If you are searching for a comforting twist on a classic Italian favorite, this Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe is an absolute winner. Combining tender ground turkey with creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheeses wrapped in perfectly cooked lasagna noodles, each roll-up bursts with flavor and has a wonderful texture that will delight your entire family. The hearty marinara sauce brings it all together, making this dish a satisfying meal that’s both impressive and easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for weeknight dinners or a small gathering, this Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe will quickly become one of your go-to recipes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple and essential ingredients that each play a starring role. From the lean ground turkey adding protein and savoriness to the creamy cheeses creating luscious richness, each element contributes to both the taste and texture of the dish.
- 12 lasagna noodles: These provide the perfect structure to roll all the delicious fillings inside.
- 1 lb ground turkey: A lean yet flavorful protein that keeps the dish hearty without being heavy.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creamy, mild tanginess that binds the filling ingredients together.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Melts beautifully and offers that irresistible gooey texture—you’ll use half inside the filling and half on top.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty punch enhancing flavor complexity.
- 1 egg, beaten: Helps to hold the cheese and turkey mixture firm for easy rolling.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: A rich, slightly sweet tomato sauce to cover the roll-ups and keep them moist during baking.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a warm, aromatic depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Brings a subtle herbal fragrance that pairs perfectly with tomato.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Offers classic Italian flavor notes to enhance the filling.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
How to Make Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s fully heated when it’s time to bake the roll-ups, giving you crispy edges and gooey cheesy tops.
Step 2: Cook the noodles
Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain them carefully and lay them flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking—this step is key to making beautiful roll-ups that don’t tear.
Step 3: Prepare the turkey mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from feeling greasy, allowing the turkey’s flavor to shine.
Step 4: Mix the cheese filling
In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, the beaten egg, garlic powder, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir this well to create a creamy base, then fold in the cooked turkey until everything is evenly combined—a luscious, savory filling that’s so tempting.
Step 5: Assemble the roll-ups
Spread a thin layer of the turkey and cheese filling onto each lasagna noodle. Then gently roll each noodle up from one end to the other, placing each seam-side down in a prepared baking dish. This method ensures they hold their shape during baking.
Step 6: Sauce and cheese topping
Pour marinara sauce generously over the assembled roll-ups, coating every one. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly on top to create a golden, bubbly crust once baked.
Step 7: Bake until bubbly
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to steam everything perfectly. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to let the cheese brown and bubble beautifully. This final step brings together the flavors in one unforgettable dish.
Step 8: Serve warm
Allow the roll-ups to cool for a few minutes once out of the oven. This resting time helps them set slightly, making them easier to serve and enjoy immediately—trust me, they disappear fast!
How to Serve Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley adds a refreshing pop of color and herbaceous aroma. For a little extra flair, a dusting of grated Parmesan over the top just before serving elevates presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
Pair these roll-ups with a crisp garden salad or garlic bread for a classic Italian dinner experience. A simple Caesar salad or roasted seasonal veggies also complement the rich, cheesy filling perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving each roll-up individually on plates with a drizzle of extra marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Alternatively, arrange them on a large platter for a family-style meal that invites sharing and conversation over every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, you can store leftover Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They keep their flavors and texture beautifully, making them ideal for next-day meals.
Freezing
This Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe freezes wonderfully. Place individual roll-ups in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. When you want a quick meal, just thaw and reheat.
Reheating
Reheat leftover roll-ups in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to retain moisture for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave them covered in short bursts until warmed through. This helps maintain the creamy texture without drying out the noodles.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works well as a substitute in this recipe and will produce a similar flavor and texture, though turkey offers a slightly richer taste.
Do I need to boil the noodles before assembling?
Yes, boiling the noodles until al dente is important. It makes them flexible enough to roll without cracking or breaking and ensures they cook fully when baked in the dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can swap the ground turkey with sautéed mushrooms, finely chopped spinach, or a plant-based ground meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian version that still keeps the hearty texture.
What type of marinara sauce should I use?
Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce. A simple sauce with fresh tomato flavor and herbs works best to complement the fillings without overpowering them.
How can I make this recipe lower in calories?
To lighten the dish, choose part-skim ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, use less cheese overall, and opt for a low-sodium, sugar-free marinara sauce. You can also add finely chopped vegetables to bulk up the filling with fewer calories.
Final Thoughts
This Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe is a wonderful way to put a fresh spin on an old favorite while still delivering the comforting, cheesy goodness you crave. It’s approachable enough for busy weeknights but special enough to impress guests. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do—once you try it, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
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Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups offer a delightful twist on traditional lasagna by combining lean ground turkey with a creamy cheese filling, all wrapped in tender lasagna noodles and baked with marinara sauce. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this recipe is flavorful, satisfying, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Lasagna Roll-Ups
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Seasonings
- 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 get it ready for baking the roll-ups later.
- Cook Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain and carefully lay the noodles flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Turkey Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until fully cooked and no longer pink, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, the beaten egg, garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked ground turkey until everything is well mixed.
- Assemble Roll-Ups: Spread a thin, even layer of the turkey and cheese mixture over each lasagna noodle. Roll each noodle up tightly and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the roll-ups, ensuring they are well coated. Then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top for a bubbly, cheesy finish.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Serve: Allow the roll-ups to cool for a few minutes before serving warm to enjoy the flavors at their best.
Notes
- Use parchment paper to prevent the noodles from sticking together after boiling.
- You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or lean beef if preferred.
- For extra flavor, add some chopped fresh spinach or mushrooms to the cheese mixture.
- Covering the dish while baking ensures the roll-ups stay moist and the cheese melts evenly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
