The Ultimate Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe: A Delicious Twist on Classic Lasagna

If you’re looking for a fun, flavorful, and visually stunning twist on traditional lasagna, Lasagna Roll Ups are the perfect dish to try! These rolled-up pasta delights are filled with a creamy three-cheese mixture, layered with a rich meat sauce, and topped with gooey melted mozzarella. Not only are they easier to serve than traditional lasagna, but they also make for an impressive presentation at family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the best Lasagna Roll Ups—from ingredient selection to step-by-step cooking instructions, plus expert tips, variations, and storage advice. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home cook, this recipe will help you create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe

✅ Perfectly Portioned – Each roll is an individual serving, making them great for meal prep or dinner parties.
✅ Rich & Flavorful – A blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese mixed with Italian herbs creates an irresistible filling.
✅ Customizable – Easily adapt this recipe with different fillings (vegetarian, chicken, or seafood).
✅ Great for Freezing – Make ahead and freeze for a quick, delicious meal later.
✅ Crowd-Pleasing – A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults!

Now, let’s dive into the details of making the best Lasagna Roll Ups you’ve ever tasted.

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Ingredients for Lasagna Roll Ups

Before you start cooking, gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cheese Filling

• 15 oz. ricotta cheese (whole milk for best texture)

• 1 large egg (helps bind the filling)

• 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon each: salt, dried basil, dried parsley

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Meat Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small yellow onion, diced

• ½ lb. ground beef (85/15 lean-to-fat ratio)

• ½ lb. ground Italian sausage (hot or mild, based on preference)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup chicken broth (adds depth of flavor)

• 32 oz. marinara sauce (homemade or high-quality store-bought)

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for umami flavor)

• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for a slight kick)

Lasagna Noodles & Topping

• 12 lasagna noodles (plus extra in case of breakage)

• 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese (for topping)

Equipment Needed

• 9 x 13-inch casserole dish

• Large pot for boiling noodles

• Skillet for meat sauce

• Mixing bowls

• Silicone spatula

• Aluminum foil

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Lasagna Roll Ups

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Filling

1. In a medium bowl, combine:

   • Ricotta cheese

   • Egg

   • Mozzarella

   • Parmesan

   • Oregano, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper

2. Mix until well combined, then set aside.

Step 2: Make the Meat Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add diced onions and sauté for 10 minutes until softened.

3. Increase heat to medium-high, add ground beef and sausage, and cook until browned (8-10 minutes).

4. Add minced garlic in the last minute.

5. Drain excess grease, then pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan.

6. Stir in marinara sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using).

7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes while you prepare the noodles.

Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook lasagna noodles until al dente (follow package instructions).

3. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna Roll Ups

1. Spread ½ cup marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.

2. Lay out cooked noodles on parchment or wax paper.

3. Spread 2½ tablespoons of cheese filling evenly over each noodle.

4. Top with ¼ cup meat sauce per noodle.

5. Roll up tightly (keeping filling inside) and place seam-side down in the dish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. Top roll-ups with remaining meat sauce and mozzarella cheese.

3. Cover with foil (sprayed with nonstick spray) to prevent sticking.

4. Bake for 35 minutes.

5. Optional: Remove foil and broil for 2-3 minutes for a golden top.

6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

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 The Secret to Perfect Lasagna Roll Ups – Choosing the Right Ingredients

When it comes to making the best Lasagna Roll Ups, ingredient selection is key. Every component—from the cheese to the noodles—plays a crucial role in the final dish’s texture and flavor. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the best ingredients to use and why they matter.

1. The Cheese Filling: Creamy, Flavorful, and Well-Balanced

The cheese mixture is the heart of Lasagna Roll Ups. A perfect blend should be rich, creamy, and well-seasoned. Here’s what you need:

• Ricotta Cheese – Opt for whole-milk ricotta for the creamiest texture. Low-fat versions can make the filling grainy.

• Mozzarella – Freshly shredded mozzarella melts better than pre-shredded (which contains anti-caking agents).

• Parmesan – Always use freshly grated Parmesan for superior flavor. Pre-grated versions often lack depth.

• Egg – Acts as a binder, preventing the filling from oozing out when baked.

• Herbs & Seasonings – Dried basil, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper enhance the Italian flavors.

Pro Tip: For extra creaminess, mix in 2 oz. of cream cheese with the ricotta.

2. The Meat Sauce: Rich, Savory, and Well-Seasoned

A robust meat sauce elevates Lasagna Roll Ups from good to restaurant-quality. Here’s how to perfect it:

• Ground Beef & Italian Sausage – A 50/50 mix of beef and sausage adds depth. Sausage brings extra seasoning and fat for juiciness.

• Onions & Garlic – Sauté until golden for sweet, caramelized flavors.

• Marinara Sauce – Use a high-quality jarred sauce (like Rao’s) or homemade for the best taste.

• Chicken Broth – Deglazes the pan, adding umami richness.

• Worcestershire & Hot Sauce (Optional) – A dash of each deepens flavor with a slight kick.

Pro Tip: Simmer the sauce for at least 15 minutes to thicken and intensify flavors.

3. Lasagna Noodles: The Foundation

Choosing and cooking noodles correctly ensures your roll-ups hold together.

• Traditional vs. No-Boil Noodles – Regular lasagna noodles are preferred for better texture, but no-boil can work (adjust baking time).

• Cook to Al Dente – Overcooked noodles tear easily. Follow package instructions and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.

• Extra Noodles – Always boil 2-3 extra in case of breakage.

Pro Tip: Lay noodles flat on parchment paper after boiling to prevent sticking.

4. The Final Touch: Melty Mozzarella Topping

A generous layer of mozzarella cheese on top creates that irresistible golden, bubbly crust. Use 1.5 cups for full coverage.

By selecting high-quality ingredients and following these tips, your Lasagna Roll Ups will be flavorful, well-textured, and visually stunning every time.

 Step-by-Step Cooking Techniques for Flawless Lasagna Roll Ups

Even with the best ingredients, technique makes all the difference in Lasagna Roll Ups. Follow these steps for perfectly assembled, baked, and served roll-ups.

1. Preparing the Cheese Filling

• Mix Gently – Overmixing ricotta can make it gluey. Stir just until combined.

• Taste & Adjust – Before filling noodles, taste the mixture and add more salt/herbs if needed.

2. Cooking the Meat Sauce

• Brown Meat Properly – Cook beef and sausage until deeply caramelized (not gray) for maximum flavor.

• Deglaze with Broth – Scrape up browned bits for extra richness.

• Simmer for Depth – Letting the sauce simmer 15+ minutes melds flavors beautifully.

3. Boiling & Handling Noodles

• Salt the Water – Like pasta, noodles need well-salted water for seasoning.

• Don’t Overcrowd – Boil in batches if needed to prevent sticking.

• Rinse with Cold Water – Stops cooking and makes noodles easier to handle.

4. Assembling the Roll-Ups

• Spread Evenly – Use 2½ tbsp cheese filling + ¼ cup sauce per noodle.

• Roll Tightly, Seam Down – Prevents unraveling during baking.

• Sauce the Dish First – A thin layer of marinara on the bottom prevents sticking.

5. Baking for Perfect Melt & Texture

• Cover with Foil – Prevents cheese from burning while ensuring even cooking.

• Broil for Crispiness (Optional) – For a golden top, broil 2-3 minutes at the end.

6. Resting Before Serving

Let Lasagna Roll Ups sit 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps them set for cleaner slicing.

Pro Tip: Use a sharp knife to cut through neatly.

By mastering these techniques, your Lasagna Roll Ups will be structurally sound, evenly cooked, and bursting with flavor in every bite.

 Creative Variations & Serving Ideas for Lasagna Roll Ups

One of the best things about Lasagna Roll Ups is their versatility. Whether you want a vegetarian twist, a spicy kick, or a make-ahead meal, these variations keep the dish exciting.

1. Vegetarian Lasagna Roll Ups

• Filling: Replace meat with:

  • Sautéed spinach + mushrooms

  • Roasted zucchini + bell peppers

• Sauce: Use marinara or creamy Alfredo.

• Cheese: Add goat cheese for tanginess.

2. Chicken Alfredo Roll Ups

• Filling: Shredded chicken + garlic Parmesan Alfredo sauce.

• Cheese: Blend ricotta with cream cheese for extra richness.

• Topping: Crispy bacon bits.

3. Spicy Mexican-Inspired Roll Ups

• Filling: Ground beef + taco seasoning + black beans + corn.

• Sauce: Enchilada sauce instead of marinara.

• Topping: Pepper Jack cheese + fresh cilantro.

4. Seafood Lasagna Roll Ups

• Filling: Lump crab + shrimp + lemon zest.

• Sauce: White wine cream sauce.

• Cheese: Swap mozzarella for fontina.

5. Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly Tips

• Assemble Unbaked: Refrigerate for 24 hours or freeze for 3 months.

• Bake from Frozen: Add 20 extra minutes covered.

6. Serving Suggestions

• With Garlic Bread & Salad – Classic Italian combo.

• As Appetizers – Cut roll-ups in half for bite-sized portions.

• Meal Prep – Portion into containers for easy lunches.

Expert Tips for the Best Lasagna Roll Ups

🔹 Prevent Noodle Breakage – Cook 2-3 extra noodles in case some tear.
🔹 Avoid Soggy Roll-Ups – Don’t overcook noodles; al dente is key.
🔹 Enhance Flavor – Use freshly grated Parmesan (not pre-shredded) for better melting.
🔹 Make Ahead – Assemble roll-ups 1 day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
🔹 Freezing Instructions – Wrap unbaked roll-ups tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

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Variations & Substitutions

Vegetarian Lasagna Roll Ups

• Replace meat with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini.

• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Chicken Alfredo Roll Ups

• Swap marinara for Alfredo sauce.

• Use shredded chicken instead of beef/sausage.

Gluten-Free Option

• Use gluten-free lasagna noodles.

Spicy Kick

• Add red pepper flakes to the cheese filling.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair your Lasagna Roll Ups with:

• Garlic bread

• Caesar salad

• Roasted vegetables

• A glass of red wine

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Storing & Reheating

Refrigerator

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

• Freeze unbaked or baked roll-ups for up to 3 months.

• Thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Microwave: 2-3 minutes (covered).

• Oven: 350°F for 15-20 minutes (covered with foil).

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust baking time (add 10-15 minutes covered).

Can I make Lasagna Roll Ups without meat?

Absolutely! Use vegetarian fillings like spinach and ricotta.

Why is my filling runny?

• Too much sauce on noodles before rolling.

• Ricotta wasn’t drained well (use whole-milk ricotta).

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Final Thoughts

Lasagna Roll Ups are a fun, delicious, and versatile alternative to traditional lasagna. With a creamy cheese filling, hearty meat sauce, and bubbly melted mozzarella, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.