Cheesy Beef Lasagna Roll Ups with Rich Marinara Sauce

These beefy lasagna roll ups are a delicious twist on classic lasagna, featuring tender pasta rolled around a savory beef and ricotta filling, all smothered in marinara sauce and topped with gooey melted cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion, this dish is both comforting and impressive, making it a delightful meal that everyone will love.

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Number of Servings: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 2 roll ups (approx. 300g/10.5oz)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Sugar: 8g
• Fiber: 5g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 800mg

Ingredients List

For the Roll Ups:

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 450g (1 lb) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 250g (1 cup) ricotta cheese
• 120g (1 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 60g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For the Sauce:

• 700g (24oz) marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Detailed Method of Preparation

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish.
2. Cook the lasagna noodles:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and lay them flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
3. Prepare the beef filling:
   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper, and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the mixture aside to cool slightly.
4. Make the cheese filling:
   In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella (60g / 1/2 cup), half of the grated Parmesan (30g / 1/4 cup), the egg, and chopped parsley. Stir in the cooked beef mixture and mix well.
5. Prepare the sauce:
   In a medium bowl, combine the marinara sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Spread 1 cup of the sauce evenly on the bottom of the greased baking dish.
6. Assemble the roll ups:
   Spread 2-3 tablespoons of the beef and cheese filling evenly along each lasagna noodle. Roll each noodle up tightly, starting at one end. Place the roll ups seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
7. Add the remaining sauce and cheese:
   Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the lasagna roll ups, covering them completely. Sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake:
   Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
9. Garnish and serve:
   Let the lasagna roll ups rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra chopped parsley and a little more Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Culinary Success

1. Avoid overcooking the noodles: Make sure the noodles are cooked just until al dente, as they will continue to soften when baked.
2. Use freshly grated cheese: For the best melting and flavor, grate the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded cheese.
3. Make it ahead: You can prepare the roll ups and assemble them in the baking dish up to a day in advance. Store in the refrigerator, and bake when ready.
4. Try different fillings: Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and nutrients.
5. Cover the dish when baking: The foil helps prevent the cheese from browning too quickly. If you prefer a more browned top, broil the dish for 2-3 minutes after removing the foil.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I make these lasagna roll ups vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the beef and replace it with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. You could also use plant-based ground meat as an alternative.

Q2: What’s the best way to freeze these lasagna roll ups?
To freeze, assemble the roll ups in a freezer-safe dish, but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

Q3: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Lasagna noodles work best for this recipe because they are wide and flat. However, if you’re looking for a variation, you could use large pasta shells and stuff them with the filling.

Q4: How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat leftover roll ups in a preheated 175°C (350°F) oven for about 20 minutes, covered with foil. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

Q5: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free lasagna noodles and make sure your marinara sauce is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

If you’re craving classic lasagna flavors with a twist, these beefy lasagna roll ups are the perfect choice. Easy to serve and share, they offer all the comforting tastes of a traditional lasagna in a fun, rolled-up package. Try this recipe for your next dinner gathering, and watch it become a new family favorite!