Incredible Lasagna Roll-Ups

This lasagna rollups recipe transforms a classic comfort food into a fun and manageable portioned dish. It combines the rich flavors of a hearty meat sauce with creamy ricotta and spinach filling all wrapped inside tender lasagna noodles. Perfect for family dinners or casual get togethers, this recipe delivers the warmth and satisfaction of traditional lasagna with an easy to serve twist.

I first made this dish when I wanted a new way to serve lasagna without the fuss of layering. Now it’s a favorite for potlucks because everyone gets their own perfect rollup to enjoy.

Ingredients

• Twelve lasagna noodles: cooked according to package instructions for the perfect texture to roll
• Two cups shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully topping the dish
• Olive oil: to sauté the meat and aromatics adding a fruity richness
• One pound ground beef: the hearty base of the sauce choose fresh and lean for best flavor
• One large chopped onion: adds sweetness and depth
• Five cloves minced garlic: brings a fragrant punch
• One teaspoon dried oregano: provides a classic Italian herb aroma
• One teaspoon dried basil: for a sweet and slightly peppery note
• Quarter teaspoon salt and pepper: to season the sauce to taste adjusting as needed
• One can diced tomatoes: offering texture and a fresh burst of tomato flavor
• One can tomato sauce: gives the dish a smooth rich background
• Ten ounces frozen spinach: thawed and squeezed dry to avoid watery filling
• Two cups ricotta cheese: makes the filling creamy and lush opt for whole milk ricotta if possible
• One and a half cups shredded mozzarella cheese: for the filling melty and gooey when baked

Instructions

Cook noodles:

Cook lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente following package instructions. Drain carefully and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or sheet pan to dry. This prevents sticking and helps them roll easily later.

Make sauce:

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat until shimmering. Add ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat loses its pink color about five minutes. Add chopped onion minced garlic oregano basil salt and pepper. Stir and cook until the onion is translucent and softened roughly another five minutes. Stir in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 30 minutes stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and develop.

Prepare spinach and cheese filling:

In a medium bowl combine the thawed and well drained spinach with ricotta cheese and shredded mozzarella. Stir until evenly mixed. This filling adds a creamy and slightly tangy component that complements the meat sauce perfectly.

Preheat oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to get it ready for baking.

Assemble lasagna rollups:

Pour a couple of ladles of meat sauce onto the bottom of your baking dish and spread evenly. Prepare your work surface by laying out the dried noodles. On each noodle spread two to three tablespoons of the spinach cheese mixture making sure to distribute it evenly among all the noodles. Add one or two tablespoons of the meat sauce mixture on top of the cheese filling. Roll each noodle tightly starting from one end and place them seam side down in the baking dish over the sauce. Repeat this process until all noodles are rolled and arranged neatly in the dish.

Top and bake:

Spoon the remaining meat sauce evenly over the arranged rollups. Sprinkle the two cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top for a golden melty crust. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes to brown the cheese on top.

Serve:

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like. Serve warm for that perfect comforting meal.

My fondest memory with this dish is how my picky eater nephew decided to try the spinach filling and ended up loving it which was a huge win for me as the cook.

Storage tips

Leftover rollups can be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container or covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Place in the refrigerator and enjoy within three to five days. You can also freeze individual rollups by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months.

Ingredient substitutions

Ground turkey or Italian sausage can replace ground beef for a different flavor profile. If you want a vegetarian option swap the meat for sautéed mushrooms or lentils. Use fresh spinach instead of frozen but be sure to cook and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture.

Serving suggestions

Pair these rollups with a crisp mixed green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a light bruschetta works well as a side too. A glass of robust red wine can elevate the dinner for special occasions.

Serve warm and enjoy with a side salad or garlic bread. Leftovers reheat well and can be frozen for quick meals later.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ Can I freeze the roll-ups?

Yes, freeze assembled roll-ups before baking. Wrap tightly and thaw in refrigerator overnight before cooking.

→ What type of cheese works best for filling?

Ricotta provides creaminess, spinach adds freshness, and shredded mozzarella melts well to bind the mixture.

→ How long should I cook the meat sauce?

Simmer the meat sauce for 30 minutes to develop rich, well-blended flavors and tender beef.

→ Is it necessary to boil noodles beforehand?

Yes, cooking noodles until al dente ensures they soften properly when baked rolled up.

→ Can I add vegetables to the sauce?

Certainly, finely chopped onions and garlic are included, and adding bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance flavor and texture.