Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups

the Looking for a delicious and comforting dinner idea that’s easy to make and loved by everyone? Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups are the answer! This dish combines the rich flavors of homemade Bolognese sauce with a creamy cheese filling, all rolled up in tender pasta sheets and baked to perfection.

With its hearty layers of ground beef, mozzarella, and Parmesan, this recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prepping for the week. The Bolognese sauce can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for busy nights. If you’re looking for a classic Bolognese sauce to use in this recipe.

Not only are these roll-ups easy to prepare, but they’re also a great make-ahead meal. You can even freeze them before baking!

Ingredients for Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups

For the Bolognese Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ cup red wine (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

The Cheesy Filling:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• 1 egg, beaten
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

For the Roll-Ups:

• 8 cooked lasagna noodles or pasta sheets
• Extra mozzarella for topping

How to Make the Bolognese Sauce

The Bolognese sauce is the backbone of this dish. Here’s how to create a rich, flavorful sauce that elevates your roll-ups:

1. Brown the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, add the oregano, basil, and red wine (if using), and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook on low for 20-30 minutes to deepen the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Preparing the Cheesy Filling

The cheesy filling is what makes these Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups so creamy and delicious.

1. Combine the Cheeses: In a bowl, mix the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and the beaten egg. Stir until smooth.
2. Optional Herbs: If desired, you can mix in some chopped fresh parsley or basil to give the filling an extra burst of flavor.
3. Check the Consistency: Make sure the mixture is creamy but thick enough to spread on the pasta without running off.

   

Assembling and Baking the Roll-Ups

Once your sauce and cheese mixture are ready, it’s time to assemble the roll-ups!

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Layer the Sauce and Cheese: Spread a thin layer of the Bolognese sauce over each cooked lasagna noodle. Top it with a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture.
3. Roll It Up: Carefully roll each noodle from one end to the other. Place the roll-ups seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
4. Add More Cheese: Spoon the remaining Bolognese sauce over the roll-ups and sprinkle extra mozzarella on top for that perfect cheesy crust.

Baking the Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups

Bake your Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Once done, allow the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Serving Suggestions

These delicious Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups pair perfectly with:

• A simple green salad
• Garlic bread or breadsticks
• Roasted vegetables
• A light red wine or sparkling water

FAQs About Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups

Can I make Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them.

Can I freeze Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups?
Absolutely! Prepare the roll-ups, then freeze them before baking. When ready to eat, simply bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the bake time.

What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Mozzarella and ricotta are traditional, but you can experiment with cheeses like cheddar or provolone for extra flavor.

Can I substitute the meat in the Bolognese sauce?
Yes! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a healthier or vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Bolognese Roll-Ups are a comforting and versatile dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight meal or a family gathering, they are sure to impress!

Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe by adding ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or using gluten-free pasta for a different twist. Enjoy these cheesy, saucy delights today!