Description
Cheesy Lasagna Roll-Ups
Ingredients
12 lasagna noodles, cooked
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Ricotta Filling:
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
Cook lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay flat on a clean surface.
Assemble the Roll-Ups:
Spread 2-3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture onto each noodle. Roll the noodle tightly from one end to the other. Repeat for all noodles.
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a greased baking dish. Place the lasagna roll-ups seam-side down in the dish.
Top with Sauce and Cheese:
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the roll-ups. Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake:
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy hot with a side of garlic bread or salad!
Tips:
Add cooked ground beef, sausage, or spinach to the ricotta mixture for added flavor and texture.
Make ahead and refrigerate; bake when ready to serve for an easy meal prep option!
These cheesy lasagna roll-ups are a fun twist on traditional lasagna, perfect for family dinners or special occasions!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect roll-ups every time. First, ensure your cooked noodles are laid flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking. For the filling, thoroughly combine the ricotta, egg, and seasonings before folding in the cheeses to maintain a light texture. When assembling, use a spoon or offset spatula to spread an even layer of filling, leaving a half-inch at one end to prevent squeeze-out. Roll firmly but gently from the short end. Arrange the roll-ups snugly in the sauced dish to help them hold their shape during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These roll-ups are a complete meal on their own but pair wonderfully with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted garlic green beans. For a classic Italian restaurant experience, serve with warm, buttery garlic knots or a slice of crusty focaccia. A light, acidic side like a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette helps cut through the richness. They also make an excellent packed lunch and reheat beautifully.
How-to Summary
In summary: cook noodles al dente, mix cheeses and seasonings for the filling, spread filling on each noodle and roll tightly. Place seam-side down in a sauced baking dish, top with more sauce and cheese, then bake covered at 375°F for 20 minutes, followed by 10 minutes uncovered until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time? Absolutely. Assemble the roll-ups in the dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the covered baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I freeze lasagna roll-ups? Yes. Assemble and freeze the unbaked dish. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
How do I prevent the noodles from tearing? Cook noodles to just al dente and handle them carefully. Laying them flat on a damp towel after draining can also help.
What can I use instead of ricotta? Cottage cheese (small-curd, drained) or a blend of mascarpone and goat cheese are excellent substitutes.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Use your favorite gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure all other ingredients, like marinara, are certified gluten-free.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the noodles, as they will become too soft and tear when rolling. Do not skip the egg in the filling, as it acts as a crucial binder. Ensure you spread sauce on the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking and burning. Finally, do not overfill the noodles, as this causes the filling to leak out during baking and makes rolling difficult.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Lasagna Roll-Ups are a delightful and elegant alternative to layered lasagna, offering perfect portion control and a stunning presentation. They are versatile for weeknight dinners or entertaining, and the make-ahead flexibility is a major bonus. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll master a crowd-pleasing dish that brings the comfort of Italian cuisine to your table with a creative twist.