Is there anything more satisfying than a bubbling tray of cheesy, tomato-sauced lasagna? Maybe just one thing: Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll Ups. This recipe takes all the flavors you crave—perfectly seasoned meatballs, tangy marinara, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella—and wraps them up into individual servings that bake up bubbly and golden. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping ahead, or hosting a casual get-together, these roll ups deliver on comfort and ease.
If traditional lasagna feels a bit fussy, this version offers everything you love in a simplified form. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly and reheat beautifully, making them ideal for batch cooking or gifting to new parents or neighbors in need of a home-cooked hug.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something so rewarding about pulling a tray of these roll ups from the oven. The top is golden and bubbling, the marinara sauce is rich and savory, and every roll delivers a perfect balance of meat, cheese, and pasta in every bite.
Here’s why they’re a go-to in my kitchen:
- No messy slicing like traditional lasagna
- Freezer-friendly and great for leftovers
- Kid-approved and picky-eater tested
- Customizable with endless filling and topping options
Ingredients
- 10 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce (use your favorite or homemade)
- 18–20 small Italian meatballs (fully cooked)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Ingredient Swaps & Notes
- Meatballs: You can use beef, pork, turkey, or even plant-based meatballs for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Cheese Options: Add provolone, smoked gouda, or even a few slices of fresh mozzarella to up the gooey factor.
- Marinara Sauce: Homemade is always wonderful, but jarred sauce saves time. Spice it up with red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil Pasta: Cook lasagna noodles until just al dente. Drain and lay flat to prevent sticking.
- Mix Filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble Roll Ups: Spread about 2 tbsp of the ricotta mixture onto each noodle. Place 2 meatballs at one end and roll up tightly.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara on the bottom of a 9×13” baking dish.
- Add Rolls: Place roll ups seam-side down in the dish. Top with remaining sauce.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Cool and Garnish: Let rest 5 minutes before garnishing with fresh basil or parsley.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook noodles: Slightly underdone is better—they’ll finish cooking in the oven.
- Use small meatballs: Larger ones can make rolling tricky.
- Add veggies: Spinach or roasted zucchini can be layered under the ricotta mixture for a nutritious boost.
- Double batch: This recipe easily scales—freeze a second tray for later!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These roll ups shine on their own, but pair beautifully with sides and drinks that elevate your Italian night:
- This Blueberry Lemonade adds a bright, refreshing contrast to all the cheesy richness.
- For a fun appetizer to start the meal, try This Crockpot Nacho Dip. It sets the tone for comfort food heaven.
- Craving something bold? Sip on This Classic Margarita for a zesty pairing that cuts through the richness.
- Serve with crusty garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted Brussels sprouts.
- End the meal on a sweet note with These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs—you’ll thank me later.
Storage and Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual roll ups in foil and freeze. To reheat, thaw overnight and bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes.
- Microwave: Reheat 1–2 roll ups with extra sauce to keep them moist.
More Recipes You’ll Love
- This Crockpot Nacho Dip Is the Reason I Never Have Leftovers
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas Are My Favorite Way to Feed a Crowd Fast
- This Instant Pot Lasagna Is My Favorite Way to Make Comfort Food Fast
- These Chicken Enchiladas Are My Go-To for Cozy, Crowd-Pleasing Dinners
- This Dorito Casserole Is My Favorite Weeknight Dinner Shortcut
Final Thoughts
These Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll Ups are a comforting, crowd-pleasing twist on the classic. They’re as impressive as they are simple, and they turn any dinner into a celebration of bold Italian flavor and melty goodness. Perfect for family dinners, entertaining, or just indulging in something cozy.
If you give them a try, leave a review or share your spin on the recipe. I’d love to hear what fillings, sauces, or sides you pair with yours!
Let’s connect—follow ChefManiac for more recipes like this one.
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