Freezer Friendly Lasagna Rolls

Instructions

1. 01

   Boil lasagna noodles in a large pot of salted water according to package directions to reach al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking of the noodles. Lay on a baking sheet flat until ready to use.

2. 02

   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium high heat, and add in the onions and mushrooms. Saute for about 6-7 minutes, or until the onions have softened and started to brown slightly. Add in the garlic and saute until it starts to become fragrant (about 1 minute). Remove the vegetables from the pan and set aside momentarily.

3. 03

   In the same skillet add in the ground beef and brown. Season with salt and pepper. Drain away excess fat.

4. 04

   To the ground beef, add in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and remaining salt and pepper. Add in the vegetables that were set aside. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer for 20-30 minutes.

5. 05

   While the filling bubbles, in a separate large bowl, mix together the remaining filling of ricotta, half of the shredded cheese, egg, parsley and basil pesto. *see note*

6. 06

   To assemble, add in a large scoop of meat filing to the bottom of the aluminum pan. Spread 2-3 tablespoons of ricotta on each lasagna noodle. starting at one end, roll up each noodle. Place into pan, about 4-5 per loaf pan. You can also place these in one 8×8″ square aluminum baking pan if you only want one dish.

7. 07

   Repeat with all remaining noodles and ricotta. Top with remaining meat sauce. Sprinkle with remaining shredded cheese.

8. 08

   To freeze, cover pan with plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil.

9. 09

   OR – you can bake right away.

10. 10

    To Bake From FROZEN – Preheat oven to 350 degrees. REMOVE PLASTIC WRAP, and then replace foil on top. Bake on a baking sheet covered for 90 minutes, then remove the foil and bake another 30-40 minutes, or until the lasagna is hot and bubbling.

11. 11

    To Bake from THAWED – Thaw the pans in the fridge for 24-48 hours, or until completely thawed. Bake at 375 degrees for 20-30 minutes or until bubbling and the internal temperature reaches 165.