If you have been searching for an unforgettable yet simple dinner idea, look no further because The Only Lasagna Roll Up Recipe You Need Recipe is here to become your new favorite. This dish takes the comforting flavors of classic lasagna and transforms them into perfectly portioned, cheesy roll-ups that are not only delicious but fun to make and impressive to serve. Each bite bursts with creamy ricotta, gooey mozzarella, and a rich marinara sauce, balanced by just the right hint of Parmesan and fresh basil. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your weekly dinner lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting The Only Lasagna Roll Up Recipe You Need Recipe is easy with a handful of simple, quality ingredients that build layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays an essential role, from the tender noodles providing structure, to the cheeses creating that irresistible creamy filling, to the vibrant marinara sauce that ties everything together.
- Lasagna noodles: Use nine noodles cooked al dente for the ideal texture that will hold the filling without getting mushy.
- Ricotta cheese: At 1 ½ cups, this creamy cheese forms the luscious base of the filling, bringing milky richness.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, divided): Half melts into the filling for gooey indulgence, while the rest tops the rolls for a bubbly, golden crust.
- Marinara sauce (2 cups, divided): Choose your favorite marinara—its bright tomato flavor adds brightness and moisture to the dish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): This sharp cheese adds depth and slightly nutty notes to the filling mix.
- Fresh basil (optional): A garnish that brings a fresh, herbal aroma and a beautiful pop of green to the final presentation.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every layer’s flavor perfectly.
How to Make The Only Lasagna Roll Up Recipe You Need Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package until they are al dente, usually about eight minutes. Cooking just right is key, so the noodles stay firm enough to hold the filling without falling apart during rolling or baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Filling
While the noodles cook, mix together 1 ½ cups ricotta, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, the grated Parmesan, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper in a medium bowl. This combination creates the creamy, flavorful filling that makes these roll-ups irresistible. Stir gently until everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Roll-Ups
Once the noodles are drained and cooled enough to handle, spread about two tablespoons of the cheese filling evenly over each noodle. Roll each noodle tightly from one end to the other, keeping the filling securely inside. This step may become your new favorite—rolling each bundle makes the dish uniquely personal and sure to impress.
Step 4: Layer and Bake
Pour half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor. Place the roll-ups seam-side down in the dish, then spoon the remaining marinara over the top. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella evenly on top for that perfectly cheesy finish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 5 minutes to brown the cheese beautifully.
How to Serve The Only Lasagna Roll Up Recipe You Need Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil leaves not only provides a lovely color contrast but also infuses each bite with fragrant herbaceous notes that complement the rich cheese and tomato sauce. For an extra touch, a dusting of additional Parmesan cheese right before serving turns this dish into a true showstopper.
Side Dishes
Pair your lasagna roll-ups with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness, or garlic bread to soak up every last bit of marinara. Roasted vegetables like zucchini or asparagus also make a colorful and healthy accompaniment that rounds out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve each roll-up on individual plates with a drizzle of basil-infused oil or a spoonful of pesto swirled around the dish. You could also layer the rolls vertically in a clear casserole dish to showcase those tempting spirals of cheese and sauce from the side—a feast both for the eyes and the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftover lasagna roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze individual roll-ups by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe ziplock bag. Frozen, they will keep well for up to two months, making it easy to enjoy The Only Lasagna Roll Up Recipe You Need Recipe anytime you want a comforting meal without the prep hassle.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then warm covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Removing the foil in the last five minutes will help bring back that lovely browned cheese topping that makes this recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe?
No-boil noodles can be used, but it’s best to slightly undercook them beforehand to ensure they are flexible enough to roll without cracking. You may also want to increase the amount of marinara sauce to help soften the noodles during baking.
Is there a vegetarian version of The Only Lasagna Roll Up Recipe You Need Recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegetarian-friendly as it features cheeses and marinara sauce. You can further customize it with added veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining when you want to minimize last-minute kitchen time.
What cheese can I substitute if I don’t have ricotta?
Cottage cheese is a good alternative to ricotta, especially if blended smooth to mimic the texture. You can also try mascarpone for a richer, creamier filling, or a mix of cream cheese and shredded mozzarella if you prefer.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free noodles available at many grocery stores. Just be sure to cook them according to package instructions to maintain the proper texture for rolling.
Final Thoughts
There is something magic about The Only Lasagna Roll Up Recipe You Need Recipe that makes it irresistible — it’s comforting, cheesy, perfectly saucy, and turns a classic into something delightfully fun and fresh. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish never disappoints and always leaves everyone asking for seconds. I can’t wait for you to make it and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
The Only Lasagna Roll Up Recipe You Need Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This classic Lasagna Roll Up recipe offers a simple yet delicious twist on traditional lasagna. Tender lasagna noodles are filled with a creamy ricotta and mozzarella mixture, rolled up, covered in marinara sauce, and baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly cheese topping. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or meal prep, these lasagna roll-ups provide all the flavor of lasagna with less fuss and faster assembly.
Ingredients
Lasagna Roll-Ups
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 2 cups marinara sauce, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, optional for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and boil noodles: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Cook noodles: Add the lasagna noodles to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and lay noodles flat to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the cheese filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Assemble the roll-ups: Spread about 2 tablespoons of the cheese filling evenly over each cooked lasagna noodle. Starting from one end, tightly roll each noodle up to create individual roll-ups.
- Layer and bake: Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of a baking dish. Place the roll-ups seam-side down in the dish. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the roll-ups and sprinkle with the remaining cup of mozzarella cheese.
- Bake and brown cheese: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to allow the cheese topping to brown and bubble.
- Serve: Once baked, let the roll-ups cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, then serve hot.
Notes
- You can prepare the roll-ups ahead of time and refrigerate before baking. Just add extra baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
- Use no-boil noodles for an easier shortcut, but increase baking time accordingly and ensure enough sauce to soften noodles.
- Feel free to add cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or ground meat into the cheese filling for variation.
- To avoid sticking, layer parchment paper between cooked noodles if stacking while assembling.
