs creates a rich and satisfying filling, while the ricotta and mozzarella add that creamy, melty texture that everyone loves. Plus, this recipe uses simple pantry staples, making it accessible and quick to prepare.

Ingredients

• 12 uncooked lasagna noodles
• 1 teaspoon salt (for pasta water)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (90% lean)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

How To Make Lasagna Roll Ups

Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 uncooked lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper so they don’t stick together.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary. Pour in half of the marinara sauce, stir to combine, and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, chopped fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Roll Ups

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Take one cooked lasagna noodle and spread about 2-3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodle. Next, add about 2 tablespoons of the cooked ground beef mixture on top of the ricotta. Sprinkle a little shredded mozzarella over the filling. Carefully roll up the noodle from one end to the other. Place the roll seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining noodles and filling.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Once all the roll ups are in the baking dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the lasagna roll ups rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Make sure to cook the noodles just until al dente to avoid them becoming mushy when baked.
• Use fresh parsley for a bright, herbaceous flavor, but dried parsley works in a pinch.
• Don’t skip rinsing the noodles after boiling; this prevents sticking and makes them easier to roll.
• If you want a smoother ricotta filling, blend it briefly with a hand mixer or food processor.
• Letting the assembled roll ups rest before serving helps the cheese set, making them easier to cut.
• Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a subtle kick.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Chicken Roll Ups: Swap ground beef for cooked shredded chicken mixed with Italian seasoning and marinara.
• Cheese Lovers: Add dollops of shredded provolone or fontina cheese inside the roll ups for extra richness.
• Spicy: Mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the meat sauce for heat.
• Herbs: Experiment with fresh basil or oregano instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure marinara and other ingredients are gluten-free.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover lasagna roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through. For longer storage, freeze the roll ups before baking or after baking once cooled. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual.

FAQ

Can I prepare lasagna roll ups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the roll ups a day ahead, cover them tightly, and store them in the refrigerator. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta, you can use cottage cheese (preferably small curd) blended for a smoother texture, or cream cheese mixed with a little milk or yogurt to achieve a similar consistency.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply skip the ground beef and replace it with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You can also add cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.

How do I prevent the roll ups from falling apart?

Make sure not to overfill the noodles and roll them tightly but gently. Placing them seam-side down in the baking dish helps keep them intact during baking.

Conclusion

Lasagna roll ups are a delightful variation on a classic comfort food that is both fun to serve and satisfyingly delicious. With layers of flavorful ground beef, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella wrapped in tender noodles, this dish brings all the best parts of lasagna into perfectly portioned rolls. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner idea or a make-ahead meal to impress your family and friends, these roll ups are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness that only lasagna can deliver!