Why Make This Recipe
Meatball Roll-Ups are a fun and delicious way to enjoy traditional Italian flavors. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, as it combines the classic appeal of meatballs, cheese, and marinara sauce. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be served hot and fresh from the oven, making them a delightful main course that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this hearty dish in no time!
How to Make Meatball Roll-Ups
Ingredients
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.
- In a bowl, mix together the cooked meatballs and ricotta cheese.
- Lay cooked lasagna noodles flat and spoon the meatball mixture along one edge. Roll up tightly.
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Place the roll-ups seam side down in the dish.
- Top with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
How to Serve Meatball Roll-Ups
Serve Meatball Roll-Ups warm from the oven, garnished with fresh basil if you like. They go well with a side salad or some garlic bread. You can also serve extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
How to Store Meatball Roll-Ups
If you have leftovers, allow the Meatball Roll-Ups to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Tips to Make Meatball Roll-Ups
- Make sure the lasagna noodles are fully cooked but still firm to prevent them from breaking when you roll them.
- Feel free to add extra spices or herbs according to your taste.
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
- If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought meatballs instead of making your own.
Variation
You can also try adding vegetables to the filling, such as chopped spinach or bell peppers. Another option is to switch the cheeses – use a different cheese blend for a unique flavor.
FAQs
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Can I make Meatball Roll-Ups in advance?
Yes, you can assemble them ahead of time and store them in the fridge before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to eat. -
Can I freeze Meatball Roll-Ups?
Absolutely! You can freeze the roll-ups before baking. Just wrap them well and store them in the freezer. When ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a bit more time to the cooking. -
Can I use gluten-free noodles?
Yes, you can substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free noodles to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Meatball Roll-Ups
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 12 pieces lasagna noodles, cooked Ensure they are cooked but still firm.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking the meat.
- 1 pound ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese For the filling.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded For topping.
- 1 cup marinara sauce Used for layering and topping.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder For seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning For flavor.
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.
- as needed Fresh basil for garnish Optional garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.
- In a bowl, mix together the cooked meatballs and ricotta cheese.
- Lay cooked lasagna noodles flat and spoon the meatball mixture along one edge. Roll up tightly.
Cooking
- Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Place the roll-ups seam side down in the dish.
- Top with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.