Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups

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

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl, mix ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. 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.
4. Pour marinara sauce over the roll-ups and arrange the meatballs on top.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
6. 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

1. Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
   Yes, you can use no-boil noodles; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. What type of meatballs should I use?
   You can use homemade or store-bought Italian meatballs, whichever you prefer.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups and refrigerate them before baking for up to 24 hours.
4. Can I freeze this dish?
   Yes, it freezes well. Just assemble and freeze before baking, then thaw and bake when ready.
5. What can I serve with lasagna roll-ups?
   A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs nicely with this dish.
6. Can I add more sauce?
   Absolutely! Feel free to drizzle extra marinara on top before serving.
7. What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?
   You can substitute with cottage cheese or a cream cheese blend for a similar texture.
8. Is this dish gluten-free?
   To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free lasagna noodles.
9. How can I make this dish lighter?
   Use reduced-fat cheese and lean turkey or chicken meatballs for a healthier version.
10. 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!

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