If you’re craving a comforting Italian meal that feels special yet is incredibly approachable, this Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe will become your new favorite. Imagine tender lasagna noodles wrapped around a rich mixture of ground turkey, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella cheeses, all smothered in vibrant marinara sauce. It’s a delightful twist on classic lasagna that’s easier to serve and perfect for casual dinners, family meals, or impressing friends without hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From tender noodles to savory herbs and creamy cheeses, everything comes together beautifully in this dish.
- 12 lasagna noodles: The canvas for your filling that’s tender yet sturdy enough to roll without breaking.
- 1 lb ground turkey: A lean protein that keeps the roll-ups light but flavorful.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy, smooth texture that melts perfectly with the meat.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Provides gooey, melty cheese to both mix inside and top off the dish.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty flavor to enhance the cheesy filling.
- 1 egg, beaten: Binds the filling together so each roll-up holds its shape beautifully.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: A rich, tangy tomato sauce that keeps everything moist and infuses classic Italian flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Delivers subtle warmth and depth to the filling.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Adds a sweet, herbal note that complements the tomato sauce perfectly.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Enhances the Italian essence with its slightly peppery, aromatic quality.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the other flavors.
How to Make Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready for baking as soon as you finish assembling your delicious roll-ups. This ensures even cooking and melts the cheese to perfection.
Step 2: Cook Noodles
Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente, which means tender but with a slight firmness. Drain them well and lay each noodle flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking—a crucial step for easy rolling later.
Step 3: Prepare Turkey Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground turkey until it’s no longer pink, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat for a lighter dish without compromising flavor.
Step 4: Prepare Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and the beaten egg. Add garlic powder, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper for a well-rounded seasoning. Stir in the cooked turkey until it’s evenly incorporated for a savory, creamy filling.
Step 5: Assemble Roll-Ups
Spread a thin layer of the turkey and cheese mixture onto each cooked lasagna noodle. Roll the noodles up carefully, sealing the filling inside, then place each roll seam-side down in a baking dish. This helps them keep their shape during baking.
Step 6: Add Sauce and Cheese
Pour the marinara sauce generously over the roll-ups to keep them moist and flavorful as they bake. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella on top for that irresistible golden, bubbly cheese finish.
Step 7: Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld and the heat penetrate evenly. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
Step 8: Serve
Allow the roll-ups to cool for a few minutes before serving so they hold together better and the cheese sets just right. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting layers of flavor in every bite!
How to Serve Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped basil or parsley add a burst of vibrant color and a refreshing herbal note that brightens the dish. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also enhance the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a balanced, complete meal. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini also complement the rich, cheesy roll-ups without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, try serving the roll-ups stacked on a platter with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. You can also plate individual portions with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan and a wedge of lemon for brightness and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool them completely before storing to maintain their texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, it freezes beautifully. Arrange the assembled roll-ups in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as instructed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, for about 15–20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave for a quicker option, though the texture might be a little softer.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, beef, or even sausage can be used depending on your preference. Each will change the flavor slightly but will still taste delicious with the cheese and marinara.
Do I need to boil the noodles before rolling?
Yes, boiling the noodles until al dente ensures they are flexible enough to roll without cracking. It also helps them absorb flavors during baking.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground turkey and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a flavorful vegetarian filling.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing after baking?
It’s best to freeze the roll-ups before baking for optimal texture and flavor. Freezing after baking can sometimes change the sauce consistency and cheese texture.
How can I make this dish lower in calories?
Using part-skim cheeses or reducing the amount of cheese can lower calories. Also, choosing lean ground turkey and limiting the cheese topping will keep it lighter while still being tasty.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe that makes it a standout for weeknight dinners or for entertaining family and friends. It combines classic flavors with a fun, easy-to-eat format that feels cozy and elegant all at once. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the smiles it brings around your table!
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Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Delicious Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups combine lean ground turkey with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture, wrapped in tender lasagna noodles and baked with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella for a comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired meal that’s perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Lasagna Noodles
- 12 lasagna noodles
Turkey Mixture
- 1 lb ground turkey
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
Seasonings & Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is at the perfect temperature for baking the lasagna roll-ups.
- Cook Noodles: Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and carefully lay them flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Turkey Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until fully browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked ground turkey until fully incorporated.
- Assemble Roll-Ups: Spread a thin, even layer of the turkey and cheese mixture over each lasagna noodle. Carefully roll up each noodle and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the rolled-up noodles, ensuring they are well coated. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top for a bubbly, golden finish.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve: Allow the roll-ups to cool for a few minutes after baking for easier serving, then serve warm and enjoy your hearty turkey lasagna roll-ups.
Notes
- You can prepare the roll-ups ahead of time and refrigerate before baking for convenience.
- Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this recipe gluten-free if needed.
- For extra flavor, add fresh chopped spinach or basil to the cheese mixture.
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the cooked ground turkey to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
