If you’re looking for a fun and creative twist on classic lasagna, these Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups are the answer. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of lasagna with a unique rolled presentation, making it perfect for individual servings or a standout dish at a dinner party. Filled with seasoned ground turkey, creamy ricotta, and topped with gooey melted cheese, these roll-ups are guaranteed to impress family and friends alike.
Unlike traditional lasagna, which involves layering ingredients in a large dish, this recipe makes the process more interactive and fun. Each noodle is individually rolled with a delicious filling, creating neat and easy-to-serve portions. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to wow your guests, this recipe is versatile and satisfying. Let’s dive into how to make these delicious turkey lasagna roll-ups.
Ingredients
The ingredients for these lasagna roll-ups are simple yet pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Roll-Ups:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making turkey lasagna roll-ups is a straightforward process that involves cooking, assembling, and baking. Follow these steps to ensure a delicious outcome:
Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Start by cooking the lasagna noodles. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together. Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool. This step ensures they don’t stick together as they cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Ground Turkey
While the noodles are cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and season it with salt and pepper. Cook the turkey, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked. This should take about 6-8 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and set the turkey aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Ricotta Filling
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, basil, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything until it’s well combined. For an extra burst of freshness, you can add a handful of chopped parsley to the filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Roll-Ups
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Lay one cooked lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of the ricotta mixture over the noodle, followed by a small amount of cooked ground turkey. Roll the noodle tightly from one end to the other and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining noodles and filling until all the roll-ups are assembled.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Cheese
Once all the roll-ups are in the baking dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top, ensuring each roll-up is generously covered. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce. This ensures a bubbly, cheesy topping that everyone will love.
Step 6: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake the roll-ups for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and become golden brown. If you prefer an extra crispy cheese topping, you can broil the dish for 1-2 minutes at the end.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and let the roll-ups cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or additional Parmesan cheese, and serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Turkey lasagna roll-ups are versatile and pair well with various sides. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor of garlic bread complements the rich flavors of the roll-ups perfectly.
- Salad: A fresh Caesar salad or mixed greens with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy roll-ups.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are excellent healthy sides.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine, such as a Merlot or Chianti, pairs beautifully with the dish.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ricotta cheese, herbs, and high-quality marinara sauce elevate the flavor of this dish.
- Cook Noodles Properly: Slightly undercooking the noodles ensures they hold their shape during assembly and baking.
- Customize to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings and add your favorite herbs or spices to the filling.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the roll-ups a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Simply bake when ready to serve.
Variations
This recipe is highly adaptable. Here are a few variations to try:
- Vegetarian Roll-Ups: Swap the turkey for sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground turkey for a heat-packed version.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix shredded mozzarella or fontina into the ricotta filling for even more cheesy goodness.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze lasagna roll-ups?
Yes! Lasagna roll-ups freeze beautifully. Assemble the roll-ups in a freezer-safe dish but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire baking dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes.
Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?
Absolutely! While homemade marinara sauce adds a personal touch, a high-quality store-bought option works just as well for convenience.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make this dish lighter, use low-fat ricotta and mozzarella cheese. You can also add more vegetables to the filling for added nutrition.
Conclusion
Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups are a delightful twist on a classic dish. The individual rolls make for easy serving and portion control, while the layers of flavor in the turkey, ricotta, and marinara sauce ensure this dish is as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or a holiday dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it today and enjoy the comforting flavors of lasagna in a fun new way!