Tender Braised Short Rib Lasagna Rolls with Gooey Mozzarella

Transform humble lasagna into an elegant, gourmet experience with these tender short rib lasagna rolls. This dish combines the deep, savory flavors of slow-braised beef with the creamy texture of fresh ricotta and the satisfying stretch of melted mozzarella cheese.

It is the perfect centerpiece for a sophisticated dinner or a comforting weekend meal that brings restaurant-quality flavors directly to the home kitchen table.

Lasagna rolls offer a creative and visually appealing twist on the traditional layered pasta dish. By rolling individual portions, each serving receives the perfect ratio of tender meat, creamy cheese, and rich marinara sauce.

These rolls are simple to assemble yet feel incredibly luxurious, making them an excellent choice for hosting guests or enjoying a special evening at home. The combination of slow-cooked, succulent beef and the delicate, rippled pasta creates a textural balance that is both comforting and refined.

Ingredients

Why this recipe works

The method of rolling the lasagna allows for precise portion control and ensures that every guest receives a beautiful, individual serving.

Because the pasta is rolled, the filling stays tucked securely inside, which preserves the moisture of the ricotta and the tenderness of the shredded beef throughout the baking process.

Using pre-braised short ribs ensures that the meat is incredibly tender and packed with flavor before it even touches the pasta.

The marinara sauce acts as both a base and a topping, keeping the pasta hydrated while the mozzarella creates a golden, bubbly crust that adds a necessary savory finish to the entire dish.

Notes and substitutions

For the best results, use high-quality, whole-milk ricotta, as it provides a richer, creamier texture than part-skim versions. If the braised beef is very lean, consider folding in a tablespoon of the braising liquid to maintain optimal moisture levels within the filling before rolling the noodles.

Select a high-quality marinara sauce that has a balanced acidity to cut through the richness of the beef and cheese. When choosing lasagna noodles, opt for those with rippled edges, as they hold onto the sauce better than smooth varieties, ensuring every bite is flavorful and well-coated.

• short ribs: shredded chuck roast or brisket
• marinara sauce: your favorite jarred or homemade bolognese sauce

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• large mixing bowl
• two forks for shredding
• large pot for boiling pasta
• colander
• spatula