Cheesy Beef and Spinach Lasagna Rolls

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Cheesy Beef and Spinach Lasagna Rolls – Hearty, Cheesy & Perfectly Rolled

These lasagna rolls are filled with savory beef, fresh spinach, creamy ricotta, and Parmesan—topped with marinara and melty mozzarella for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal.

Introduction: A Classic Reimagined

Lasagna is a beloved comfort food, but rolling it up makes it even more fun to serve and eat. These Cheesy Beef and Spinach Lasagna Rolls deliver all the flavor of traditional lasagna in a tidy, elegant format. Each roll is packed with a rich, cheesy filling and baked in marinara sauce until bubbly and golden.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, prepping a freezer-friendly meal, or hosting a casual gathering, this dish is a guaranteed hit.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these rolls so irresistible:

For the Filling:

  • Ground beef (1 lb / 450g)
    Hearty and flavorful—use lean beef for less grease.
  • Fresh spinach (2 cups / 60g, chopped)
    Adds color, nutrients, and freshness.
  • Ricotta cheese (1 cup / 250g)
    Creamy and mild—binds the filling beautifully.
  • Parmesan cheese (½ cup / 50g, grated)
    Adds salty, nutty depth.
  • Egg (1 large)
    Helps hold the filling together.
  • Italian seasoning (1 tsp)
    A blend of herbs for classic flavor.
  • Salt & black pepper
    Essential for balance and seasoning.

For the Sauce:

  • Marinara sauce (2 cups / 480ml)
    Rich and tangy—use homemade or store-bought.
  • Garlic powder (½ tsp)
    Adds savory warmth.
  • Red pepper flakes (¼ tsp, optional)
    For a subtle kick.

For Assembly:

  • Lasagna noodles (12, cooked al dente)
    Sturdy and flexible—perfect for rolling.
  • Mozzarella cheese (2 cups / 200g, shredded)
    Melts into gooey perfection.
  • Fresh parsley or basil (optional)
    Adds color and freshness for garnish.

Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Mixing bowls
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Spatula
  • Foil
  • Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Spinach

In a large skillet over medium heat:

  • Brown 1 lb ground beef, breaking it into crumbles.

Drain excess fat.

Add 2 cups chopped spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes, until wilted.

Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, mix:

  • Cooked beef and spinach
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In a saucepan over low heat:

  • Warm 2 cups marinara sauce

Stir in:

  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Simmer gently while assembling rolls.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna Rolls

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Spread ½ cup marinara sauce on the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Lay out 12 cooked lasagna noodles.

Spread 2–3 tbsp filling evenly over each noodle.

Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the dish.

Step 5: Top with Sauce and Cheese

Pour remaining marinara sauce over the rolls.

Sprinkle 2 cups shredded mozzarella evenly on top.

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until:

  • Cheese is melted
  • Sauce is bubbling

Step 6: Serve

Let cool for 5 minutes.

Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.

Serve hot with:

  • Garlic bread
  • Caesar salad
  • A glass of red wine or sparkling water

Yields:

  • 6 servings (2 rolls each)

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Family dinners
  • Meal prep
  • Casual entertaining
  • Cozy date nights

Pair with:

  • Roasted vegetables
  • Antipasto platter
  • Tiramisu or cannoli for dessert

Presentation Tip: Serve rolls in individual ramekins or on a platter with extra sauce and herbs.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Four-Cheese Rolls

Add shredded provolone and fontina to the filling.

Spicy Sausage

Swap ground beef for Italian sausage.

Veggie Delight

Use mushrooms, zucchini, or kale instead of beef.

Meatless Version

Use lentils or plant-based crumbles.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble rolls and refrigerate up to 1 day before baking.
  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze baked or unbaked rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in oven.

Tip: Reheat covered at 350°F for 20 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 6)

  • Calories: ~420
  • Protein: ~28g
  • Carbohydrates: ~24g
  • Fat: ~22g
  • Sugar: ~4g
  • Sodium: ~580mg
  • Fiber: ~2g

These rolls are:

  • Hearty and cheesy
  • Savory and satisfying
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Beef and Spinach Lasagna Rolls are more than just a pasta dish—they’re a celebration of comfort, flavor, and family-style cooking. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, they’re guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

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