Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups

These Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups combine the best of two classic Italian dishes—meatballs and lasagna—into one irresistible meal. Tender lasagna noodles are wrapped around juicy homemade meatballs, creamy ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella for a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Serve it up for dinner and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Comfort Food Perfection: Juicy meatballs, cheesy filling, and saucy goodness in every bite.
• Fun Twist on Tradition: Combines lasagna and meatballs into one creative dish.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep ahead and bake later for stress-free entertaining.

 Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage 🍖
• ½ cup breadcrumbs 🥖
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
• 1 egg , lightly beaten 🥚
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 🧄
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 🌿
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Roll-Ups:

• 12 lasagna noodles , cooked al dente 🍝
• 15 oz marinara sauce , divided (store-bought or homemade) 🍅
• 1 cup ricotta cheese 🧀
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese , divided 🧀
• ¼ cup chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish )

 Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven 🔥

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.

Step 2: Make the Meatballs 🍖

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or Italian sausage) , breadcrumbs , Parmesan cheese , egg , garlic powder , oregano , salt , and pepper . Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Form the mixture into 12 small meatballs , about 1–1.5 inches in diameter.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs 🍳

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 2–3 minutes per side , until they’re cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Roll-Ups 🍝

1. Lay out the cooked lasagna noodles on a clean surface.
2. Spread 1–2 tablespoons of ricotta cheese evenly over each noodle, leaving a small border at the edges.
3. Place one meatball at the bottom end of each noodle, then sprinkle a little mozzarella cheese over the meatball.
4. Carefully roll up each noodle around the meatball, securing the seam side down in the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese 🍅

1. Spoon ½ cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of the baking dish.
2. Arrange the lasagna roll-ups snugly in the dish, seam side down.
3. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the roll-ups, spreading it evenly.
4. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese generously over the top.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly 🍂

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes .
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes , or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve 🍴

1. Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh basil for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce on the side, if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Make Ahead: Assemble the roll-ups up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
• Freeze Option: Freeze unbaked roll-ups in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Customize: Add spinach to the ricotta mixture or swap mozzarella for provolone for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 6):

• Calories: ~400
• Protein: ~25g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Fat: ~20g

Enjoy these Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups as a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together the best of Italian cuisine. With their juicy meatballs, creamy ricotta, and saucy, cheesy goodness, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a hearty meal, these roll-ups are guaranteed to impress!