If you are on the hunt for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that’s both fun to eat and bursting with flavor, this Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe is the answer. Picture tender lasagna noodles rolled up with creamy ricotta cheese and savory Italian meatballs, all smothered in zesty marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella. This dish takes all the classic lasagna elements but presents them in a delightful, handheld way that makes every bite a celebration. It’s perfect for cozy family meals or impressive gatherings where you want to serve something that tastes homemade but feels special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but essential ingredients is the key to making this recipe a hit. Each component plays a vital role in building layers of taste, texture, and color, transforming ordinary pasta and cheese into a masterpiece.
- 9 lasagna noodles: The perfect base that holds all the delicious fillings together and becomes tender yet firm when cooked.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle richness, helping to keep noodles from sticking and enhancing overall flavor.
- 12 fully cooked Italian meatballs, chopped: The star protein that brings hearty, seasoned meaty bites into every roll-up.
- 1 jar (24-ounce) marinara sauce, divided: A rich, tangy tomato sauce that keeps everything moist and flavor-packed.
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it forms the luscious base filling inside each noodle.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ricotta mixture for smooth, stable filling that holds its shape when baked.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings aromatic herbs like basil and oregano, boosting the classic Italian flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a gentle garlic warmth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to balance the creamy and cheesy layers.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly on top and inside, giving that irresistible cheese pull everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkles of this sharp, nutty cheese finish the dish with savory depth.
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional): A fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens the plate and adds a pop of color.
How to Make Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles and Sauce
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Then, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente—just tender but still firm to the bite. Drain them carefully and lay each noodle flat on a clean surface so they don’t stick together. This step ensures that your noodles have the perfect texture for rolling later.
Step 2: Make the Ricotta Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix everything until it forms a smooth, creamy mixture. This flavorful filling will add a luscious, rich layer inside the pasta rolls, blending beautifully with the meatballs.
Step 3: Assemble the Roll-Ups
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish to keep the roll-ups moist and infused with sauce as they bake. Then, spread an even layer of the ricotta mixture over each lasagna noodle. Sprinkle the chopped Italian meatballs across the noodles evenly, followed by a light sprinkle of shredded mozzarella. Now, carefully roll each noodle tightly from one end to the other and place them seam-side down in the baking dish. This keeps the rolls intact during baking and makes for a neat presentation.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese, Then Bake
Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the assembled roll-ups, then generously sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture locked in, and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. Finally, let the roll-ups rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle perfectly.
How to Serve Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves over the top adds a gorgeous burst of green and a fresh herbal aroma that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese and tomato sauce. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving can also add a little glossy finish and smooth silkiness.
Side Dishes
These roll-ups are hearty enough to be a main event, but you can round out the meal with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables also make a wonderful, colorful side that adds freshness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual roll-ups on each plate, stacking two per serving, and drizzle a little extra marinara sauce around the edge of the plate for a restaurant-style look. For a family-style dinner, arrange the roll-ups neatly in the baking dish and bring it right to the table so everyone can help themselves. This adds a cozy, communal vibe to your meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors again without losing that moist, cheesy texture.
Freezing
You can also prepare the roll-ups ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Reheating
To reheat, place the roll-ups in a preheated oven at 350°F, covered with foil to prevent drying out, for about 15–20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, individual portions reheat well in the microwave, though the oven method preserves that wonderful baked texture best.
FAQs
Can I use fresh meatballs instead of cooked ones?
While using fully cooked Italian meatballs is recommended for convenience and safety, you can use raw meatballs if you bake them first separately before chopping and adding to the roll-ups. This ensures they cook thoroughly inside the rolls.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan combine perfectly to offer creaminess, stretchiness, and sharpness. Using whole milk ricotta will make the filling richer. You can experiment with adding shredded provolone for extra melty flavor if you prefer.
Is there a gluten-free alternative for the lasagna noodles?
Absolutely! Look for gluten-free lasagna noodles available in many grocery stores, or try using thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant as a veggie-friendly wrap for a lower-carb variation.
Can I assemble these roll-ups ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the roll-ups, cover the dish tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes weekday dinners or entertaining super easy and stress-free.
How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together?
After draining the cooked noodles, lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper and brush lightly with olive oil. This simple step keeps them separate and makes rolling much easier.
Final Thoughts
Making the Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe is such a joyful cooking adventure that delivers warmth, comfort, and fantastic flavors every time. Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or serving guests who will be wowed by your skills, this dish hits all the right notes. Give it a try, roll up some happiness, and enjoy every cheesy, meaty bite with people you love!
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Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups are a delicious twist on classic lasagna, featuring tender lasagna noodles filled with a rich ricotta cheese mixture, flavorful Italian meatballs, and plenty of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Baked to bubbly perfection, these roll-ups make for a comforting and family-friendly main course perfect for any Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Lasagna Roll-Ups
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 fully cooked Italian meatballs, chopped
- 24 ounces marinara sauce, divided
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain them well and lay flat on a clean surface to prevent sticking.
- Make Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Assemble Roll-ups: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over each lasagna noodle. Sprinkle chopped meatballs evenly over the ricotta layer, then add a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Roll and Arrange: Carefully roll each noodle tightly, starting at one end. Place the roll-ups seam-side down in the baking dish, arranging them close together.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Spoon the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the roll-ups, then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes to heat through and melt cheese.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the lasagna roll-ups rest for 5 minutes after baking. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil if desired before serving.
Notes
- Use beef, pork, or turkey meatballs based on your preference for different flavors and textures.
- You can assemble the roll-ups ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake, making meal prep easy.
- Ensure noodles are fully cooled and laid flat to avoid cracking when rolling.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper to the ricotta mixture or marinara sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
