Name: Cheesy Meat Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound mild Italian sausage (bulk or casings removed); 1 small yellow onion, chopped (may sub 1 tsp onion powder); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 3-4 garlic cloves, minced; pinch red pepper flakes (optional); 1 32 oz. jar marinara sauce (I like Rao's Brand); 3/4 cup water; 1 tablespoon minced fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried); 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried); 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon (cubed, granulated or base)*; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/4 tsp dried thyme; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp pepper; 1 egg; 2 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (grated on micro grater); 1 tablespoon minced fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried); 1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried); 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp pepper; pinch nutmeg; 12 lasagna noodles (classic, NOT no boil); 1 1/2 cups freshly shredded mozzarella cheese; fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty, cheesy Italian dish that brings the whole family together—**Cheesy Meat Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe** is exactly that kind of meal. It’s like lasagna, but in fun, portable little bundles packed with rich meat sauce and creamy cheese, perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests.

The image shows a close-up of a baked dish with three visible rolled layers filled with a mixture of meat sauce, rice, and tomato sauce inside a white rectangular dish. Each layer is covered with melted white cheese that looks soft and slightly browned in spots. Bright green chopped herbs are sprinkled over the top, adding color contrast to the red tomato sauce and melted cheese. The edges of the dish show some sauce stains, giving a fresh baked look. A gold-colored serving spoon is partially visible on the right side, scooping one portion. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Cheesy Meat Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Cheesy Meat Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Meat Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

First off, this recipe feels special but is totally doable, even on a busy weeknight. I love how the roll-ups let you serve perfect portions without battling a big pan of lasagna. Plus, the layers of cheesy filling and homemade meat sauce bring a depth of flavor that’s irresistible.

Easy portion control: These roll-ups are naturally portioned, making serving a breeze and leftovers easy to handle.
Rich, flavorful meat sauce: Simmering the sausage with fresh herbs and tomato paste adds a savory depth that's better than any jarred sauce alone.
Creamy, dreamy cheese filling: The mix of ricotta, mozzarella, sour cream, and Parmesan creates a velvety texture that melts in your mouth.
Great for make-ahead meals: You can prep everything in advance, then bake when you're ready — perfect for busy lives or entertaining.

This image shows a close-up of a lasagna piece being lifted with a golden fork from a white baking dish. The lasagna has three main layers: a bottom layer of pasta noodles that are light yellow with a slightly wavy texture, a middle layer packed with a rich red tomato sauce mixed with brown cooked meat, and a top layer covered in melted white cheese that stretches as the piece is lifted. Green chopped herbs are sprinkled over the cheese, adding a fresh touch. The dish sits on a white marbled surface, and the lighting highlights the gooey texture and vibrant colors of the lasagna photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Cheesy Meat Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe pulls its weight, creating layers that complement each other in both flavor and texture. I’ve learned a few shopping tips over the years to help it come out perfect every time.

Flat lay of mild Italian sausage in raw bulk form, a small peeled yellow onion chopped, whole uncracked brown egg, a small mound of freshly shredded mozzarella cheese, a small white ceramic bowl with smooth whole milk ricotta cheese, a small white ceramic bowl with creamy sour cream, a small white ceramic bowl with finely grated Parmesan cheese, a small white ceramic bowl of rich red tomato paste, a few garlic cloves peeled and whole, a few sprigs of fresh basil, a few sprigs of fresh parsley, a small white ceramic bowl with olive oil, a pinch of dried red pepper flakes on white ceramic, a pinch of dried oregano, a pinch of dried thyme, a few classic cooked lasagna noodles laid flat, all ingredients arranged symmetrically on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Mild Italian sausage: The seasoning in this sausage brings authentic Italian flavor without overpowering the dish.
Yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth; I recommend fresh over powder if possible, but onion powder works in a pinch.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor, giving the sauce that rich, concentrated taste.
Marinara sauce: Choose a high-quality jar like Rao’s for a real flavor boost; it sets the base for your meat sauce perfectly.
Fresh herbs (basil, parsley): They bring brightness and just the right pop of freshness amidst the hearty meat and cheese.
Chicken bouillon: Just a touch adds savory depth, but feel free to swap for broth or skip if you like less salt.
Ricotta cheese: The star of the cheese filling that keeps everything creamy and moist without heaviness.
Mozzarella cheese: Nothing beats fresh shredded mozzarella melting to gooey perfection on top and inside.
Sour cream: Adds tang and silkiness; I love this unexpected addition to traditional fillings.
Parmesan cheese: Just a little grated Parmesan adds nutty complexity and savory punch.
Lasagna noodles: Classic boiled noodles work best here; no-boil ones tend to be too soft to roll.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love tweaking this Cheesy Meat Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe depending on what’s in the fridge or what the kids prefer. It’s a flexible dish that welcomes swaps and additions, so feel empowered to make it your own.

Variation: Sometimes I swap out sausage for ground beef or turkey when I want a leaner option, and it still turns out deliciously rich.
Vegetarian tweak: You can easily omit the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or eggplant for a hearty veggie roll-up version.
Spice it up: If you like a little heat, leave in or add extra red pepper flakes when cooking the sauce; it adds a nice kick without overpowering the cheese.
Cheese swap: Tried swapping ricotta for cottage cheese? Go for it! Just make sure to drain excess liquid for best texture.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cheesy Meat Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe

Step 1: Prepping Your Noodles and Sauce Base

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil and salt it generously—like the sea, as chefs say. Boil your lasagna noodles just shy of package instructions; undercooking slightly keeps them firm enough to roll later without breaking. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool them and stop the cooking. Lay them flat on baking sheets lined with parchment or silicone mats to prevent sticking. While the noodles rest, scoop half a cup of marinara to spread on your prepared baking dish—this adds a flavorful base that keeps your roll-ups from sticking and adds extra sauciness.

Step 2: Making the Meat Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large pan or Dutch oven, then gently sauté chopped onions until translucent and sweet. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks, letting those flavors mingle and brown beautifully. Stir in tomato paste, minced garlic, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you fancy a little heat, cooking just another minute to release their aromas. Pour in the rest of your marinara sauce, water, herbs, bouillon, and spices, then let it simmer gently for about eight minutes. This slow melding deepens the flavor, which you’ll taste in every bite of your roll-ups.

Step 3: Whipping Up That Luscious Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, whisk the egg until smooth, then add the ricotta, shredded mozzarella, sour cream, and Parmesan. Stir in fresh herbs, a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper to complement the richness. This cheese filling is the creamy heart of your roll-ups, so mix until everything is well combined and ready to spread.

Step 4: Assembling Your Roll-Ups

On each noodle, spoon about a quarter cup of cheese filling down the center, spreading it evenly but leaving space on the sides so you don’t lose filling when rolling. Then, spoon an equal amount of meat sauce over the cheese layer. Use your fingers to tuck in the sides gently and roll the noodle tightly from one end to the other. Place each roll seam side down in your baking dish, creating a cozy lineup ready for baking.

Step 5: Baking to Gooey Perfection

Spread the remaining meat sauce evenly over the roll-ups, then shower shredded mozzarella on top for that irresistible bubbly crust. Cover loosely with foil—tenting it so it doesn’t stick to the cheese—and bake at 375˚F for 35-40 minutes. You’re looking for fully melted cheese with sauce bubbling around the edges. Let it stand a few minutes before serving to set those layers perfectly.

Top Tip

After making this Cheesy Meat Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe several times, I’ve learned some kitchen hacks that really elevate the final dish and ease the whole process.

Don’t overcrowd your noodles: When boiling, give each noodle room to move. Overcrowding can cause them to stick or stick together when rolling.
Pat your noodles dry: Rinsing with cold water stops cooking, but drying the noodles well prevents watery filling and keeps your roll-ups firm.
Use a large cookie scoop: Portioning cheese and meat sauce evenly is easier and faster, ensuring every roll is balanced and delicious.
Layer more sauce if you like it saucy: I sometimes add an extra ½ cup marinara spread on top before baking for extra moisture and flavor.

How to Serve Cheesy Meat Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe

cheesy meat lasagna roll-ups - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I love topping these roll-ups with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley—it adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness against all that rich cheese. Sometimes I add a bit of extra Parmesan just before serving for an extra hit of savory goodness.

Side Dishes

Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to balance the meal. Garlic bread is a classic combo—I can’t say no to that crispy, buttery crunch alongside my cheesy meat roll-ups!

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I arrange the roll-ups in a circular pattern in a round baking dish, adding fresh basil leaves between each roll for a gorgeous touch. Drizzle with a little basil pesto right before serving for an elegant twist that’s always a conversation starter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I cover the baking dish tightly with foil and store leftovers in the fridge for up to five days. The roll-ups hold their flavor well, and reheating is a snap for busy days when I want comfort food with minimal effort.

Freezing

Once assembled but unbaked, I freeze the roll-ups in a freezer-safe dish wrapped thoroughly with plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. They keep beautifully for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and add 10 minutes to your baking time for perfect reheated lasagna roll-ups.

Reheating

For quick reheating, microwave individual portions covered with a paper towel for about a minute, adding 15-second increments as needed. For a better texture, reheat in a 325ºF oven covered with foil for 20-25 minutes until warmed through and bubbly.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe?

I recommend sticking to classic boiled lasagna noodles because they’re more pliable when rolling. No-boil noodles tend to become too soft and fragile, making them tricky to roll without tearing.

How do I prevent the cheese filling from leaking out when rolling?

Spread the filling neatly, leaving about half an inch at the edges free of filling. When you roll, tuck the sides gently in with your fingers and roll tightly but gently. Laying the rolls seam side down in the baking dish also helps keep everything together while baking.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the roll-ups a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as usual, adding about 10 extra minutes to the baking time.

What can I serve with Cheesy Meat Lasagna Roll-Ups?

Light, fresh sides work great to balance the richness. Try a crisp Caesar salad, roasted veggies like asparagus or green beans, or even a simple garlic bread for a classic Italian pairing. These choices add texture and freshness to each bite.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Meat Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe holds a special spot in my kitchen because it combines beloved classic flavors with an approachable twist that anyone can enjoy. Whenever I make these, I know I’m creating more than a meal—I’m making moments for sharing, laughter, and comfort. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll have a new favorite to add to your recipe rotation.