Lasagna roll ups are like magic mini-pastas that you can make ahead and freeze for a future feast. Imagine this: swirls of noodle goodness filled with cheesy dreams, all bundled up and ready to save your dinner day. Each bite is like a flavor explosion, and the best part? You can keep them in the freezer, hidden away like secret treasures, waiting for that moment when hunger strikes, and you need a hero dish.
First things first, gather your ingredients. It’s like a food adventure – noodles, ground beef or sausage, onions, garlic, and a can of crushed tomatoes. Spices like oregano and basil join the party, bringing their tasty vibes. Cheese, too! Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan create a melty, gooey wonderland inside each roll.
Cooking is like a fun maze. Boil the noodles until they’re just right. Meanwhile, dance your way through the skillet steps. Brown the beef or sausage, add onions and garlic, and let the tomatoes join the tasty parade. A sprinkle of oregano and basil, plus a dash of salt and pepper, and you’ve got a sauce that’s like a flavor superhero.
Now, here comes the cool part. Lay out those cooked noodles, like blank canvases ready for your culinary masterpiece. Spread ricotta joy, spoon on the meaty sauce, and let the cheese party begin. Roll, tuck, and snug them into a baking dish, then let the oven work its magic.
While they bake, the anticipation grows. The smell, oh the smell! When they come out, all bubbly and golden, it’s like winning a delicious prize. Wait a bit, let them rest – they’re like lasagna rock stars getting ready for their encore.
These Lasagna roll ups aren’t just a meal; they’re a food hug from the past, waiting in your freezer for whenever you need a tasty time-traveling treat.
Lasagna Roll ups
Lasagna Roll ups are a convenient and delicious twist on classic lasagna. This recipe yields 8 servings at an estimated cost of $15-$20, with a total time of 1 hour and 5 minutes. Featuring a flavorful meat sauce, ricotta-filled pasta, and a cheesy topping, these roll ups can be made ahead, frozen, and reheated. Each serving is around 400 calories. The FAQ section covers ingredient substitutions and make-ahead options. Enjoy a tasty lasagna roll ups!
Prep Time 30 minutes mins
Cook Time 25 minutes mins
Resting Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian – American
Servings 8 roll ups
Calories 400 kcal
- 8 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and lay them flat on a clean surface.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or Italian sausage until browned. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until onions are soft.
Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese and the egg. Mix well.
Lay out the cooked lasagna noodles and spread a layer of ricotta mixture on each noodle. Top with a portion of the meat sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
Roll up each lasagna noodle and place seam side down in a greased baking dish.
Pour any remaining meat sauce over the top of the roll ups. Sprinkle with additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the lasagna roll ups rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
- To freeze, allow the rollups to cool completely, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheat frozen rollups in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes.
- Customize with additional vegetables or herbs for added flavor.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
A: Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if desired. The texture may be slightly different, but it’s a suitable alternative.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the lasagna rollups, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Adjust baking time if needed when cooking from cold.
Keyword lasagna, Pasta, Roll ups