There’s a warmth that fills the kitchen when I start to prepare my Quick & Easy Lasagna Roll-Ups. The delightful scent of garlic mingling with simmering marinara sauce immediately transports me to joyful family dinners. This recipe is my go-to solution for hectic weeknights when the last thing I want to face is another takeout menu.
With just a few simple ingredients, these rolled treats provide all the hearty goodness of traditional lasagna without the hassle. What I love most is their versatility; whether you crave ground beef, chicken, or a vegetarian delight packed with fresh veggies, these roll-ups can be customized to suit everyone at the table. Imagine tender pasta sheets lovingly wrapped around a creamy three-cheese filling, melting into a savory meat sauce—it’s sheer comfort food magic that’s perfect for gatherings, or just a cozy night in. Join me in discovering how to create this delightful dish that will surely become a family favorite!
Why Love These Lasagna Roll Ups?
Quick and Easy: These Lasagna Roll Ups are a lifesaver for busy weeknights, allowing you to whip up a satisfying meal in no time!
Customizable Options: Choose your protein or make it vegetarian—these roll-ups adapt to everyone’s preferences while still delivering hearty flavor.
Comforting Feels: Each bite is a warm embrace with layers of gooey cheese and savory sauce, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner.
Kid-Friendly: The fun rolled shape makes them appealing to kids, making mealtime enjoyable for the whole family!
Minimal Cleanup: Assembly is simple, and with fewer dishes involved, you can spend more time enjoying your meal instead of doing the dishes.
Lasagna Roll Ups Ingredients
• Get ready to create a delicious family favorite!
For the Roll-Ups
- Lasagna Noodles – Necessary for structure; use 12 sheets or choose no-boil noodles to speed up the process.
- Ground Beef – Provides robust flavor; substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or veggies for a lighter meal.
- Marinara Sauce – Adds flavor and keeps things moist; 23 ounces is ideal, but homemade is a delightful alternative.
- Onion – Works as an aromatic base; finely mince for even cooking and enhanced flavor.
- Garlic – Elevates the taste; fresh minced garlic is best, or use garlic powder in a pinch.
For the Cheese Filling
- Ricotta Cheese – Essential for creaminess; can swap with cottage cheese for a lower-fat option.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Creates that melty, stringy goodness; fresh mozzarella adds extra creaminess, but shredded is convenient.
- Parmesan Cheese – Introduces depth of flavor; freshly grated is superior, but you can skip it for a dairy-free version.
- Egg – Binds the cheese mixture; for a vegan option, you can use a flax egg instead.
- Basil – Brings a fresh note; use fresh, but dried basil works in a pinch.
Seasoning
- Salt and Pepper – Use to taste, balancing the dish’s flavors to perfection.
These Lasagna Roll Ups are sure to bring happiness to your table—so gather your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Lasagna Roll Ups
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Cook Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add 12 lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set them aside on a clean kitchen towel.
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Prepare Meat Sauce: In a pot, brown 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat. Add 1 minced onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic, cooking until soft. Stir in 23 ounces of marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
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Make Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, ½ cup of grated parmesan, 1 beaten egg, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil. Mix until smooth and well combined.
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Assemble Roll-Ups: On a flat surface, place a cooked lasagna noodle and spread ¼ cup of the cheese filling evenly over it. Spoon some meat sauce on top, then carefully roll the noodle tightly. Place each roll seam-side down in a baking pan with a bit of sauce at the bottom.
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Final Bake: Once all the roll-ups are in the pan, pour the remaining meat sauce over them and sprinkle with additional mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
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Serve: Allow the roll-ups to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Top with minced parsley for garnish and enjoy your comforting meal!
Optional: Pair with garlic bread for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Lasagna Roll Ups
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the roll-ups in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F covered with foil until heated through, about 25-30 minutes. Enjoy these Lasagna Roll Ups just like fresh!
Lasagna Roll Ups Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these Lasagna Roll Ups your own with these fun ideas!
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Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a hearty, meatless delight. This still packs all the flavor while being friendly to plant-based diets.
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Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meat sauce for a kick of heat. The extra spice elevates the dish, making it perfect for those who like a little adventure in their meals!
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Herb-Infused: Swap the basil for fresh thyme or oregano to create a different flavor profile. Each herb brings a unique essence that can transform your roll-ups in delightful ways.
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Cheesy Spin: Mix in a handful of shredded cheddar or Gouda with the mozzarella for an extra-cheesy experience. The creaminess adds depth, giving a new texture that cheese lovers will adore!
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Creamy Alfredo: Instead of marinara, use a homemade or store-bought Alfredo sauce for a rich, creamy variation. The luxurious sauce coats the roll-ups beautifully, creating a comforting dish unlike any other.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts into the cheese filling for added crunch and a nutty flavor. It’s a subtle twist that transforms the texture while providing a delightful surprise in every bite.
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Greens Galore: Add chopped spinach, kale, or grated zucchini into the cheese filling to sneak in some wholesome veggies. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds a pop of color that’s vibrant and inviting!
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BBQ Chicken: Swap ground beef for shredded BBQ chicken, using a tangy barbecue sauce instead of marinara. This crafty variation brings a whole new exciting palette of flavors to your family dinner!
With these variations, your Lasagna Roll Ups will continuously surprise and delight your family!
Make Ahead Options
These Lasagna Roll-Ups are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the filling and meat sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For the noodles, you can cook and cool them ahead of time, layering them between sheets of parchment to prevent sticking, ensuring they stay fresh. When you’re ready to assemble and bake, spread the cheese filling over the cooled noodles, roll them up, and place them in your baking pan. Pour the sauce on top and bake as directed. This way, you save time during busy weeknights while enjoying delicious, home-cooked flavors just as satisfying as freshly made!
Expert Tips for Lasagna Roll Ups
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Don’t Overcook Noodles: Ensure lasagna noodles remain slightly firm, which makes them easier to roll and prevents them from tearing.
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Watch the Broiler: Keep an eye on the roll-ups when broiling. This ensures the cheese turns golden without burning—nobody likes burnt cheese!
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Let It Rest: After baking, allow your lasagna roll ups to sit for 5 minutes. This helps them hold their shape for easier serving.
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Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to customize with different proteins or veggies—this keeps the dish fresh and exciting for your family!
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and herbs. It elevates the overall flavor of your lasagna roll ups, making them truly memorable.
What to Serve with Lasagna Roll Ups?
Create a comforting dining experience that keeps everyone coming back for seconds!
- Garlic Bread: Crisp and buttery, it’s the perfect sidekick for soaking up delicious marinara flavors.
- Caesar Salad: Fresh and crunchy, this salad adds a refreshing crispness to balance the richness of the roll-ups.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful and hearty, a medley of roasted seasonal veggies complements the dish beautifully with their natural sweetness.
- Italian Antipasto Platter: Offer a variety of cured meats, cheeses, and olives to kick off the meal with delightful bites and flavors.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio works wonderfully, cutting through the creamy cheese and enhancing the savory meat sauce.
- Tiramisu: End the meal with a light and creamy dessert, providing a sweet finish to your comforting Italian feast.
Pairing these elements with your Lasagna Roll-Ups ensures a meal that brings warmth and joy to the table!
Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best lasagna noodles?
Absolutely! When choosing lasagna noodles, look for brands that promise a good texture, avoiding any with cracks or breaks in the packaging. Fresh or no-boil noodles can be a great time-saver and are often easier to work with. Ensure they are not overcooked to maintain their shape during rolling.
What’s the best way to store leftover lasagna roll ups?
Very good question! For leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to let them cool completely before sealing to retain flavor. If you wish to keep them longer, freeze the roll ups in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 2 months!
Can I freeze lasagna roll ups? If so, how?
Indeed, you can! To freeze, make sure they are completely cooled, then place them on a baking sheet first to prevent sticking. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper if needed. They’ll last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
What if my cheese filling is too watery?
Absolutely, this can happen, especially if you use low-fat cheeses. To troubleshoot, you can drain excess moisture from your ricotta before mixing it. Strain it through a cheesecloth or fine sieve for about 30 minutes. If the filling remains too loose, consider adding a tablespoon of bread crumbs or even an extra grated cheese as a binder.
Can I make lasagna roll ups vegetarian?
Of course! These roll ups are incredibly versatile. Simply swap out the ground beef for your choice of vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. You can also add some grated carrots for sweetness and nutrition; just sauté them first before adding to the cheese mixture. Your vegetarian version will be just as delicious and fulfilling!
Are there any allergies to consider with this recipe?
Great question! This lasagna roll up recipe includes dairy and gluten, so keep those in mind for allergies. For a gluten-free option, you can find gluten-free pasta alternatives. If dairy is an issue, try using vegan cheese or a blend of tofu and nutritional yeast as a substitute for the cheese filling. Remember to always check labels to avoid cross-contamination with allergens!
Irresistible Lasagna Roll Ups for Busy Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add 12 lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside on a clean kitchen towel.
- In a pot, brown 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat. Add 1 minced onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic, cooking until soft. Stir in 23 ounces of marinara sauce and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, ½ cup of grated parmesan, 1 beaten egg, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- On a flat surface, place a cooked lasagna noodle and spread ¼ cup of the cheese filling evenly over it. Spoon some meat sauce on top, then carefully roll the noodle tightly. Place each roll seam-side down in a baking pan with a bit of sauce at the bottom.
- Once all the roll-ups are in the pan, pour the remaining meat sauce over them and sprinkle with additional mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Allow the roll-ups to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Top with minced parsley for garnish and enjoy your comforting meal!