Lasagna Roll Ups are a fun twist on a classic dish! They are made by rolling up pasta with layers of cheese, sauce, and sometimes veggies or meat, all baked together until bubbly.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a gooey, cheesy meal? These roll-ups are perfect to impress family or friends. I like to serve mine with a fresh salad on the side for a colorful touch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Classic flat lasagna noodles work best. If you’re gluten-free, you can use gluten-free pasta sheets or even zucchini strips for a lighter option.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta is key for creaminess. If you prefer, cottage cheese can be a lighter substitute, but remember to blend it for a smoother texture.
Marinara Sauce: A good quality store-bought marinara is convenient, but homemade can be richer. You can also use Alfredo sauce for a creamier take on the dish.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds nutrition and flavor. If you don’t have fresh, frozen spinach can work too—just drain it well beforehand. You can skip it altogether for a classic lasagna flavor.
How Do You Roll Up Lasagna Noodles Without Breaking Them?
Rolling lasagna noodles can be tricky! Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to cook the noodles al dente. They should still have a bit of firmness so they don’t tear when you roll them.
- After draining, lay them flat on a clean towel. This helps them cool down and prevents sticking.
- Use about ¼ cup of the cheese filling for each noodle. Spread it evenly but not too thick, which makes rolling easier.
- Start rolling from one end and keep the filling inside. A gentle but firm grip helps avoid cracks.
Take your time! If one does break, don’t worry too much; just place it seam side down in the dish and cover with sauce.
Lasagna Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roll Ups:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 35-40 minutes of baking time. So, in total, you’re looking at about an hour of deliciousness from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Noodles:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, grab a pot and boil some salted water. Cook your lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente—this means they’ll still be a bit firm. Drain them, and then lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel so they don’t stick together.
2. Mix the Cheese Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, and the chopped spinach if you’re using it. Now, add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and some salt and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s nice and combined. This cheesy mixture is going to be the star of your roll-ups!
3. Assemble the Roll Ups:
Now it’s time to create the roll-ups! Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Then, take one lasagna noodle and spread about ¼ cup of the cheese mixture evenly on top. Roll it up gently and place it seam side down in the baking dish. Repeat this for all the noodles—look at you, a lasagna rolling pro!
4. Bake Your Creation:
After you’ve rolled all the noodles, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, making sure they’re nicely covered. Now sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. Cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in. Bake it in your preheated oven for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely touch of color. Serve the lasagna roll ups warm and enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite of this comforting meal!
Bon appétit! 🍽️
Can I Use No-Cook Lasagna Noodles?
Yes, no-cook lasagna noodles can be used! Just layer them directly into the dish with sauce and cheese filling, adding a bit more marinara sauce to account for the absence of boiling.
Can I Freeze Leftover Lasagna Roll Ups?
Absolutely! You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
How to Make Lasagna Roll Ups Vegetarian?
Simply omit any meat and load up on veggies! You can add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the cheese mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
What Can I Serve with Lasagna Roll Ups?
For a complete meal, pair these roll ups with a simple green salad or garlic bread. A side of steamed broccoli also complements the dish nicely!
