There is nothing quite like diving into a warm, comforting plate of Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups Recipe to lift your spirits and satisfy your cravings. This dish brings together tender pasta rolled around a rich, savory bolognese meat sauce, all wrapped in layers of gooey, melted cheese. It’s the perfect cozy meal that’s both indulgent and familiar, hitting every note from hearty and saucy to cheesy and golden-baked. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, these roll-ups are guaranteed to earn rave reviews and probably a few repeat requests!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem simple, but each plays a crucial role in creating the luscious textures and bold flavors in this Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups Recipe. From the savory ground beef to the melty mozzarella and the fragrant herbs, they come together perfectly for a balanced, irresistible main course.
- 12 lasagna noodles: The perfect base to hold all the delicious filling and roll up neatly for baking.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the meat and onions for deep flavor.
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage: Provides that hearty, savory core essential to classic bolognese.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds subtle sweetness and texture without overpowering the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a fragrant punch that complements the meat and tomato base beautifully.
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce or homemade tomato sauce: Creates the saucy, tangy foundation that ties the dish together.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a medley of herbs that elevate the flavor profile instantly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to balance and highlight all the ingredients.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creamy softness to the cheese filling for luscious texture.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Delivers that stretchy, gooey cheese factor everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty contrast that enriches the overall taste.
- 1 egg: Binds the cheese mixture together to keep everything perfectly cohesive.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil: Adds a fresh herbal brightness to finish the filling.
- Extra mozzarella and Parmesan for topping: Creates a bubbly, golden crust that makes this dish irresistible.
How to Make Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, cook the lasagna noodles in salted water until they are just al dente—tender but still firm to the bite. This ensures they won’t become mushy after baking. Drain the noodles carefully and lay them flat on parchment paper so they cool evenly and do not stick together.
Step 2: Make the Bolognese Sauce
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef or Italian sausage along with the finely chopped onion. Cook this mixture, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and the onions are soft, which takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to infuse the sauce with flavor. Pour in the marinara sauce and let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes to deepen the taste and thicken slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the egg. Add the freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of herbal freshness. Mix everything thoroughly until it’s well blended. This rich, cheesy filling will be what makes your roll-ups so irresistibly creamy inside.
Step 4: Assemble the Roll-Ups
Lay a cooled lasagna noodle flat and spread a spoonful of the cheese mixture over it, followed by a generous layer of the bolognese meat sauce. Starting from one end, roll the noodle up carefully but firmly. Place each roll-up seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to keep them intact during cooking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour any remaining meat sauce over the arranged roll-ups and sprinkle extra mozzarella and Parmesan on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. Let the roll-ups rest for about 5 minutes before serving to set and cool slightly, making them easier to enjoy.
How to Serve Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley on top brighten up the dish visually and add a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy roll-ups. A drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil adds a silky finish that further enhances the flavors. If you like a bit of heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can give an exciting kick.
Side Dishes
To complement these hearty Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups Recipe, serve with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity and crunch cut through the richness perfectly. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette also works wonderfully for scooping up any extra sauce left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting, consider serving the roll-ups on a large wooden board for a rustic, family-style feel. Pair with colorful roasted vegetables tossed with herbs to add vibrancy to your plate. You can also make mini versions of these roll-ups using wider noodles, perfect for appetizers or party bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When storing, keep them covered well to maintain moisture and prevent the pasta from drying out. Reheat gently to preserve the gooey cheese texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the fully assembled but unbaked roll-ups by wrapping the baking dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then storing it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results and then bake as directed, adding a bit more time if needed.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or thawed roll-ups in a baking dish covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Removing the foil in the last few minutes can help restore the bubbly, golden cheese top. Alternatively, microwave portions individually for a quick meal, though the texture is best when baked.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional bolognese uses ground beef or Italian sausage, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just adjust cooking times as needed to ensure your meat is fully cooked and flavorful.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply skip the meat and increase the amount of vegetables or add plant-based meat substitutes. Mushrooms, lentils, or finely chopped roasted vegetables make excellent hearty options that pair beautifully with the cheese filling.
How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together?
After boiling, drain the lasagna noodles and spread them out individually on parchment paper or a lightly oiled baking sheet to cool. This keeps them separated and ready for easy rolling without tearing or sticking.
Can I prepare these roll-ups ahead of time?
Definitely! Assemble your roll-ups, cover tightly, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great dish to prepare in advance for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
What’s the best cheese combination for the filling?
The mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan offers the perfect balance of creaminess, meltiness, and sharp flavor. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like fontina or provolone for a unique twist, but this trio is a tried-and-true favorite.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups Recipe, it’s hard not to fall completely in love with the comforting layers of rich meat sauce and melty cheese all wrapped in tender pasta. It’s a perfect meal for cozy nights or casual gatherings that will bring smiles around the table. Give it a go — this heartwarming dish is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen!
Print
Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (2 roll-ups each) 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian optional
Description
Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups are a comforting Italian-American main course featuring tender lasagna noodles rolled with a savory mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and hearty meat sauce. Baked until bubbly and golden, these roll-ups make a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 lasagna noodles
- Salt, for boiling water
Meat Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce or homemade tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
Topping
- Extra mozzarella cheese
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Cook Noodles: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles in salted boiling water until they are al dente. Drain the noodles and lay them flat on parchment paper to cool and prevent sticking.
- Prepare Meat Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the meat is browned and the onion is softened, about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour in the marinara sauce and allow it to simmer gently for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Make Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, the egg, and chopped fresh parsley or basil. Mix well to create a creamy and flavorful cheese filling.
- Assemble Roll-Ups: Spread a spoonful of the cheese mixture evenly onto each cooled lasagna noodle. Top the cheese layer with a generous spoonful of the meat sauce. Carefully roll up each noodle, sealing the filling inside, and place each roll seam-side down into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add Sauce and Cheese Topping: Pour any remaining meat sauce over the assembled roll-ups, then sprinkle extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top to create a deliciously cheesy crust.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the roll-ups to rest for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving. Enjoy warm as a hearty main dish.
Notes
- You can prepare the roll-ups ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking for convenience.
- Substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat products if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Serve these roll-ups with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete and balanced meal.
