Cheesy Lasagna Roll-Ups

Enjoy the ultimate in comfort food with these Cheesy Lasagna Roll-Ups, featuring savory Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella.

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

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

Variations

• Richness: Add a layer of grated mozzarella between the noodles and meat sauce before baking for extra richness.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the Italian sausage with a mix of sautéed vegetables or a meat substitute.

Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
   Yes, homemade marinara works great in this recipe.
2. Can I freeze these roll-ups?
   Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
3. How do I ensure the noodles don’t stick together?
   Make sure the noodles are well-coated with oil or cooking spray after cooking to prevent sticking.
4. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
   You can use cottage cheese or a blend of cream cheese and Greek yogurt as alternatives.
5. How can I make these roll-ups spicier?
   Add red pepper flakes to the meat sauce or mix in some chopped jalapeños.
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, try using provolone or a mix of cheeses based on your preference.
7. What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch baking dish?
   You can use any similar-sized dish or adjust the cooking time if using a different size.
8. Can I prepare these roll-ups ahead of time?
   Yes, assemble and refrigerate them up to a day in advance before baking.
9. How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
   Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini with the meat sauce.
10. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
    Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Cheesy Lasagna Roll-Ups are a delectable and comforting meal perfect for family dinners. With layers of meat sauce, creamy cheese filling, and melted mozzarella, these roll-ups are sure to please everyone at the table!

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