Cheesy Lasagna Roll-Ups

These Cheesy Lasagna Roll-Ups bring the classic comfort of lasagna into a fun and convenient format. With layers of savory meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and gooey mozzarella, these roll-ups are sure to be a hit at any dinner table. Ideal for a family meal or meal prep, they combine all the best flavors of lasagna in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (or 2 teaspoons dried basil)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the 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 set aside.
3. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the sausage is browned and the onion is tender. Drain excess fat. Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Mix the Cheese Filling:
   In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
5. Assemble the Roll-Ups:
   Spread a thin layer of the meat sauce in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Lay a cooked lasagna noodle on a flat surface. Spread about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture evenly over the noodle. Roll the noodle up tightly and place seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining noodles and cheese mixture.
6. Top and Bake:
   Pour the remaining meat sauce over the roll-ups. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Serve:
   Allow the roll-ups to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.

Servings and Timing:

• Serving Size: 2 roll-ups
• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Calorie Count: Approximately 400 kcal per serving

Variations:

1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute Italian sausage with a mix of sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini.
2. Different Meats: Use ground beef, turkey, or chicken in place of Italian sausage for a different flavor.
3. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the meat sauce for some heat.
4. Cheese Mix: Experiment with different cheese blends such as a mix of mozzarella and provolone for extra flavor.
5. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Storage and Reheating:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• Freezing: These roll-ups can be frozen before baking. Assemble the roll-ups, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different sauce?
   Yes, you can use marinara, meat sauce, or even a white sauce for a different twist.
2. Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?
   Absolutely! Assemble them a day or two in advance and keep them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
3. Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
   Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles. Just make sure they are covered with enough sauce to cook properly.
4. What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
   You can substitute with cottage cheese or a mixture of cream cheese and sour cream.
5. How can I make this recipe lower in fat?
   Use lean turkey sausage or chicken sausage, low-fat ricotta cheese, and reduced-fat mozzarella.
6. Can I add vegetables to the filling?
   Yes, finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be mixed into the cheese filling for added nutrition.
7. How do I make the roll-ups stay together?
   Make sure the noodles are cooked al dente and that the cheese filling is spread evenly. Rolling them tightly will also help keep them together.
8. Can I use a different type of cheese for the topping?
   Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as provolone or Gouda, for a different flavor.
9. What side dishes go well with this casserole?
   A simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement this dish well.
10. Can I use frozen meat sauce?
    Yes, if you have frozen meat sauce, thaw it and use it in place of the homemade sauce.

Conclusion:

Cheesy Lasagna Roll-Ups offer all the comfort and flavor of traditional lasagna with an added twist that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With a rich meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and gooey mozzarella topping, these roll-ups are sure to be a hit. Enjoy them as a delicious meal or prepare them ahead of time for an easy, satisfying dinner!

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