lasagna rolls recipe

Lasagna rolls are a creative twist on the classic layered lasagna, featuring individual pasta sheets rolled with a rich filling. They offer all the flavor of traditional lasagna but in perfectly portioned servings.

This recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for gatherings and special occasions. Each roll combines creamy cheese, savory sauce, and tender pasta for comfort in every bite.

Whether baked with marinara, topped with extra mozzarella, or paired with a crisp salad, lasagna rolls make an impressive and delicious meal.

Ingredients List

– 12 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2 cups fresh spinach, sautéed and drained (optional)
– 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage, cooked and drained
– 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom.

Step 2: Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and lay flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, spinach (if using), garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and well blended.

Step 4: Lay out a lasagna noodle and spread about 2–3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture evenly across the surface. Add a spoonful of cooked beef or sausage. Roll the noodle tightly from one end to the other.

Step 5: Place each roll seam-side down into the prepared baking dish. Repeat with remaining noodles and filling.

Step 6: Pour remaining marinara sauce over the rolls. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.

Step 7: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 8: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with garlic bread or salad.

Cook Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Servings

Serves 6–8

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

Calories: 410
Carbs: 32g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 19g

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze uncooked rolls individually on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to cook time.

Pairings/Suggestions

Lasagna rolls pair perfectly with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve with soup such as minestrone or tomato basil. A glass of red wine like Chianti or Merlot complements the flavors beautifully.

Seasonal Relevance

These lasagna rolls are ideal for cozy fall and winter dinners, family gatherings, or holiday potlucks. They’re also great for spring celebrations and summer dinner parties since they can be made ahead and baked when needed.

Health Benefits

Lasagna rolls provide a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fats, making them satisfying and filling. Spinach adds iron, fiber, and vitamins, while tomatoes in the sauce are rich in antioxidants like lycopene. Using part-skim ricotta and lean beef can reduce fat content without sacrificing taste.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Individual servings for easy portion control	Requires extra prep time compared to traditional lasagna
Customizable with various fillings and sauces	Can be messy to roll noodles if overfilled
Freezer-friendly for make-ahead meals	Not ideal for very low-carb diets
Elegant presentation for gatherings	Needs oven space and baking time

Conclusion

Lasagna rolls are a fun, delicious, and versatile spin on classic lasagna. With cheesy filling, rich marinara, and perfectly rolled pasta, they deliver comfort food appeal with a beautiful presentation.

Whether you’re cooking for family, preparing ahead for the week, or hosting guests, these rolls are sure to impress. Easy to customize, freezer-friendly, and absolutely satisfying, they’re a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make lasagna rolls vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the meat and add more spinach, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

Q2: Can I prepare lasagna rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the rolls, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q3: What noodles work best for lasagna rolls?
Classic flat lasagna noodles work best. Avoid no-boil noodles, as they may crack when rolling.