Baked Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting Italian classic with a fun twist, these Baked Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups are exactly what you need. Picture tender lasagna noodles rolled around a creamy, flavorful mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and seasoned ground turkey, all nestled beneath a blanket of rich marinara sauce and golden melted cheese. This dish takes the best parts of traditional lasagna and turns them into perfectly portioned, crowd-pleasing roll-ups that are as delightful to eat as they are to serve. Every bite bursts with layers of cheesy, savory goodness that make it an instant favorite at any dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a key role in creating layers of texture and flavor, from the tender noodles to the aromatic herbs. The combination keeps things simple yet deeply satisfying, allowing the turkey to take center stage without overwhelming the palate.

• 12 lasagna noodles: Cooked and ready to roll, these form the perfect base for your delicious fillings.
• 1 pound ground turkey: A lean protein option that brings heartiness and a mild flavor.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creamy richness and helps bind the filling.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: For that dreamy melt and gooey texture.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Packs a punch of nutty, salty flavor to complement the other cheeses.
• 1 egg, beaten: Acts as a binder helping hold the filling together during baking.
• 2 cups marinara sauce: The delicious tomato sauce that keeps the roll-ups moist and flavorful.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a warm aroma and subtle garlicky depth.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings an herby sweetness that brightens the dish.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds classic Italian earthiness and complexity.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance all flavors.

How to Make Baked Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Noodles

First things first, preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). While it warms, cook your lasagna noodles according to the package instructions so they’re tender but still sturdy enough to roll. Once cooked, carefully drain and spread them flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking and make rolling easier.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey

Heat up a large skillet over medium heat and add your ground turkey. Break the meat apart with your spatula and cook until it’s no longer pink, which usually takes about 7 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat after cooking—you want lean, flavorful turkey filling without extra grease.

Step 3: Mix the Cheesy Filling

In a roomy mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, and the beaten egg. Season this mixture with garlic powder, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to create a fragrant, savory base. Then gently fold in the cooked ground turkey—this filling is what makes each roll-up so satisfying.

Step 4: Assemble the Roll-Ups

Spread a thin, even layer of the turkey-cheese mixture onto each noodle. Be generous but careful not to overfill, so rolling remains manageable. Starting at one end, carefully roll up each noodle and place them seam-side down in your prepared baking dish, arranging them snugly side-by-side for even cooking.

Step 5: Layer with Sauce and Cheese

Now it’s time to pour the marinara sauce over all your beautiful roll-ups, ensuring they’re covered completely to keep them juicy and flavorful as they bake. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella generously over the top for that irresistible melted cheese crust everyone loves.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes to let everything meld together. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes until the cheese bubbles and turns that gorgeous golden brown that signals the dish is ready to devour.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the Baked Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups to sit for a few minutes out of the oven so they set up a bit, making them easier to serve and enjoy. Grab a serving spatula and get ready to dig into cheesy, meaty comfort heaven!

How to Serve Baked Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups

Garnishes

Simple garnishes go a long way with these roll-ups. Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley add a pop of color and freshness. You can also offer crushed red pepper flakes or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for those who love a little extra kick or richness.

Side Dishes

To round out your meal, serve this dish alongside a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette—it contrasts beautifully with the richness of the roll-ups. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette is also a delicious companion to mop up any leftover marinara sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a visually impressive presentation, place the roll-ups in individual ramekins and bake, or arrange them on a large platter with alternating dollops of sauce and fresh herbs. They also make fantastic party appetizers; simply scale down the portions and serve with toothpicks for easy handheld enjoyment.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for 3 to 4 days and continue to taste fantastic when reheated properly.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! After assembling the roll-ups but before baking, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a little extra time if still partially frozen.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through and bubbly, usually about 15 to 20 minutes. Cover with foil at first to prevent over-browning, then remove foil near the end to revive that lovely melted cheese topping.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken works just as well and offers a similarly mild flavor. Make sure to cook it thoroughly and drain any excess fat for best results.

Do I have to cook the lasagna noodles before rolling?

Yes, cooking the noodles first until al dente is important to ensure they’re pliable enough to roll without cracking or breaking during assembly.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the ground turkey and add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the cheese mixture for a flavorful vegetarian version.

What’s the best way to prevent the noodles from sticking together?

After cooking, lay each noodle flat on parchment paper or a lightly oiled surface. You can also toss them with a tiny bit of olive oil to keep them separated while you prepare the filling.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the cheeses?

Yes, you can substitute ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based cheeses available in most grocery stores. Just be mindful that the texture and flavor may vary slightly but it still makes a lovely dish.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting and joyful about these Baked Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups that makes them a wonderful dish to bring to any table. Easy to prepare yet bursting with flavors, they transform a classic into bite-sized delights sure to impress family and friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try soon—once you take that first cheesy, savory bite, I’m confident it’ll become one of your go-to weeknight favorites!

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