Description
Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups combine classic lasagna flavors with individual rolls filled with homemade meatballs, creamy ricotta cheese, and rich marinara sauce. This comforting baked dish offers a delicious twist on traditional lasagna, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Lasagna Roll-Ups
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked until al dente
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cheese & Sauce
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce, divided
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the lasagna roll-ups.
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, bread crumbs, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes.
- Assemble the Roll-ups: Lay the cooked lasagna noodles flat. Spread a thin layer of ricotta cheese evenly over each noodle. Place 2-3 cooked meatballs on one end of each noodle, then carefully roll the noodle up around the meatballs.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish, then spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom. Arrange the lasagna roll-ups seam-side down in the dish.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the roll-ups. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously on top.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil to prevent excessive browning. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add chopped fresh basil or parsley to the ricotta cheese spread.
- Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente to prevent them from getting too soft after baking.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Let the roll-ups rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat thoroughly before serving.
