Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups are a fun, family-friendly twist on classic lasagna each roll bursting with cheesy layers, tender noodles, marinara sauce, and juicy meatballs. These individual portions are easy to serve, freezer-friendly, and full of comforting Italian flavors. It’s everything you love about lasagna, but simpler to make and perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Portable Lasagna Rolls: Great for individual servings or storing leftovers.
Easy to Assemble: No complicated layering just roll, top, and bake!
Family Favorite: Kids love the meatballs, and adults love the flavor.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble now, bake later.
Cheesy, Saucy, and So Satisfying: It’s comfort food done right.

INGREDIENTS

For the Roll-Ups:

• 8–10 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
• 20–25 small fully-cooked meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2–3 cups marinara or pasta sauce

For Topping:

• Extra mozzarella and Parmesan, for sprinkling
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1 – Prep the Lasagna Noodles:

Cook noodles in salted water until al dente. Drain and lay flat on a parchment-lined surface to prevent sticking.

Step 2 – Make the Cheese Mixture:

In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth and combined.

Step 3 – Assemble the Roll-Ups:

Spread a spoonful of the cheese mixture onto each lasagna noodle. Place 2–3 meatballs on top, spaced evenly along the noodle. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish with a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.

Step 4 – Top with Sauce and Cheese:

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the roll-ups. Sprinkle with extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Step 5 – Bake:

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.

Step 6 – Serve:

Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

NOTES

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4–6

TIPS FOR SUCCESS

• Use oven-ready noodles to skip boiling if you’re in a hurry just make sure they’re well-sauced before baking.
• Homemade meatballs add extra flavor, but frozen ones work great too (thaw first).
• Spread the cheese mixture evenly for smooth rolling.
• Don’t overstuff or they’ll burst during baking.

VARIATIONS

• Vegetarian: Swap meatballs with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted veggies.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the cheese or sauce.
• Meat Lovers: Use sausage meatballs or add crumbled bacon between layers.
• Cheese Options: Add provolone, fontina, or goat cheese for a twist.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• Pair with garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks.
• Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Add a glass of red wine (like Chianti or Merlot) for the perfect dinner.

MAKE-AHEAD & STORAGE

• To Make Ahead: Assemble, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 2 days.
• To Freeze: Freeze unbaked roll-ups for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge overnight and bake as directed.
• Leftovers: Store in the fridge up to 4 days. Reheat in microwave or oven.

FAQs

Can I use no-boil noodles?
Yes, but soften them slightly in warm water or ensure they are fully covered in sauce during baking.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
Absolutely! Just drain any excess liquid first for best texture.

Do I need to cook the meatballs before rolling?
Yes, the meatballs should be fully cooked before baking in the roll-ups.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free lasagna noodles and meatballs.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups bring all the cozy lasagna flavors you crave with a fun, easy twist. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner, prepping freezer meals, or serving guests, these cheesy, saucy roll-ups are always a hit. They’re customizable, kid-approved, and guaranteed to satisfy every comfort food craving!

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