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### Instructions:
#### 1. **Cook the Lasagna Noodles**:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Once cooked, drain them and lay them flat on a baking sheet or piece of parchment paper to keep them from sticking.
#### 2. **Cook the Meat**:
While the noodles cook, heat a little olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Once the meat is cooked through, drain any excess fat and set the mixture aside.
#### 3. **Prepare the Cheese Filling**:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, fresh basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
#### 4. **Assemble the Lasagna Rolls**:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Take each lasagna noodle and lay it flat. Spread a spoonful of the ricotta cheese mixture on each noodle. Add a few spoonfuls of the cooked meat mixture and spread evenly. Carefully roll up each noodle tightly into a roll and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
#### 5. **Top with Sauce and Cheese**:
Once all the lasagna rolls are in the baking dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the rolls, covering them evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
#### 6. **Final Touches**:
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Once done, remove from the oven and let the lasagna rolls sit for a few minutes before serving.
#### 7. **Serve and Enjoy**:
Garnish with extra fresh basil or parsley, and serve with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness of these perfectly rolled-up portions!
### Why Lasagna Rolls Are Perfect for Any Occasion:
#### 1. **Great for Family Dinners**:
Lasagna rolls are perfect for family dinners, especially if you want each person to have their own serving. They’re easy to dish out and are less messy than traditional lasagna, which means everyone can enjoy their own portion without the hassle of slicing.
#### 2. **Ideal for Potlucks and Parties**:
Lasagna rolls are the perfect dish to bring to a potluck or serve at a party. They’re easy to serve, fun to eat, and offer all the flavors of lasagna in a neat, individual package. Everyone will love them!
#### 3. **Freezer-Friendly**:
Lasagna rolls are perfect for make-ahead meals. You can prepare them, freeze them, and bake them later for a quick and delicious dinner. This makes them a great option for busy weeks when you need a meal ready in no time.
#### 4. **Customizable for Everyone**:
The best part about lasagna rolls is how customizable they are. You can easily adjust the filling to suit different tastes. Want a vegetarian version? Simply swap the meat for sautéed spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. Looking for something spicy? Add some red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the sauce. The possibilities are endless!
### Tips for the Best Lasagna Rolls:
– **Don’t Overstuff the Rolls**: When spreading the ricotta mixture and meat filling, be sure not to overstuff the noodles. A little goes a long way, and overstuffing can cause the rolls to fall apart.
– **Use a Cast-Iron Skillet**: If you have one, try cooking the meat mixture in a cast-iron skillet. It helps to get a nice even cook and adds a bit of rustic charm when serving.
– **Add More Veggies**: Add some extra vegetables to your rolls by mixing spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the ricotta filling or sautéing them with the meat. It’s an easy way to add more nutrition to your meal.
– **Top with Extra Cheese**: If you love cheese, don’t be shy! Sprinkle some extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top before baking to get that golden, cheesy finish.
### Conclusion:
Lasagna rolls are a fun and delicious twist on a classic comfort food. With their individual portions, easy-to-make ingredients, and endless customization options, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight family dinner, meal prep for the week, or something to bring to a party, lasagna rolls are a dish everyone will love. Give them a try, and you’ll quickly see why they’re becoming a new favorite in many households!
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