Short Rib Lasagna Rolls

Short Rib Lasagna Rolls are a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender beef short ribs with creamy cheese and perfectly cooked lasagna noodles, all wrapped up in a delightful roll. This recipe is not just about layering ingredients; it’s about crafting a warm, hearty meal that gathers family and friends around the table. The savory aroma of slow-cooked beef mingling with rich marinara sauce will make your kitchen feel like a cozy Italian trattoria. It’s a dish worth making for any special occasion or family dinner because it’s simple yet spectacular. With a step-by-step guide, you’ll feel confident in your cooking as you bring this mouthwatering dish to life.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Short Rib Lasagna Rolls recipe is packed with benefits that make it a must-try in your kitchen. The easy prep means you won’t spend all day slaving over a hot stove, while its family-friendly appeal ensures everyone—from the pickiest eaters to the most adventurous—will delight in its flavors. The rich, meaty filling combined with gooey cheese is a traditional favorite that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table. Plus, you only need minimal ingredients to create a masterpiece that looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients for Short Rib Lasagna Rolls

2 lbs bone-in beef short ribs: The star of this dish, tender and flavorful.
2 tbsp olive oil: Adds richness and aids in browning the meat.
1 onion, diced: Provides a sweet aromatic base.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with robust flavor.
1 cup beef broth: Creates a savory liquid for braising.
1 cup crushed tomatoes: Adds natural sweetness and acidity.
1 tbsp tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor.
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Brings depth to the sauce.
1 tsp dried oregano: Offers a hint of earthy flavor.
1 tsp dried basil: Enhances the Italian essence of the dish.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained: The comforting wrap for our filling.
1 1⁄2 cups ricotta cheese: Creamy and delightful cheese that binds the filling.
1 1⁄2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded: Provides that gooey, melty topping.
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Add a nutty, salty flavor.
1 egg: Acts as a binding agent for the cheese mixture.
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For a hint of freshness.
2 cups marinara sauce: The perfect blanket for your lasagna rolls.
1 tbsp olive oil: For cooking the sauce.
1 tsp dried basil: To enhance the marinara sauce.

Step-by-Step Directions for Short Rib Lasagna Rolls

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper, browning them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This not only locks in flavor but also creates a wonderful crust.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. The aroma will be intoxicating!
Stir in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and basil. Bring it to a simmer, cover it, and cook on low heat for 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat is fall-apart tender.
Once the short ribs are tender, shred the meat and return it to the pot. Let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to thicken the sauce.
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and parsley (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy, creating a delightful cheese filling.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the cheese mixture onto each cooked lasagna noodle, sprinkle with some shredded beef, and roll them up tightly.
Place the rolled noodles seam side down in a greased baking dish. In a saucepan, heat marinara sauce with olive oil and dried basil, then pour it over the rolls. Finish with remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let the lasagna rolls cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley for an added touch of color and freshness.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Short Rib Lasagna Rolls, consider adding a touch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a spicy kick. If you’re looking to impress guests, you could even sprinkle fresh basil on top right before serving for a fragrant finish. A splash of fresh lemon juice in the cheese mixture can also brighten the flavors. To save on time, you can prepare the short rib filling a day ahead, allowing the flavors to develop even further.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These Short Rib Lasagna Rolls are best served warm with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce. A crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette complements the rich flavors perfectly. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, serve with a glass of sparkling water infused with fresh lemon or an elderflower spritz.

Nutritional Information

While indulging in these delicious Short Rib Lasagna Rolls, it’s essential to be mindful of portion sizes as they can be rich. A serving typically contains around 500-600 calories, including protein from the beef and cheese, alongside carbohydrates from the noodles. For a lighter option, consider using whole grain lasagna noodles or low-fat cheese variants.

Storing Tips & Variations for Short Rib Lasagna Rolls

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to three months—just ensure they’re fully cooled before placing them in the freezer. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth to keep them moist. For a healthier twist, substitute the short ribs with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. You can even experiment with different cheese fillings like goat cheese or feta for a unique touch.

Conclusion for Short Rib Lasagna Rolls

With their deep flavors and heartwarming comfort, Short Rib Lasagna Rolls are an irresistible dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your table. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe promises to deliver a satisfying and memorable meal. Don’t wait to try this delightful dish; gather your ingredients today and experience the joy of cooking and sharing something special.

FAQs

Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Absolutely! The filling can be made a day ahead for deeper flavors. Just refrigerate it until you’re ready to assemble the rolls.
What can I use instead of short ribs?
You can substitute shredded rotisserie chicken or even a medley of sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option.
How do I avoid soggy lasagna rolls?
Ensure the lasagna noodles are cooked al dente, and allow the filled rolls to cool slightly before baking. Also, avoid over-saturating them with sauce.
Can these rolls be frozen?
Yes! They freeze beautifully. Just make sure to cool them completely before wrapping and storing in airtight containers.
What’s a good side dish to serve with the rolls?
A Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad with lemon dressing pairs wonderfully with the richness of the lasagna rolls.

Short Rib Lasagna Rolls

Delicious and comforting rolls filled with tender beef short ribs, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked lasagna noodles, all enveloped in rich marinara sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 3 15

Total Time 3 45

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients

Short Rib Filling

2 lbs bone-in beef short ribs The star of this dish, tender and flavorful.
2 tbsp olive oil Adds richness and aids in browning the meat.
1 medium onion, diced Provides a sweet aromatic base.
4 cloves garlic, minced Infuses the dish with robust flavor.
1 cup beef broth Creates a savory liquid for braising.
1 cup crushed tomatoes Adds natural sweetness and acidity.
1 tbsp tomato paste Intensifies the tomato flavor.
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Brings depth to the sauce.
1 tsp dried oregano Offers a hint of earthy flavor.
1 tsp dried basil Enhances the Italian essence of the dish.

Lasagna Components

12 pieces lasagna noodles, cooked and drained The comforting wrap for our filling.
1.5 cups ricotta cheese Creamy and delightful cheese that binds the filling.
1.5 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded Provides that gooey, melty topping.
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Add a nutty, salty flavor.
1 large egg Acts as a binding agent for the cheese mixture.
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional) For a hint of freshness.
2 cups marinara sauce The perfect blanket for your lasagna rolls.
1 tbsp olive oil For cooking the sauce.
1 tsp dried basil To enhance the marinara sauce.

Instructions

Preparation

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper, browning them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
Stir in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer, cover it, and cook on low heat for 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat is fall-apart tender.
Once the short ribs are tender, shred the meat and return it to the pot. Let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to thicken the sauce.

Assembly

In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and parsley (if using). Mix until smooth and creamy.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the cheese mixture onto each cooked lasagna noodle, sprinkle with some shredded beef, and roll them up tightly.
Place the rolled noodles seam side down in a greased baking dish. In a saucepan, heat marinara sauce with olive oil and dried basil, then pour it over the rolls. Finish with remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let the lasagna rolls cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley for an added touch of color and freshness.