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Meatball roll-ups have become my crowd-pleaser for family gatherings and chilly evenings when we all crave something cheesy and comforting. These spirals of lasagna noodles, stuffed with tender Italian meatballs, lush ricotta, and blanketed in marinara and gooey mozzarella, are as fun to assemble as they are to eat.
I first made these for a Sunday dinner when I needed an impressive main dish with minimal fuss. Ever since then, anytime our family hears “meatball roll-ups” on the menu, there is excitement all around the table.
Ingredients
- Lasagna noodles: provide a sturdy base that holds all the filling and sauce
- Ground beef or Italian sausage: makes for flavorful meatballs use a mix for extra dimension
- Breadcrumbs: soak up juices and keep the meatballs light
- Grated Parmesan cheese: deepens richness look for real Parmigiano-Reggiano
- Egg: binds the meatball mixture together ensuring they stay tender
- Italian seasoning: delivers classic herby aroma dried oregano and basil work beautifully
- Marinara sauce: gives tangy tomato flavor use a high-quality jarred version or homemade
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts into a stretchy topping buy it in a block and grate fresh for the best texture
- Ricotta cheese: adds creamy softness to the filling choose full-fat for best flavor
- Garlic: infuses the meatballs with restaurant-style savor mince cloves just before using
- Olive oil: is for browning the meatballs opt for extra-virgin if possible
- Salt and black pepper: ensure depth and balance to each layer
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Meatball Mixture:
- Combine ground meat breadcrumbs Parmesan egg minced garlic Italian seasoning salt and black pepper in a large bowl with clean hands until just mixed This keeps the meat tender not dense
- Shape and Brown the Meatballs:
- Form small meatballs using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat Add the meatballs and brown them well on all sides Cook until fully done about eight minutes Remove to a plate
- Prepare the Noodles and Filling:
- Lay the cooked lasagna noodles out flat Spread a thin layer of ricotta cheese along each one Top each with two or three browned meatballs at an even distance down the noodle
- Roll and Arrange:
- Carefully roll up each noodle around the filling Place the roll-ups seam-side down in a greased baking dish that already has a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom
- Top and Bake:
- Pour remaining marinara sauce evenly over the roll-ups Sprinkle all the shredded mozzarella on top Cover the dish with foil Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for twenty five minutes then remove foil and bake ten minutes more until golden and bubbling
- Finish and Serve:
- Let the roll-ups sit for a few minutes so they stay together neatly Serve hot and enjoy that melty cheese pull with every scoop
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Meatballs are my favorite part to customize Sometimes I use half beef and half sausage for extra flavor or tuck in chopped spinach for a veggie boost My kids love helping with the rolling and assembling each noodle becomes their own masterpiece
Storage Tips
These meatball roll-ups store well in the refrigerator for up to three days Wrap tightly or transfer to an airtight container For longer storage freeze individual servings and reheat them straight from the freezer for quick dinners The noodles actually hold up beautifully after freezing and reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist Use gluten-free lasagna noodles if wheat is a concern For the cheese I sometimes use part-skim mozzarella or even a sprinkle of provolone for extra gooeyness No fresh ricotta Try cottage cheese blended until smooth
Serving Suggestions
Serve the roll-ups as a hearty main course with a crisp green salad and garlic bread For a family-style dinner I add roasted vegetables or a simple antipasto platter on the side Leftovers reheat well for lunch the next day
Cultural Context
Lasagna in Italy is usually served in broad flat layers but the rolled version has a special party vibe It is like all the Sunday dinner favorites in one pretty package I learned to make this dish at a potluck where everyone loved the novelty of rolled pasta over the usual casserole style
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use store-bought meatballs?
Yes, store-bought meatballs can be used to save time. Simply warm them before rolling into the noodles.
- → What’s the best way to cook the noodles?
Cook the lasagna noodles just until al dente to prevent tearing while rolling. Drain and lay them flat on a towel.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add extra sauce if needed before baking.
- → How can I make this vegetarian?
Substitute the meatballs with a mixture of sautéed vegetables and cheese for a satisfying vegetarian version.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Crisp side salads, roasted vegetables, and freshly baked garlic bread complement these Italian-style roll-ups perfectly.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze baked roll-ups in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.