Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a delightful twist on a classic Italian favorite? These Baked Lasagna Roll Ups are not just a meal; they’re a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy! Imagine tender lasagna noodles, lovingly rolled around a creamy ricotta filling, smothered in rich marinara sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, this dish promises to impress and satisfy. With just 20 minutes of prep time and a total cooking time of under an hour, you’ll be savoring every bite in no time. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to bring restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 8 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and lay flat on a clean kitchen towel to cool and prevent sticking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, half of the mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Lay each lasagna noodle flat and spread an even layer of the ricotta mixture across its length, leaving a small border at the edges.
- Carefully roll up each noodle from one end to the other, creating a compact roll.
- Place the rolled lasagna noodles seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are evenly covered.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the rolls.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set.
- Garnish with fresh basil or additional parmesan cheese if desired, and serve hot.
Tips
- Cook Noodles Al Dente: Make sure to cook your lasagna noodles just until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven. This helps prevent them from becoming too soft and falling apart.
- Prevent Sticking: After draining the noodles, lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to cool. This will keep them from sticking together, making it easier to roll them up later.
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients to the ricotta mixture, such as spinach, herbs, or even cooked ground meat for an extra flavor boost.
- Layering is Key: Don’t skimp on the marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish; it not only adds flavor but also helps keep the noodles from sticking.
- Foil It Up: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil during the first part of baking to trap steam and keep the rolls moist. Remove the foil towards the end for that perfect golden cheese topping.
- Let It Rest: Allow the lasagna roll ups to rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh basil or additional parmesan cheese just before serving adds a beautiful touch and enhances the dish's flavor.Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a lasagna dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 95mg
