Introduction
Lasagna rolls are a delightful twist on the classic lasagna dish, offering all the rich flavors and comforting textures in a convenient, individual format. This recipe combines layers of savory ground beef, sausage, and creamy ricotta cheese, all wrapped in tender lasagna noodles. Topped with gooey mozzarella and a flavorful sauce, these rolls are not only easy to prepare but also perfect for serving a crowd or enjoying as leftovers.
Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a potluck, or simply craving a hearty meal, lasagna rolls are sure to impress. The combination of ingredients allows for customization, making it easy to accommodate various tastes and dietary preferences. Serve them alongside garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal that brings warmth and joy to the table. Enjoy the process of creating this delicious dish, and savor every bite!
Ingredients
- Lasagna Noodles: 10
- Ground Beef: 1 lb
- Sausage: 1 roll
- Onion: 1 medium, diced
- Ricotta Cheese: 3/4 container
- Shredded Mozzarella: 1 big bag
- Sauce: 2 cans
- Seasoning: To taste (suggestions: salt, pepper, Italian seasoning)
- Garlic Bread: For serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Cook down the diced onions in a skillet until translucent.
- Add the ground beef and sausage to the skillet, browning them together. Drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, mix the cooked meat and onion with ricotta cheese. Add seasoning to taste.
- Cook the Noodles:
- Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
- Lay them out flat on a clean surface.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Spread a layer of the ricotta and meat mixture on each noodle, adding some shredded mozzarella on top.
- Roll the noodles carefully (not too tight!) and set aside.
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Coat the bottom of a baking pan with sauce to prevent sticking.
- Place the rolled noodles in the pan.
- Add Sauce and Cheese:
- Cover the rolls with the remaining sauce and sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve:
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with garlic bread on the side!
Tips
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
- You can substitute the meat with a vegetarian option if desired.
Method for Storing Lasagna Rolls
Proper storage of lasagna rolls ensures they remain fresh and delicious for future meals. Here’s how to store them effectively:
Short-Term Storage (Refrigeration)
- Cool Down: Allow the baked lasagna rolls to cool to room temperature.
- Cover: Place the rolls in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Long-Term Storage (Freezing)
- Cool Down: Allow the lasagna rolls to cool completely.
- Individual Portions: For easier reheating, consider freezing the rolls individually. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Container: Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Label with the date.
- Freeze: Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating
- From Refrigerator: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolls in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- From Freezer: For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes. If cooking from frozen, increase the baking time to about 30-40 minutes.
Tips
- Avoid Freezing with Sauce: If possible, freeze the rolls without sauce to prevent sogginess. You can add sauce when reheating.
- Check for Quality: Always check for any signs of freezer burn or spoilage before consuming stored rolls.