Craving a comforting dinner tonight? Cheesy lasagna rolls are the answer! This easy and flavorful dish combines tender pasta, creamy cheese, and rich marinara sauce to create a meal your family will love. In this post, I’ll guide you step-by-step through making these delightful rolls, offering tips, variations, and storage advice to ensure success. Let’s dive into the cheesy goodness of lasagna rolls that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food: Cheesy lasagna rolls provide the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence, making them a go-to dish for family gatherings.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to create a delicious meal with minimal fuss.
- Great for Leftovers: The lasagna rolls taste even better the next day, making them ideal for meal prep and easy lunches.
- Customizable: You can easily modify the filling or sauce to suit your taste, whether you prefer adding veggies or different types of cheese.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 egg
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cheesy lasagna rolls start with lasagna noodles. I prefer using 12 noodles for four servings. Cook them according to the package directions. You want them al dente for the best texture.
Next, I mix the cheese filling. For this, I use ricotta cheese, one egg, mozzarella, and Parmesan. This mix gives a creamy and rich taste. I add garlic powder and Italian seasoning for flavor. This blend makes the rolls truly special.
Seasoning and Garnish
– Salt and pepper
– Fresh basil (optional)
I always add salt and pepper to taste. This simple step makes a big difference. If you want a fresh touch, consider adding basil as a garnish. It adds color and a burst of flavor that enhances the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will help cook the rolls evenly. While the oven heats, cook the lasagna noodles. Follow the package directions until they are al dente. Drain them well and set them aside.
Next, grab a mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese. Add the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and some salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it is smooth and well blended. This cheese mixture brings flavor and creaminess to your rolls.
Assembly
Now it’s time to fill and roll the lasagna noodles. Take a noodle and spoon a generous amount of the cheese mixture onto it. Spread it evenly, covering most of the noodle. This step is key for flavor.
Carefully roll the noodle up from one end to the other. Place each roll seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat until all the noodles are filled and rolled.
Once all the rolls are in the dish, pour half of the marinara sauce over them. Make sure they are well coated. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Finally, pour the rest of the marinara sauce over the cheese. This adds a nice layer of flavor.
Baking
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This will help the rolls cook through. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil. This lets the cheese get bubbly and golden. Bake for another 15 minutes, or until you see that delicious golden color.
After baking, allow the dish to cool for 5 minutes. If you want, you can garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your cheesy lasagna rolls!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Cheese Mixture
To make a great cheese mixture, start with the ricotta cheese. It should be creamy but not too runny. Mix in the egg to help it bind. Add garlic powder and Italian seasoning for extra flavor. You can also use fresh herbs like basil or parsley if you have them. This will bring freshness to your dish.
Cooking and Baking Tips
Cook the lasagna noodles just until al dente. This means they should still have a little bite to them. If they are too soft, they will fall apart. When baking, cover your dish with foil first. This helps heat the cheese evenly. Remove the foil to let the cheese brown nicely at the end.
Presentation Tips
Garnish your cheesy lasagna rolls with fresh basil for a pop of color. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan on top before serving. Serve them with a side salad or garlic bread. This adds balance to the meal and makes it feel special. Enjoy your beautiful dish!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh basil and high-quality cheeses for a richer flavor in your lasagna rolls.
- Don’t Overcook Noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles just until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven and absorb sauce.
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to add cooked spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables to the cheese mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Let it Rest: Allow the lasagna rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving; this helps the filling set and makes them easier to slice.
Variations
Different Cheese Options
You can use many types of cheese in cheesy lasagna rolls. The classic choice is ricotta, but why stop there? You can mix in cottage cheese for a lighter option. Cream cheese adds a rich and smooth texture. Each cheese brings a unique taste and feel to the rolls.
If you follow a vegan diet, you still have great choices. Vegan ricotta made from nuts or tofu works well. You can also find vegan mozzarella at many stores. These options let everyone enjoy this dish.
Sauce Variations
When it comes to sauce, you have two main paths: marinara or Alfredo. Marinara gives a classic Italian flavor. It’s tomato-based and pairs well with cheese. Alfredo, on the other hand, is creamy and rich. This sauce can make your rolls feel extra indulgent.
You can also decide between homemade or store-bought sauces. Making your own sauce can be fun and lets you control the flavors. If you’re short on time, a good quality store-bought sauce works just fine.
Add-ins and Enhancements
To make your cheesy lasagna rolls even better, try adding veggies. Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini all fit well. They bring color and nutrition to the dish. You can also add cooked ground beef or sausage for a heartier meal.
If you like spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or jalapeños. These can give your rolls a kick that many will love. Just a little heat can elevate the flavors and make your meal memorable.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
After enjoying your cheesy lasagna rolls, store any leftovers in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. They will last about three to five days.
When you are ready to reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the rolls with foil to keep them moist. Bake for about 20 minutes. You can also use the microwave. Heat them on a plate for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.
Freezing
You can also freeze cheesy lasagna rolls if you want to save some for later. First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
When you are ready to eat them, take the rolls out of the freezer. Thaw them in the fridge overnight. To reheat, follow the same steps as when you refrigerate. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil. Enjoy your delicious meal anytime!
FAQs
How long do cheesy lasagna rolls last in the fridge?
Cheesy lasagna rolls can last up to four days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container for best results. If they sit longer, the noodles may become too soft. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.
Can I make cheesy lasagna rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can make cheesy lasagna rolls ahead of time. Prepare the rolls and place them in a baking dish with marinara sauce. Cover tightly and store them in the fridge. You can bake them the next day. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold.
What can I serve with cheesy lasagna rolls?
Cheesy lasagna rolls pair well with many side dishes. Here are some great options:
– Garlic bread
– Caesar salad
– Steamed broccoli
– Roasted vegetables
– A light garden salad
These sides add freshness and balance to the rich flavors of the rolls. Enjoy experimenting with your favorites!
Cheesy lasagna rolls are simple and tasty. We covered the main ingredients, preparation, and baking steps. Perfect your cheese mix and keep the noodles from overcooking for the best dish. Feel free to explore variations with different cheeses and sauces. Lastly, remember how to store your leftovers for later enjoyment. Enjoy your delicious creation, and share it with family and friend
