Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of bubbling marinara fills the kitchen as I pull a tray of savory Lasagna Roll Ups from the oven—this dish transports me to a cozy Italian trattoria. These delightful rolls are layered with zesty Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and vibrant spinach, creating a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug. This Lasagna Roll Ups recipe is not just a simple recipe; it’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings with the family—kids will love them, and you’ll appreciate the stress-free prep. Plus, they make for amazing leftovers, ensuring you can savor each bite more than once. Ready to roll up your sleeves and make a new family favorite? Let’s dive in! Why try this Lasagna Roll Ups recipe? Comforting, Kid-Friendly Delight: With its layers of savory Italian sausage and creamy ricotta, this dish is a surefire hit for both kids and adults. Easy Prep: You’ll enjoy how straightforward this lasagna roll ups recipe is—perfect for busy weeknights. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to switch the sausage for ground turkey or even sneak in your family’s favorite veggies, like mushrooms or zucchini. Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the rolls in advance and bake them later, making dinner planning a breeze. Ample Leftovers: These roll-ups store beautifully, ensuring that your family can enjoy delicious homemade meals throughout the week, just like my Raspberry Pie Discover. Embrace comfort food done right with this delightful variation on a classic Italian dish! Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe Ingredients For the Filling • Lasagna Sheets – Essential for rolling and structure; Barilla lasagna sheets make a great choice. • Italian Sausage (or ground turkey) – Adds a savory flavor; feel free to substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option. • Ricotta Cheese – Provides creaminess; can be swapped with full-fat cottage cheese if needed. • Spinach – Boosts nutrition and adds color; using fresh, chopped spinach is recommended. • Egg – Helps bind the ricotta mixture together, adding richness to the filling. For the Sauce • Canned Tomato Sauce – Acts as the base for moisture and flavor; use your favorite jarred pasta sauce for convenience. • Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness; you can substitute with red or white onion if you prefer a different flavor. • Garlic Cloves – Intensifies aroma and flavor; fresh garlic is always best for taste. • Parsley, Basil, Oregano – Fresh herbs can replace dried for enhanced flavor. For Topping and Texture • Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully on top; always choose shredded for better melt. • Parmesan Cheese – Adds umami richness; freshly grated Parmesan offers the finest taste. With this comprehensive ingredients list for the Lasagna Roll Ups recipe, you’re all set to create a dish that captures the heart and soul of Italian cooking! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe Step 1: Prepare Lasagna Sheets Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Carefully add the lasagna sheets and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the sheets in a colander and lay them out flat on a clean surface to cool and separate while preparing the filling. Step 2: Cook the Filling In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Crumble in the Italian sausage, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and your choice of herbs, then add the canned tomato sauce, simmering for 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens. Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling While the sauce simmers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, the egg, ¼ cup grated Parmesan, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and chopped spinach. Stir until well blended and creamy. This flavorful mixture will be the heart of your Lasagna Roll Ups. Step 4: Assemble the Roll Ups Spread ¼ cup of the meat sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish. Take a lasagna sheet and lay it flat; spoon 2 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture onto the sheet, followed by 2 tablespoons of the meat sauce. Carefully roll the sheet into a tight cylinder and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this for all sheets. Step 5: Top and Bake Once all Lasagna Roll Ups are in the dish, pour the remaining meat sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously across the rolls. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to trap the moisture, then place it in the preheated oven to bake for 40 minutes. Step 6: Finish Baking and Cool After 40 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to bubble and turn golden. Once done, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This helps the rolls set and makes serving easier, so you can enjoy your lovely Lasagna Roll Ups! Expert Tips for Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe • Cook Al Dente: Ensure the lasagna sheets are cooked only until al dente; this prevents them from becoming mushy during baking. • Cool Before Cutting: Allow the baked rolls to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps them maintain their shape and prevents filling from spilling out. • Prep Ahead: For a make-ahead option, assemble the Lasagna Roll Ups and refrigerate them uncooked. When ready, bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. • Tight Wrapping: To preserve leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Alternatively, freeze for longer storage. • Mix It Up: Don’t hesitate to customize the filling with veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or even different cheeses for a unique twist on this classic Lasagna Roll Ups recipe. How to Store and Freeze Lasagna Roll Ups Fridge: Keep your lasagna roll ups in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. This way, you’ll enjoy those delicious flavors throughout the week! Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual roll ups tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight bag. They can be frozen for up to a month. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the frozen lasagna roll ups covered with foil for about 40 minutes until heated through. Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them uncooked. Bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed. What to Serve with Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe Pair your delightful rolls with some hearty sides to create a memorable Italian meal for your family. Garlic Bread: Crispy with a buttery flavor, it’s perfect for scooping up the extra sauce. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the rolls. Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green side adds a healthy touch and balances the richness of the dish. Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes and salty mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze refresh the palate between bites. Italian Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or Merlot enhances the meal’s flavors and complements the classic Italian essence. Tiramisu: End your dinner with this luscious coffee-flavored dessert, offering a sweet finish to a savory night. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized bell peppers and zucchini create a lovely, earthy side, bringing a touch of warmth to the plate. Pesto Pasta: Tossed with fresh basil, this simple pasta adds a new flavor layer to your comforting meal. Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Drizzle this on your bread or salad for an aromatic burst that elevates the whole experience. Chocolate Mousse: For a decadent dessert that pairs beautifully with the Italian theme—rich and airy with each spoonful. Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe Variations Feel free to explore these delightful variations to make your Lasagna Roll Ups your own! Ground Turkey: Swap Italian sausage with ground turkey for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. This substitution still allows the dish to shine, catering to healthier preferences. Extra Veggies: Add shredded zucchini or sautéed mushrooms to the ricotta mix for an extra punch of nutrition and flavor. Each roll becomes a colorful canvas brimming with goodness and flavor! Spicy Kick: Include crushed red pepper flakes to the meat sauce for a thrilling touch of heat. Perfect for spice lovers, this twist ensures every bite dances on the palate. No-Boil Sheets: Save time by using no-boil lasagna sheets; simply layer them uncooked in the dish for effortless assembly. This addition makes busy weeknights feel like a breeze when dinner is on the table. Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses, like goat cheese or a sprinkle of feta, for a unique creamy filling that tantalizes the taste buds. This variation can breathe life into traditional flavors. Pesto Infusion: Mix in a tablespoon or two of pesto with your ricotta for a fresh, herby guarantee. This variation can transform your roll-ups into a garden-inspired dish that’s vibrant and memorable. Saucy Delight: Add a layer of béchamel sauce on top for an indulgent creamy twist that makes every bite extra luscious. It’s a fabulous way to reinvent your classic dish! Vegan Alternative: For a plant-based option, use lentils or chickpeas in place of meat and tofu ricotta for a hearty and satisfying meal. Check out these No-Bake Peanut Butter Oat Cups for more delicious vegan inspiration! With these variations, you’ll always have a new twist awaiting your family at the dinner table. Dive in where all the flavor adventures await! Make Ahead Options These Lasagna Roll Ups are perfect for meal prep, helping you save valuable time during busy weeknights! You can assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance by preparing them, placing them in a baking dish, and covering them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. This keeps them fresh and ready to pop in the oven later. If you prefer longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked rolls for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake straight from the refrigerator at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-50 minutes, or if frozen, increase the baking time to 60-70 minutes. This way, you’ll savor the same delicious, comforting flavors without the last-minute rush! Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe FAQs What type of lasagna sheets should I use? Absolutely! I recommend using Barilla lasagna sheets for their structure and ease of use. If you prefer a quicker option, no-boil lasagna sheets can save you time without sacrificing flavor. How do I store leftover Lasagna Roll Ups? Store your leftover Lasagna Roll Ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. For best results, allow them to cool completely before sealing. This keeps the flavors intact and prevents sogginess! Can you freeze Lasagna Roll Ups? Very! To freeze, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the frozen rolls covered for about 40 minutes. What if the filling is too runny? If your ricotta mixture seems too runny, consider adding an extra egg or some grated Parmesan cheese to help bind everything together. It’s all about achieving that perfect creamy texture without excess moisture. Also, ensure your spinach is well-drained. Can I use this recipe for a gluten-free version? Of course! You can easily switch to gluten-free lasagna sheets, which are widely available. Just ensure you follow the cooking instructions on the package, as they may differ from traditional sheets. Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind? Make sure to check ingredient labels for common allergens like dairy in the ricotta and mozzarella. If cooking for someone with a specific dietary restriction, you can substitute ricotta with dairy-free alternatives or even use tofu for a vegan option! Delicious Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe for Family Comfort Food This Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe is a comforting dish layered with savory Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and vibrant spinach, perfect for busy weeknights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 55 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins Servings: 4 rollsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Filling Ingredients9 sheets Lasagna Sheets Barilla lasagna sheets recommended1 lb Italian Sausage or ground turkey for a leaner option15 oz Ricotta Cheese or cottage cheese1 cup Spinach Fresh, chopped spinach1 large EggSauce Ingredients24 oz Canned Tomato Sauce or favorite jarred pasta sauce1 medium Yellow Onion or red/white onion3 cloves Garlic Cloves minced1 tbsp Parsley Fresh herbs recommended1 tbsp Basil Fresh herbs recommended1 tbsp Oregano Fresh herbs recommendedTopping Ingredients2 cups Mozzarella Cheese shredded1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated Equipment large potSkilletmixing bowlBaking dishColander Method Preparation StepsBoil salted water in a large pot, add lasagna sheets, and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and cool on a clean surface.In a skillet, heat olive oil, sauté chopped onion for 3-4 minutes, then add crumbled Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and herbs, add tomato sauce, and simmer for 10-15 minutes.Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, ¼ cup grated Parmesan, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and chopped spinach. Stir until creamy.Spread ¼ cup meat sauce on a baking dish. Take a lasagna sheet, spoon 2 tablespoons ricotta mixture and 2 tablespoons meat sauce, roll them tightly and place seam-side down in the dish.Pour remaining meat sauce over the rolls and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1rollCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg NotesAllow lasagna sheets to cool before cutting to maintain shape. For make-ahead options, assemble and refrigerate uncooked, baking directly from the fridge when ready. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
