Lasagna Roll Ups
Lasagna roll ups offer a creative and fun way to enjoy the classic flavors of lasagna, wrapped in tender pasta and filled with a savory blend of cheese, spinach, and meat. This dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect choice for family dinners or gatherings. Dive into this recipe to learn how to make these delicious roll ups that will impress everyone at the table!
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups spinach (cooked and chopped)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 roll up) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. This nutritional breakdown is perfect for a balanced meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, spinach, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- On a flat surface, lay out a cooked lasagna noodle and spread 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture over it.
- Roll the noodle tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Repeat with remaining noodles and filling.
- Top the roll ups with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different flavor. Additionally, using zucchini noodles instead of traditional lasagna noodles can create a gluten-free version of this dish.
Serving and Pairings
These lasagna roll ups pair beautifully with a fresh Caesar salad or garlic bread. A glass of red wine can also complement the flavors perfectly, making for a well-rounded meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze the roll ups before baking for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the noodles can make them tear when rolling.
- Using too much filling may cause the roll ups to burst.
- Not draining the spinach well can make the filling watery.
- Skipping the preheating step can lead to uneven cooking.
- Not covering the dish while baking can dry out the roll ups.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors.
- Let the roll ups cool slightly before serving to maintain their shape.
- Use fresh herbs like basil for added freshness.
- Prepare the roll ups ahead of time and bake just before serving.
FAQs
Can I make lasagna roll ups ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the roll ups a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them right before serving for the best results.
What other fillings can I use?
Feel free to get creative! You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or substitute the meat with a vegetarian option like lentils or tofu.
Can I freeze lasagna roll ups?
Absolutely! Assemble the roll ups without baking, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake them directly from the freezer; just add extra time.
How do I know when they are done?
The roll ups are done when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown on top.
Can I make a gluten-free version?
Yes, using gluten-free lasagna noodles or zucchini slices makes a great gluten-free alternative.
Conclusion
Lasagna roll ups are a delightful twist on a classic dish that brings both flavor and fun to the dinner table. With their cheesy filling and savory sauce, they are sure to become a family favorite. Try making them today for a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy!
Lasagna Roll Ups
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups spinach cooked and chopped
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 lb ground beef cooked
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, spinach, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- On a flat surface, lay out a cooked lasagna noodle and spread 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture over it.
- Roll the noodle tightly and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Repeat with remaining noodles and filling.
- Top the roll ups with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with extra mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.