Side Dishes

Lasagna Roll-Ups

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If you love the comforting layers of traditional lasagna but want something a little easier to serve—or just more fun to eat—Lasagna Roll-Ups are the perfect solution! These delicious bundles are filled with creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, spinach, and optional meat sauce, all rolled into tender pasta noodles and baked to perfection.

Whether you’re serving a family dinner, prepping a make-ahead meal, or entertaining guests, these roll-ups are as versatile as they are satisfying.


Why You’ll Love These Lasagna Roll-Ups

  • Perfectly portioned – Easy to serve and great for meal prep.
  • Customizable – Go vegetarian or add meat sauce for extra heartiness.
  • Freezer-friendly – Make ahead and reheat for busy weeknights.
  • Kid-approved – Fun shape, familiar flavors, and no messy slicing!

Ingredients

For the Roll-Ups:

  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup chopped fresh spinach (or ½ cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry)
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Optional Meat Sauce:

  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Lasagna Roll-Ups

1. Cook the Lasagna Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta, 1½ cups mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, spinach, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.

3. Make the Meat Sauce (Optional)

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, water, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.

4. Assemble the Roll-Ups

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara (or meat) sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Spoon a heaping tablespoon of the ricotta mixture onto each lasagna noodle and spread it evenly. Roll the noodles up gently and place them seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat until all the noodles are used.

5. Add Sauce and Cheese

Top the roll-ups with the remaining marinara or meat sauce. Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.

6. Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

7. Cool and Serve

Let the roll-ups rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a fresh finish.


Tips & Variations

  • Make it vegetarian: Skip the meat sauce and use all marinara.
  • Add veggies: Finely diced mushrooms or zucchini go great in the filling or sauce.
  • Use cottage cheese: Swap ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter option.
  • Freeze for later: Assemble roll-ups and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight and bake when ready.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your lasagna roll-ups with:

  • A crisp green salad
  • Garlic bread or low-carb breadsticks
  • Roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini
  • A glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot

Nutrition & Serving Info

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Servings: 6
  • Calories: ~430 per serving (varies with meat sauce)

A Family-Friendly Favorite

Lasagna Roll-Ups bring all the cheesy, saucy comfort of classic lasagna in a neater, cuter package. They’re easy to customize, perfect for freezing, and sure to become a weeknight staple in your home.

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