If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe is your golden ticket. This dish cleverly puts a twist on classic lasagna by rolling the flavorful turkey and creamy cheese filling inside tender lasagna noodles, making every bite as delicious as it is fun to eat. Packed with layers of savory turkey, aromatic herbs, rich cheeses, and tangy marinara, these roll-ups offer a perfect balance of taste and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this dish brings a delightful homemade touch with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe is all about simplicity and quality ingredients that come together beautifully. Each element plays a special role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors, from the hearty ground turkey to the melty cheeses and fragrant herbs that make every bite unforgettable.
- 12 lasagna noodles: Choose good-quality noodles to ensure they hold their shape when rolling and bake to tender perfection.
- 1 lb ground turkey: A lean protein that keeps the dish light yet satisfying, soaking up all the savory spices.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy, smooth texture that’s essential for binding the filling together.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided: Provides ooey-gooey cheesiness, with one cup mixed in and the other sprinkled on top for a golden crust.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, sharp flavor that elevates the fullness of the cheese blend.
- 1 egg, beaten: Acts as a natural binder, helping the filling hold its shape inside the noodles.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Brings vibrant tomato goodness that keeps the roll-ups moist and bursting with flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses savory depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Introduces a sweet, slightly peppery herbal note that’s classic in Italian cooking.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds earthiness and the perfect hint of Mediterranean charm.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors in the dish.
How to Make Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s perfectly hot and ready by the time you’ve assembled your roll-ups. Baking at this temperature ensures the dish cooks evenly and the cheese melts into an irresistible golden topping.
Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Boil your lasagna noodles according to the package directions—usually about 8 to 10 minutes until al dente. Drain them carefully and lay each noodle flat on parchment paper to stop them from sticking together, which will make rolling easier later.
Step 3: Prepare the Ground Turkey
Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then add the ground turkey. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, breaking it into small crumbles as it simmers. Drain any excess fat to keep your recipe from getting greasy, letting the turkey’s savory flavor shine through.
Step 4: Mix the Cheese and Turkey Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the beaten egg, which keeps everything nicely together. Stir in the garlic powder, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper for that classic Italian herbiness, then fold in your cooked turkey. This mixture is creamy, herby, and full of zest—your roll-ups’ heart and soul.
Step 5: Assemble Each Roll-Up
Take each cooked lasagna noodle and spread a thin, even layer of the turkey-cheese mixture down the length of the noodle. Roll it up tightly from one end to the other and place each roll seam-side down in your baking dish, which helps them hold together through baking.
Step 6: Add Marinara and Cheese Topping
Pour your marinara sauce generously over the arranged roll-ups, making sure each one is well coated—you don’t want any dryness here! Finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella on top to create a bubbly, golden cheese crust once baked.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes; this traps moisture and warms the filling through. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes so the top turns beautifully bubbly and golden brown—pure indulgence at its best.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Let the roll-ups cool for a few minutes — this step helps them set so they don’t unravel. Serve them warm and watch smiles light up around your table, as every forkful delivers a cozy, satisfying bite.
How to Serve Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness. A little extra grated Parmesan before serving can add a sharp, inviting finish that complements the melty cheese beautifully.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing your Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in olive oil and lemon. Roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, also make an excellent companion, adding healthy balance and vibrant flavors to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual entertaining, arrange the roll-ups on a rustic wooden board with small dipping bowls of extra marinara or garlic butter sauce. They also work wonderfully plated individually with a drizzle of pesto for an elegant dinner presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover roll-ups in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more overnight, making leftovers a delicious treat and easy reheat the next day.
Freezing
This Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe freezes beautifully. Arrange the roll-ups in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap. They can be frozen for up to 2 months and make a fantastic ready-made meal for busy nights.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated roll-ups in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until heated through, usually about 20 minutes. This keeps them moist and melts the cheese perfectly again, just like fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat instead of ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or lean ground beef are great alternatives that will work well in this recipe, adjusting cooking times slightly if needed.
Do I need to boil the noodles before rolling?
Yes, boiling the noodles makes them soft and pliable, which is essential to roll them up without cracking or breaking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely. Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and double-check that your marinara sauce and seasonings are gluten-free to keep the dish safe for gluten sensitivities.
Is it possible to prepare Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups a day before baking and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Then bake just before serving for fresh and warm results.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese is a common substitute and will give you a similar texture with a slightly different taste, making it a handy swap if you’re out of ricotta.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dinner that brings everyone together with laughter and full bellies, the Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe should be your go-to. It’s a joyful dish to make, bursting with familiar flavors and cozy textures, yet simple enough for any weeknight or special occasion. Don’t wait to try it—once you do, this recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.
Print
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
Description
This Turkey Lasagna Roll-Ups recipe offers a delicious twist on classic lasagna by rolling seasoned ground turkey and a creamy cheese mixture inside tender lasagna noodles. Baked with marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella, it’s a comforting, protein-rich meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Lasagna and Sauce
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Turkey and Cheese Filling
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 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 ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the roll-ups.
- Cook Noodles: Cook lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and carefully lay them flat on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Turkey Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground turkey until it is no longer pink, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the roll-ups lean.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked turkey until well blended.
- Assemble Roll-Ups: Spread a thin, even layer of the turkey and cheese mixture along each lasagna noodle. Starting at one end, carefully roll up each noodle and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the assembled roll-ups, making sure they are well coated. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top for a cheesy finish.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve: Allow the roll-ups to cool for a few minutes to set before serving warm for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
- Use fresh basil and oregano if available for enhanced flavor.
- Make sure noodles are rolled tightly to prevent filling from spilling out during baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
