How to Make the World’s Greatest Lasagna Roll Ups

Intro

Lasagna Roll Ups hold a special place in my heart. As a child, I vividly remember gathering in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, the aroma of rich tomato sauce and melted cheese wafting through the air. We’d all take turns rolling the tender noodles around creamy ricotta filling, giggling as we sneaked bits of cheese into our mouths. This recipe for the World’s Greatest Lasagna Roll Ups is a tribute to those cherished memories, combining classic flavors with a fun twist. Let’s embark on this delicious journey together!

Why You’ll Love It

These Lasagna Roll Ups are not only incredibly tasty but also incredibly simple to make. With all the flavors of traditional lasagna wrapped up in a convenient roll, they’re perfect for portion control and easy serving. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or entertaining guests, these roll ups are sure to impress. Plus, they’re customizable to suit various dietary preferences and are kid-friendly too!

Ingredients

• 1 can tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 can fire roasted diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon black ground pepper
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 12 lasagna noodles
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup Parmesan Reggiano, grated
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 can tomato paste
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef and Italian sausage.
2. In a separate pan on medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, and basil for about 6-8 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the sautéed mixture to the meat. Stir in the fire roasted diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley. Simmer uncovered for 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles for 8-10 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
5. In a small mixing bowl, combine the remaining parsley, ricotta cheese, egg, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix well to incorporate.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
7. Spread some of the meat sauce on the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch glass baking dish.
8. Lay a lasagna noodle on a flat surface and spread with the ricotta mixture. Sprinkle with Parmesan Reggiano cheese and gently roll the noodle.
9. Place the roll ups seam side down in the prepared baking dish. Cover each with a little more meat sauce and top with slices of mozzarella cheese.
10. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
11. Allow the roll ups to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips

For perfectly cooked noodles, ensure you don’t over-boil them. They should be al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking. Additionally, letting the lasagna roll ups rest after baking helps the ingredients set, making them easier to serve.

Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with different proteins such as turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, swap out the meat for sautéed mushrooms and zucchini. You can also use gluten-free lasagna noodles if you’re catering to dietary restrictions.

Storage

Leftover lasagna roll ups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, simply thaw (if frozen) and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

FAQ

Can I make these lasagna roll ups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the roll ups and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests.

What can I serve with lasagna roll ups?

These roll ups pair wonderfully with a simple green salad and garlic bread. You can also serve them with roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutrition

Each serving of lasagna roll ups is rich in protein and provides a good source of calcium and iron. For those watching their calorie intake, consider using lower-fat cheeses and leaner cuts of meat.

Conclusion

There you have it! Whether you’re recreating a beloved family tradition or starting a new one of your own, these World’s Greatest Lasagna Roll Ups are sure to become a household favorite. Packed with flavor and fun to make, they bring a delightful twist to a classic dish. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. Happy cooking!

Related update: How to make the World’s Greatest Lasagna Roll Ups

Related update: Penne with Goat Cheese and Basil