A delicious and comforting twist on traditional lasagna, these lasagna roll-ups are stuffed with juicy Italian meatballs, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella, then baked to perfection in a rich marinara sauce.

Why make this recipe

Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups are a delicious twist on the classic lasagna. They are fun to make and even more fun to eat! The combination of meatballs, cheese, and marinara sauce wrapped in lasagna noodles makes for a hearty meal that is sure to please the whole family. Plus, they are perfect for meal prep and can be easily stored for later.

How to make Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups

Ingredients

For the Roll-Ups:

• 12 lasagna noodles (regular, not oven-ready)
• 12–15 small Italian-style meatballs (homemade or frozen and thawed)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

For the Ricotta Cheese Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven & Cook Pasta

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay flat on a parchment-lined surface to prevent sticking.

2. Mix the Cheese Filling

• In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully blended.

3. Assemble the Roll-Ups

• Spread a thin layer of marinara on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• On each noodle, spread 2–3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture evenly.
• Place 1 meatball (or 1.5 if small) on one end of each noodle.
• Roll up the noodles starting from the meatball end and place seam-side down in the baking dish.

4. Top with Sauce and Cheese

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

5. Bake

• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

6. Garnish and Serve

• Let cool for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley.
• Serve warm with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.

Calories (Per Serving – 2 Roll-Ups)

• Calories: ~430
• Protein: ~25g
• Carbs: ~36g
• Fat: ~22g
• Sodium: ~700mg

Approximate values based on standard ingredients.

How to serve Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups

Serve the roll-ups hot from the oven, topped with extra marinara sauce if desired. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor. Pair it with a simple salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.

How to store Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups

To store leftover roll-ups, let them cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer. They will keep well for up to 2 months.

Tips to make Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups

• Make sure not to overcook the lasagna noodles. They should be al dente so they hold together when rolling.
• You can add more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the meatball mixture for extra nutrition.
• Use homemade marinara sauce for a fresher taste, or choose your favorite store-bought version.

Variation

You can switch up the meatballs by using turkey or chicken instead of beef or sausage. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with a mixture of black beans, quinoa, and chopped vegetables.

FAQs

Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can prep the roll-ups ahead of time. Just cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

How can I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, place the roll-ups in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
While lasagna noodles work best, you can also use wide ribbon pasta like pappardelle or even stuffed pasta shells if you prefer. Adjust the filling accordingly.

Conclusion

Italian Meatball Lasagna Roll-Ups are the perfect combination of comfort, convenience, and classic flavor. With tender lasagna noodles wrapped around creamy ricotta and juicy meatballs, all smothered in rich marinara and melty cheese, this dish delivers all the satisfaction of traditional lasagna—but with a fun and easy-to-serve twist. Whether you’re feeding a family on a busy weeknight or impressing guests at a dinner party, these roll-ups offer a crowd-pleasing solution that feels both special and simple. Plus, they store and reheat beautifully, making them a fantastic make-ahead or freezer-friendly option. Try them once, and they’ll quickly become a regular in your meal rotation!