Here’s an even more detailed step-by-step recipe for your lasagna rolls, including some extra tips for each part of the process. This breakdown will help make sure everything turns out perfect!
Lasagna Rolls Recipe (Detailed Version)
Ingredients
- 10 lasagna noodles (regular or whole wheat)
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean for best flavor and texture)
- 1 roll Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3/4 container ricotta cheese (about 12 oz or 1 1/2 cups)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided; feel free to add more if you love cheesy lasagna!)
- 2 cans pasta sauce (about 24 oz each; marinara or traditional tomato sauce works well)
- Seasonings: 1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, salt, and pepper (adjust to taste)
- Optional garnishes: Fresh basil or parsley, grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add lasagna noodles and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until they’re al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
- Drain noodles and immediately lay them out flat on parchment paper or a greased baking sheet. This keeps them from sticking together while you prepare the filling.
- Cook the Meat Mixture
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small drizzle of olive oil.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add the ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet. Use a spatula to break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks.
- Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder for a rich, flavorful base. Continue cooking until the meat is fully browned, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet and let the meat mixture cool slightly.
- Prepare the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled meat mixture, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, and an additional pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Taste the filling and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more Italian seasoning, salt, or pepper if desired.
- Assemble the Rolls
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Spread a thin layer of pasta sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Place a lasagna noodle flat on a clean work surface. Spread about 2-3 tablespoons of the ricotta-meat filling evenly over the noodle, leaving a small border along the edges. Sprinkle a little extra mozzarella on top if you want added cheesiness.
- Gently roll up the noodle from one end to the other, not too tightly to avoid squeezing out the filling. Place the roll seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Repeat with remaining noodles, filling, and rolling each one.
- Add Sauce and Cheese
- Once all the rolls are in the baking dish, pour the remaining pasta sauce evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella generously over the lasagna rolls. You can also add a little grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy topping.
- Bake
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Covering the dish ensures the rolls stay moist while baking.
- After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly bubbly.
- For a golden, slightly crispy cheese topping, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Serve
- Let the lasagna rolls sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps the rolls hold their shape when plated.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if desired.
- Serve with garlic bread, a side salad, or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Extra Tips:
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the rolls and cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Add Veggies: You can easily customize the filling by adding cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or diced bell peppers.
- Ricotta Tip: For an even creamier filling, consider mixing in an egg with the ricotta cheese, which helps it set nicely when baked.
- Sauce Variation: Experiment with different sauces, like a creamy Alfredo or a spicy Arrabbiata, to switch things up.
Enjoy your delicious lasagna rolls! This dish is sure to be a family favorite.