Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups are a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, featuring tender lasagna noodles rolled up with a creamy cheese filling and hearty meatballs. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a satisfying combination of flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb Italian meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 egg
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Lay each lasagna noodle flat and spread an even layer of the ricotta mixture on top. Roll up the noodles and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the roll-ups and arrange the meatballs on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves approximately 6 people. The total time for preparation and cooking is about 50 minutes.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute meatballs with sautéed vegetables or a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian dish.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture or marinara sauce for some heat.
- Extra Veggies: Incorporate cooked spinach or mushrooms into the cheese filling for added nutrition.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual servings until heated through.
10 FAQs
- Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, you can use no-boil noodles; just adjust the cooking time as needed. - What type of meatballs should I use?
You can use homemade or store-bought Italian meatballs, whichever you prefer. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups and refrigerate them before baking for up to 24 hours. - Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, it freezes well. Just assemble and freeze before baking, then thaw and bake when ready. - What can I serve with lasagna roll-ups?
A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs nicely with this dish. - Can I add more sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to drizzle extra marinara on top before serving. - What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
You can substitute with cottage cheese or a cream cheese blend for a similar texture. - Is this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free lasagna noodles. - How can I make this dish lighter?
Use reduced-fat cheese and lean turkey or chicken meatballs for a healthier version. - How do I know when it’s done?
The dish is ready when the cheese is melted, and the roll-ups are hot throughout.
Conclusion
Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups are a fun and delicious way to enjoy classic Italian flavors in a new format. With their cheesy filling and savory meatballs, these roll-ups are sure to become a favorite in your household. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this dish combines comfort and taste in every bite!
PrintItalian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups
- Total Time: 1 hour
Description
Delight in the flavors of Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups, featuring cheesy ricotta-filled noodles rolled around savory meatballs and smothered in marinara. A comforting twist on a classic dish!
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb Italian meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 egg
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Lay each lasagna noodle flat and spread an even layer of the ricotta mixture on top. Roll up the noodles and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce over the roll-ups and arrange the meatballs on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
For a bit of extra flavor, add Italian seasoning to the ricotta mixture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes