These Cheese Sausage Lasagna Roll-Ups are a fun and delicious twist on traditional lasagna. Each noodle is rolled up with a savory blend of ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian sausage, then baked in marinara sauce until bubbling and golden. Perfectly portioned and packed with flavor, these roll-ups are ideal for weeknight dinners or make-ahead meals the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Family-friendly and freezer-friendly
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Easier to assemble and serve than traditional layered lasagna
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High in protein and calcium
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Loaded with gooey, cheesy goodness
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Makes an impressive yet simple weeknight dinner
Ingredients Breakdown:
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12 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained – Serve as the perfect vessel for the cheesy sausage filling, making the dish easy to portion and serve.
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1 pound Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled – Adds hearty, savory flavor with a hint of spice that complements the rich cheeses.
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1 cup ricotta cheese – Creamy and mild, ricotta provides a smooth base for the filling.
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for that classic cheesy stretch.
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and helps balance the richness.
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1 large egg, beaten – Binds the filling together for a creamy, cohesive texture.
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2 cups marinara sauce – Offers a tangy tomato base that ties all the flavors together.
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – Adds freshness and a pop of color to the filling.
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1 teaspoon dried basil – Infuses the filling with aromatic Italian flavor.
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory depth without overpowering the dish.
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Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for balancing and brightening all the ingredients.
Tips and Tricks
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No-boil noodles work great—just soak in hot water until pliable.
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Make ahead: Assemble the roll-ups and refrigerate overnight or freeze for later.
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Use spicy Italian sausage for a flavor kick.
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Add spinach or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian: Skip the sausage and use sautéed zucchini or mushrooms.
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Low-Carb: Swap noodles for thinly sliced zucchini strips.
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Four-Cheese: Add provolone or fontina to the cheese mix.
Pairing Suggestions
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Sides: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze unbaked roll-ups tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.
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Reheat: Microwave individual portions or bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Popular Questions
Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, just drain it well for best texture.
Can this be made in advance?
Absolutely! Assemble the roll-ups a day ahead and bake when ready.
How do I prevent sticking?
Lightly oil the bottom of the baking dish and space the roll-ups slightly apart.