3-Cheese Sausage Lasagna Roll-Ups

3-Cheese Sausage Lasagna Roll-Ups are a fun and delicious twist on traditional lasagna. These roll-ups are filled with a savory sausage mixture and three types of cheese, rolled up in lasagna noodles, and topped with marinara sauce and more cheese. They make a perfect weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for gatherings!

Ingredients

For the Roll-Ups:

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot)
• 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
• 1 cup chopped spinach for extra greens
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for added flavor

For Garnishing:

• Fresh basil or parsley
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean surface or parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

1. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Remove the sausage from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, ½ cup mozzarella, ½ cup Parmesan, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the cooked sausage to the cheese mixture and mix until evenly distributed.

Step 4: Assemble the Roll-Ups

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.
3. Spread about 3 tablespoons of the sausage and cheese mixture onto each lasagna noodle, spreading it evenly from end to end.
4. Roll up each noodle carefully and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Top with Sauce and Cheese

1. Once all the noodles are rolled and placed in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the roll-ups.
2. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup mozzarella and ½ cup Parmesan over the top.

Step 6: Bake the Roll-Ups

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown slightly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the roll-ups from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot!

Cooking Notes

• Noodles: To make handling the noodles easier, don’t overcook them. Aim for al dente texture so they hold up well during rolling.
• Sauce: Feel free to use homemade marinara sauce or your favorite jarred variety for convenience.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Lasagna Roll-Ups

Omit the sausage and replace it with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or other vegetables for a meatless version of these roll-ups.

2. Spicy Sausage Roll-Ups

Use hot Italian sausage and add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for an extra kick of heat.

3. Cheesy Alfredo Roll-Ups

Replace the marinara sauce with Alfredo sauce for a creamy and indulgent variation. Add spinach or broccoli for extra veggies.

4. Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups

Swap the sausage for cooked, shredded chicken. You can also add pesto to the cheese mixture for a flavor boost.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make 3-Cheese Sausage Lasagna Roll-Ups ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the roll-ups and store them in the refrigerator (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake them when ready to serve.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze lasagna roll-ups?
Yes, lasagna roll-ups freeze well. Assemble the roll-ups, but don’t bake them. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Q: Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! You can substitute or add cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.

These 3-Cheese Sausage Lasagna Roll-Ups are a delicious and hearty meal that’s fun to make and perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy ricotta, savory sausage, and rich marinara sauce makes for a comforting and satisfying dish. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting guests, these roll-ups are sure to be a hit!