If you’re craving a comforting, delicious Italian-American classic with a fun twist, then you absolutely need to try The Best Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe. These beauties take all the cozy flavors of traditional lasagna and wrap them into individual rolls that are both impressive and easy to serve. Packed with a savory blend of ricotta, mozzarella, seasoned meat, and a rich marinara sauce, this dish hits all the right notes for a family dinner or a casual gathering. Plus, the presentation is so charming, it’s guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds and the recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, quality ingredients are the heart of The Best Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe. Each component brings a unique touch — from the creamy cheeses adding luscious texture, to the seasoned meat creating that signature savory satisfaction, and the vibrant marinara keeping things fresh and bright.
- 12 lasagna noodles: Cooked al dente to hold the filling without getting mushy when rolled.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For browning the meat perfectly and adding depth of flavor.
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage: The savory protein base that makes the dish hearty.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): A punch of aromatic flavor that elevates the sauce and meat.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A classic herb blend that ties all flavors together beautifully.
- 2 cups ricotta cheese: Creamy, mild, and fluffy — essential for that luscious cheese filling.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to help the cheese filling hold together.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping): Melts into gooey goodness that everyone adores.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, savory kick for depth.
- 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought): The vibrant tomato sauce that brings moisture and tang.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings for boosting every element.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, colorful pop right before serving.
How to Make The Best Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Noodles
Start by cooking your lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until perfectly al dente (not too soft, but pliable enough for rolling). Once drained, lay them flat on parchment paper so they can cool without sticking, which makes rolling a breeze later.
Step 2: Cook the Meat Mixture
In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and add the ground beef or Italian sausage. Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Cook until the meat is browned and completely cooked through, then drain any excess fat. This savory meat mixture is what gives The Best Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe that signature rich flavor.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Filling
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, one cup of shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy. This luscious filling provides the perfect balance of creamy texture and cheesy goodness that melts beautifully in each roll.
Step 4: Roll ‘Em Up
Spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture evenly onto each noodle, then add a spoonful of your cooked meat mixture on top. Carefully roll each noodle tightly, sealing all that goodness inside. Place each roll seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish that already has one cup of marinara sauce spread across the bottom to prevent sticking and add moisture.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the assembled roll ups, then sprinkle extra shredded mozzarella on top for that irresistible golden, bubbly finish. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and just starting to brown. The aroma alone will have you drooling!
How to Serve The Best Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a touch of vibrant color and a bright, herbal note that balances the richness of the cheese and meat. Don’t skip this step — it really elevates the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair these roll ups with a simple green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette or some garlicky sautéed green beans. Light sides with acidity and crunch provide a lovely contrast to the creamy, cheesy rolls, rounding out your meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve each roll up on a beautiful plate with a drizzle of extra marinara sauce around it. Alternatively, a rustic family-style presentation right from the baking dish is cozy and inviting — perfect for casual dinners where everyone can help themselves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover lasagna roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor well and just get even better after a day as the flavors meld.
Freezing
You can freeze The Best Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe before baking — simply prepare the roll ups, place them in your dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This makes them a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeknights.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave, covered loosely with a damp paper towel, or warm a whole baking dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly again. Both methods keep the roll ups creamy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I make The Best Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply skip the meat or swap it out for sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. The cheese filling and marinara sauce bring enough flavor to keep it hearty and satisfying.
What type of cheese works best?
A combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates the perfect texture and flavor. Ricotta gives creaminess, mozzarella provides melty stretch, and Parmesan adds a savory, salty punch.
Can I use no-boil noodles for this recipe?
It’s best to use traditional boiled noodles so you can roll them easily without tearing. No-boil noodles could become too soft and difficult to handle for rolling.
How long does it take to prepare and cook?
The total time is about 1 hour and 5 minutes, including 30 minutes for prep and 35 minutes baking time — perfect for a weekend dinner or a special occasion.
Can I prepare The Best Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the roll ups, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours before baking, or freeze them unbaked for up to a month. Just be sure to thaw before baking if frozen.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly wonderful about the way The Best Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe transforms a classic comfort food into a fun, shareable dish that’s as visually delightful as it is delicious. Whether feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of Italian magic to your table. Trust me, once you try these roll ups, they’ll become a favorite recipe to return to again and again!
Print
The Best Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This delicious recipe for The Best Lasagna Roll Ups combines tender rolled lasagna noodles filled with a creamy ricotta and cheese mixture, savory ground beef seasoned with Italian herbs, and marinara sauce, all baked to bubbly perfection. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or family meal, these roll ups offer a comforting twist on classic lasagna with less fuss and great presentation.
Ingredients
For the Noodles and Filling
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Sauce and Topping
- 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Additional shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is ready for baking the lasagna roll ups.
- Cook Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until they are al dente. Drain well and lay them flat on a parchment-lined surface to cool, preventing sticking.
- Prepare Meat Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil then add ground beef, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and set the cooked meat aside.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy, forming your cheese filling.
- Assemble Roll Ups: Spread a thin layer of cheese mixture evenly onto each cooled lasagna noodle. Add a spoonful of the cooked meat mixture on top of the cheese layer. Roll each noodle tightly from one end to the other.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Place each roll up seam-side down into the dish over the sauce.
- Add Sauce and Cheese Topping: Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the roll ups. Sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella on top for a cheesy crust.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the filling to heat through.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting lasagna roll ups.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat or substitute with sautéed spinach or mushrooms.
- These roll ups freeze well before baking; simply thaw before reheating for a convenient meal.
