Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups offer a delightful twist on the classic lasagna, transforming it into individual servings that are both convenient and flavorful. Each roll-up features tender lasagna noodles wrapped around juicy meatballs, creamy ricotta cheese, and rich marinara sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella. This dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, providing a comforting and satisfying meal.Belly Full

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Individual Portions: Easy to serve and perfect for portion control.
Rich Flavors: Combines the savory taste of meatballs with creamy ricotta and tangy marinara.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and baked when ready to serve.
Versatile: Suitable for various occasions, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings.
Family Favorite: A dish that appeals to both adults and children alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 lasagna noodles, cooked until al dente
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
1/2 cup breadcrumbsLog in or sign up to view
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg, beatenRecipes by Clare+1Instagram+1
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoningRecipes by Clare+1Log in or sign up to view+1
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups marinara sauce, divided
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Directions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare Meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground beef or Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly and form into small meatballs.Recipes by Clare
Cook Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Assemble Roll-Ups: Lay the cooked lasagna noodles flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of ricotta cheese on each noodle. Place 2-3 meatballs on top and roll the noodles tightly.Recipes by Clare
Prepare Baking Dish: In a greased baking dish, spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom. Place the roll-ups seam-side down in the dish.Recipes by Clare
Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the roll-ups and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.Recipes by Clare
Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.Recipes by Clare
Serve: Allow the roll-ups to cool for a few minutes before serving.Recipes by Clare

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 45 minutesRecipes by Clare
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace meatballs with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini.
Cheese Variations: Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or add a layer of béchamel sauce for extra creaminess.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or use spicy Italian sausage.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and breadcrumbs.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh basil or parsley into the ricotta mixture for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Place cooled roll-ups in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought meatballs?

Yes, pre-cooked store-bought meatballs can be used to save time. Simply slice them in half before placing them on the noodles.

What type of marinara sauce works best?

A traditional marinara sauce complements the flavors well, but you can also use a spicy arrabbiata or a tomato basil sauce for variation.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the roll-ups, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking

Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

These Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups are a comforting twist on classic lasagna—tender pasta sheets rolled around juicy homemade meatballs, creamy ricotta, rich marinara, and gooey mozzarella. A family-friendly dinner bursting with traditional Italian flavors!

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs (about 1-inch).
Cook meatballs in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
Spread a thin layer of marinara in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Lay out each cooked lasagna noodle. Spread about 1 tablespoon ricotta along each noodle, place 2–3 meatballs on top, then roll up tightly.
Place each roll seam-side down in the baking dish. Spoon additional marinara over the top.
Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish with basil or parsley and serve warm.

Notes

You can use frozen meatballs for a shortcut—just thaw and use in place of homemade.
Add spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the ricotta layer for a veggie boost.

Make ahead and refrigerate before baking for easy meal prep.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American