Lasagna Roll Ups

Lasagna Roll Ups are everything you love about the classic dish, but rolled up into individual servings! Rich marinara sauce, cheese, and Italian sausage rolled into tender lasagna noodles.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24-ounce) jar of your favorite marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bechamel Sauce (Optional):

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• Salt and nutmeg to taste

Instructions:

For the Filling:

1. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set them aside.
2. If you're using ground beef or sausage, brown it in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and cook until the meat is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess grease.
3. Add the marinara sauce to the skillet and simmer the sauce for a few minutes.
4. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, fresh basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Lay out the cooked lasagna noodles on a clean surface and spread a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture over each noodle.
6. Roll up the lasagna noodles and place them seam side down in a baking dish.
7. Pour the meat sauce over the top of the roll-ups, and then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over them.

For the Bechamel Sauce (Optional):

1. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for a couple of minutes, creating a roux.
3. Gradually add the milk while stirring constantly. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens and comes to a simmer.
4. Season the bechamel sauce with salt and a pinch of nutmeg.

Assembly and Baking:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pour the bechamel sauce (if using) evenly over the lasagna roll-ups.
3. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes.
4. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
5. Let the lasagna roll-ups cool for a few minutes before serving.