Lasagna Roll Ups with Cottage Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, family-friendly Italian meal that’s both fun to make and absolutely delicious, you’re going to love these Lasagna Roll Ups with Cottage Cheese. Imagine tender lasagna noodles rolled up with a creamy three-cheese filling, savory meat and spinach, all nestled beneath a rich, homemade marinara sauce. They’re like traditional lasagna reimagined in a more manageable, elegant form that’s perfect for dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want a heartwarming dish that’s sure to bring smiles to the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Putting together Lasagna Roll Ups with Cottage Cheese is surprisingly straightforward, and all the ingredients combine to create layers of vibrant flavors and textures. From the robust fire-roasted tomatoes that brighten the sauce to the creamy cottage cheese that adds a subtle tang, each component plays an important role in making this dish so special.

• Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté onions and garlic to build the sauce’s flavor base.
• Onion and garlic: Essential aromatics that bring depth and a gentle sweetness.
• Fire-roasted crushed and diced tomatoes: Provide a smoky, vibrant tomato flavor.
• Tomato paste: Intensifies the sauce with concentrated tomato richness.
• Lower sodium chicken broth: Adds moisture and balances acidity in the marinara sauce.
• Granulated sugar: Just a pinch to mellow out the natural acidity of the tomatoes.
• Dried Italian seasoning and basil: Classic herbs that infuse the sauce with savory notes.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Season to taste for perfect balance.
• Cottage cheese (2% recommended): The creamy, slightly tangy heart of the cheese filling.
• Shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese: Offers gooey meltiness and a nutty sharpness.
• Large egg: Binds the cheese mixture together for easy rolling.
• Ground beef (not too lean) or ground sausage: Adds a hearty, savory bite with juicy texture.
• Baby spinach: Brings a fresh, vibrant touch and a nutrient boost.
• Lasagna noodles: The perfect canvas for all these incredible fillings and flavors.

How to Make Lasagna Roll Ups with Cottage Cheese

Step 1: Make the Marinara Sauce

Start by sautéing diced onions in olive oil until soft and translucent, then add garlic and your Italian seasonings for a fragrant base. Next, stir in the fire-roasted crushed and diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, and a touch of sugar. Let it simmer gently for about 20 to 25 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and deepens in flavor. This homemade marinara is where so much magic in this dish happens, and you’ll love how vibrant it tastes compared to store-bought versions.

Step 2: Boil the Lasagna Noodles

While your sauce simmers, bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Cook your lasagna noodles until they are al dente, just tender enough to roll without cracking. Once cooked, drain them carefully and lay them flat on a clean dish towel—this simple step stops them from sticking together and makes assembly a breeze.

Step 3: Cook the Meat Mixture

In a hot skillet, warm olive oil and sauté chopped onion until soft, then add in the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook thoroughly, seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Stir in the baby spinach last and cook just until wilted. This savory, rich meat filling complements the creamy cheeses beautifully, creating a wonderful balance of flavors.

Step 4: Combine the Three-Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, mix together the cottage cheese, shredded mozzarella, parmesan, and the egg, seasoning with a bit of salt and pepper. This blend makes a creamy yet sturdy cheese filling that holds up perfectly inside each roll up, offering that delightful cheesy pull everyone loves.

Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna Roll Ups with Cottage Cheese

Lay out all the cooked noodles and evenly divide the cheese mixture across each one. Next, spread the meat and spinach mixture on top of the cheese. Carefully roll up each noodle tightly but gently, keeping all the delicious filling inside. If any filling escapes, simply spoon it into the casserole dish—it all belongs in this dish!

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Spread about 3/4 cup of your marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 casserole dish. Arrange the lasagna roll ups seam side down on the sauce to prevent unrolling during baking. Pour the remaining marinara over the top and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. This blanket of sauce and cheese seals in the flavors and creates a bubbly, golden topping as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake the Roll Ups

Pop your casserole into a preheated 350°F oven for about 35 to 40 minutes. Bake uncovered until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is beautifully melted and slightly golden. If you notice the cheese browning too fast, tent the dish with foil to prevent burning while the filling heats through.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, these Lasagna Roll Ups with Cottage Cheese are ready to dazzle your dinner guests or family. Each roll is a perfect combination of creamy, savory, and tangy, making every bite a joyful experience.

How to Serve Lasagna Roll Ups with Cottage Cheese

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add a lovely pop of color and freshness on top just before serving. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add an exciting finishing touch if you want to crank up the flavor just a bit.

Side Dishes

These roll ups are hearty on their own but pair wonderfully with crisp green salads, garlic bread, or a simple roasted vegetable medley. A light Caesar salad or steamed broccoli dressed with lemon and olive oil cuts through the richness and keeps the meal balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve each roll up individually on a plate with a small ladle of extra marinara sauce on the side. You can also portion them into individual ramekins or mini casserole dishes for personalized servings at parties or family dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Lasagna Roll Ups with Cottage Cheese can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. They taste fantastic the next day as the flavors continue to meld, making them perfect for quick weeknight lunches or dinners.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish either before or after baking. Wrap the assembled roll ups tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or use a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, usually around 20 to 25 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual servings on medium power to avoid drying out. Adding a splash of water to the dish before reheating helps keep the sauce moist and luscious.

FAQs

Can I substitute the cottage cheese with ricotta?

Yes, ricotta can be a good substitute if you prefer its creamier texture, but cottage cheese adds a uniquely light and tangy flavor that makes these roll ups special.

Do I have to use ground beef or can I use sausage?

Ground sausage, either sweet or spicy, is a fantastic alternative and adds a different dimension of flavor. Feel free to mix or choose whichever you prefer.

Can I prepare these roll ups completely in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the roll ups a day ahead, cover the casserole, and refrigerate. Bake when you’re ready for dinner for minimal prep on your busiest nights.

What type of cheese works best for the filling?

The combination of cottage cheese, mozzarella, and parmesan gives the perfect balance of creaminess, meltiness, and sharpness. Skipping any one of them will change the texture and flavor profile.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply leave out the meat and add extra spinach or sautéed mushrooms to keep the filling hearty and flavorful while maintaining the deliciousness of the dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about diving into these Lasagna Roll Ups with Cottage Cheese. They are a delightful twist on traditional lasagna that feels both comforting and fresh. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a special meal, these roll ups are sure to become one of your new go-to recipes. Give them a try and enjoy every creamy, saucy, satisfying bite!

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