Three-Cheese Sausage Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe

If you love lasagna but are looking for a twist on the classic dish, these Three-Cheese Sausage Lasagna Roll-Ups are the perfect solution. This recipe takes all the delicious elements of traditional lasagna—rich marinara sauce, savory sausage, and melty cheese—and rolls them into individual portions that are easy to serve and enjoy. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates a creamy, gooey filling that perfectly complements the tender lasagna noodles. Paired with a flavorful Italian sausage filling and a tangy marinara sauce, these roll-ups are sure to be a hit at any family dinner or gathering.

Not only are these lasagna roll-ups incredibly tasty, but they also offer a fun and interactive way to enjoy lasagna. Each roll-up is a perfect portion, making it easier to serve and customize. Plus, you can prepare these ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer for a quick and satisfying meal on busy days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavor-Packed

The combination of Italian sausage, three types of cheese, and marinara sauce creates an explosion of flavors that will leave you coming back for more.

2. Easy to Serve

The individual roll-ups make it easy to serve portions without the mess of traditional lasagna layers. They’re also great for portion control.

3. Customizable

This recipe can be easily adapted to suit dietary preferences—use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or swap the cheese for vegan alternatives.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

These roll-ups store well in the refrigerator and freezer, making them an excellent option for meal prep. Simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

5. Family-Friendly

Kids and adults alike will enjoy these bite-sized roll-ups, making them an ideal dinner for families.

Ingredients

• Lasagna noodles (cooked until al dente)
• Italian sausage (remove the casing for crumbling)
• Ricotta cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Large egg
• Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Dried basil
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter version, swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this dish gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Opt for vegan cheese substitutes (like dairy-free ricotta and mozzarella) and replace the egg with a flaxseed mixture for binding.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or some finely chopped fresh chili to the sausage filling for a bit of heat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a sheet of parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat if necessary. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, dried basil, and chopped parsley. Stir until the mixture is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Roll-Ups

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. On each lasagna noodle, spread a generous amount of the cheese mixture, then top with a spoonful of cooked sausage. Roll the noodle up tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the roll-ups and sprinkle with extra mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 20-25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and become golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the lasagna roll-ups are baked and bubbly, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with extra chopped parsley before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Prevent Sticking: Lay the cooked lasagna noodles flat to prevent them from sticking together while you prepare the filling.
• Use a Non-Stick Skillet: When cooking the sausage, a non-stick skillet will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Don’t Overstuff: When filling the noodles, don’t overstuff them. A little goes a long way, and too much filling can cause the roll-ups to unravel.
• Cover with Foil: Cover the baking dish with foil during the first part of baking to help the cheese melt and prevent it from drying out.
• Make Extra Sauce: If you’re a fan of extra sauce, feel free to make a bit more marinara sauce to pour over the roll-ups before baking.

How to Serve

These Three-Cheese Sausage Lasagna Roll-Ups are delicious on their own, but you can pair them with a variety of sides to make it a complete meal. Serve them with a side of garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded dinner. You could also add a side of extra marinara sauce for dipping!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover lasagna roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the roll-ups in a baking dish and cover them with foil. You can freeze the dish for up to 2-3 months. To bake from frozen, preheat the oven to 375°F, cover with foil, and bake for 45-50 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.

Reheating

To reheat, place the roll-ups in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until they are heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make these lasagna roll-ups ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups and store them in the refrigerator overnight before baking them. Just bake them the next day.

2. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free lasagna noodles, and ensure that your marinara sauce is gluten-free.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of Italian sausage?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of this dish.

4. Can I freeze these lasagna roll-ups?

Yes, these roll-ups freeze well. Just assemble them, cover with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen as directed.

5. Can I make a vegetarian version of this dish?

Yes, you can omit the sausage and use vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini in the roll-ups instead.

6. How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together after cooking?

Lay the cooked noodles flat on parchment paper or drizzle them lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.

7. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use vegan cheese substitutes and omit the egg, replacing it with a flaxseed mixture or another egg replacer.

8. Can I add more cheese to the filling?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more mozzarella or even ricotta to the cheese mixture for a creamier texture.

9. How do I reheat the roll-ups?

You can reheat the roll-ups in the microwave or bake them in the oven until heated through.

10. Can I serve this dish with a side salad?

Yes, a side salad is a great complement to these lasagna roll-ups. A simple green salad with Italian dressing works well.

Conclusion

These Three-Cheese Sausage Lasagna Roll-Ups are the ultimate comfort food with a twist. By rolling up the ingredients, this version is not only easier to serve but also adds an element of fun to a classic dish. With a rich blend of cheeses, savory sausage, and tangy marinara sauce, these roll-ups are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, these lasagna roll-ups are a perfect choice!

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