Beefy Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups

If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy dinner that’s packed with flavor, look no further than these Beefy Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups. This dish takes the classic lasagna to a fun and approachable new level, rolling tender lasagna noodles around a savory ground beef and cheese filling. Each bite delivers a perfect blend of gooey mozzarella, creamy ricotta, and a punch of Parmesan, all smothered in rich marinara sauce. It’s the ideal meal to impress family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Beefy Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups are a game-changer for pasta night. Unlike traditional lasagna, which can be time-consuming and tricky to slice neatly, roll ups are easy to assemble, portion, and serve. The individual rolls mean everyone gets a perfect cheesy bite every time. Plus, the combination of ground beef sautéed with fragrant onions and garlic brings a hearty depth of flavor. It’s also a great recipe for meal prepping or feeding a crowd, as you can easily double the ingredients. Whether you’re making dinner for the week or a cozy weekend treat, these roll ups won’t disappoint.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 8 lasagna noodles – The base for the roll ups; cooked until al dente for flexibility.
• 1 pound ground beef – Adds protein and savory flavor; opt for lean ground beef for less grease.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used to sauté the onions and garlic, infusing the beef with flavor.
• 1 small onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Brings a fragrant aroma and subtle bite.
• 2 cups ricotta cheese – Creamy and mild, it binds the filling together.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Sharp and nutty, it enhances the cheesy goodness.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided – Melts beautifully for that signature lasagna stretch.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that complements the beef and cheese.
• 1 jar marinara sauce – Choose your favorite brand or homemade sauce for a rich tomato base.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for balancing all the flavors.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Large pot – To boil the lasagna noodles until tender.
• Large skillet – For cooking the ground beef, onions, and garlic.
• Mixing bowl – To combine ricotta, Parmesan, and seasoning.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch) – To assemble and bake the roll ups.
• Spoon or spatula – For spreading the filling and sauce.
• Aluminum foil – To cover the dish while baking and keep moisture locked in.

Beefy Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Cook the lasagna noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and lay the noodles flat on a sheet of parchment paper or clean kitchen towel to cool and prevent them from sticking together.

Step 2: Prepare the beef filling

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix the cheese filling

In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the roll ups

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Take one lasagna noodle and spread a thin layer of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the noodle. Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture on top of the cheese and spread it out. Carefully roll up the noodle from one end to the other and place it seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat with remaining noodles and filling.

Step 5: Top and bake

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the assembled roll ups. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella evenly on top. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Serve and enjoy

Let the roll ups cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. These Beefy Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups pair wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a full meal.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Use fresh spinach or kale mixed into the cheese filling to add greens.
• Swap marinara sauce for a roasted red pepper sauce for a smoky twist.
• In summer, add chopped fresh basil or oregano to the cheese filling for bright herbal notes.
• Use shredded provolone or fontina cheese instead of mozzarella for a different melt and flavor profile.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

• Noodles tearing when rolling: Ensure noodles are cooked al dente and cooled completely. Handle gently when spreading filling.
• Roll ups falling apart: Don’t overload with filling; spread a thin, even layer to keep rolls intact.
• Dry filling: Mix ricotta with a little milk or extra sauce before spreading if the mixture feels too thick.
• Cheese not melting evenly: Cover with foil while baking to trap moisture and remove foil towards the end to brown the cheese.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Store leftover Beefy Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes.

For longer storage, freeze the assembled roll ups (before baking) in a freezer-safe dish covered tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra baking time and keeping covered with foil until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without beef?

Absolutely! You can swap the ground beef for ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based crumbles. For a vegetarian option, consider sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach in place of meat.

What type of cheese is best for the filling?

Ricotta is the classic choice for its creamy texture, but you can also use cottage cheese or a blend of ricotta and cream cheese. Parmesan adds a nice sharpness, while mozzarella melts beautifully on top.

How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together?

Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on parchment paper or a clean kitchen towel. You can also lightly brush them with olive oil to keep them separate and flexible for rolling.

Can I prepare these roll ups ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the roll ups a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if chilled. This makes for an easy, stress-free dinner.

Keep Cooking

• Love cheesy dishes? Try the Ground Beef Grilled Cheese for a quick and satisfying meal.
• For a creamy comfort food classic, check out the Good Ole Mac And Cheese Recipe that’s perfect any day.

See You at the Table

There’s nothing quite like gathering around the table with family and friends to enjoy a delicious meal, and these Beefy Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups make that moment even more special. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend celebration, this recipe brings warmth, comfort, and a little bit of Italian magic to your home. So grab your apron, get rolling, and savor every cheesy, beefy bite. Happy cooking!

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