Name: Lasagna Roll-Ups with Chicken Sausage and Ricotta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 lasagna noodles; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 16 oz ground chicken sausage; 25 oz marinara sauce; 1 tbsp olive oil (divided); 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 24 reviews

If you’re searching for that perfect cozy meal to impress family or friends, this Lasagna Roll-Ups with Chicken Sausage and Ricotta Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender pasta sheets rolled around a rich blend of creamy ricotta, aromatic herbs, and savory chicken sausage, all bathed in luscious marinara and topped with melted mozzarella. This dish balances comforting familiarity with a twist that feels special and homemade, making it ideal for gatherings or an indulgent weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various ingredients for making lasagna spread out on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a clear glass bowl filled with creamy white ricotta cheese with a soft, smooth texture. Around it, there are small white bowls containing grated yellow mozzarella cheese, finely grated pale parmesan cheese, an egg yolk in clear liquid, and dried green herbs. To the right, there is a tall, blue box of lasagna noodles with the word

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, contributing vibrant flavor, creamy texture, or that irresistible gooey cheese pull. Though simple, these ingredients come together beautifully to create a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

12 lasagna noodles: The perfect base that’s tender yet sturdy for rolling and holding all those delicious fillings.

8 oz fresh mozzarella (sliced): Used for a melty, fresh topping that bubbles to golden perfection.
1 tbsp olive oil (divided): Adds just enough richness and helps sauté the sausage without sticking.
16 oz ground chicken sausage: A lean, flavorful protein that’s seasoned perfectly to complement the creamy cheeses.

25 oz marinara sauce: The tomato heart of the dish, bringing acidity and sweetness to balance the richness.
1 tsp dried oregano: Adds a touch of herbal warmth that brightens the ricotta mixture.
1 tsp dried basil: A classic Italian herb adding that unmistakable aromatic hint.

15 oz ricotta: The creamy foundation of the filling, smooth and mild.
1 large egg: Helps bind the ricotta filling for easy rolling and slicing.
2 cups shredded mozzarella: Incorporated into the filling for stretch and gooey cheesiness.

1/2 cup grated parmesan: Adds a nutty, salty kick that deepens the overall flavor profile.

How to Make Lasagna Roll-Ups with Chicken Sausage and Ricotta Recipe

In a clear glass bowl placed on a white marbled surface, different cooking ingredients are layered separately without mixing. There is a base layer of finely grated white cheese on the left side, next to it is a dollop of white creamy substance with a smooth texture on the upper left. On the right side, there is a pile of shredded pale yellow cheese. At the center, resting on the two cheese piles, is one cracked raw egg showing a bright orange yolk. On top of the egg and partially on the white creamy layer, there is a sprinkling of dried green herbs, finely crushed. The light casts shadows around the bowl edge, and the photo looks clear and bright, as if taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Noodles and Prep Oven

Start by cooking your lasagna noodles according to package directions until just al dente. Perfectly cooked noodles ensure your rolls are tender and easy to handle without falling apart. While the noodles cook, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to get it ready for baking these beauties.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Once your noodles are drained and rinsed to stop the cooking, lightly cover the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish with a thin layer of marinara sauce. This base layer prevents sticking and infuses the rolls with extra moisture and flavor from below.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Sausage

In a sauté pan, warm half the olive oil and cook the ground chicken sausage thoroughly, breaking it apart as it browns. Once fully cooked, stir in the remaining marinara sauce so every bite of meat is juicy and saucy — it’s this luscious mixture that makes each roll sing.

Step 4: Make the Ricotta Mixture

While the sausage simmers, mix ricotta, oregano, basil, an egg, shredded mozzarella, and grated parmesan in a large bowl until combined. This creamy filling is seasoned just right to add richness and body to every roll-up.

Step 5: Assemble the Rolls

Lay a cooled lasagna noodle flat on your work surface, spread a generous amount of the ricotta mixture in the center, then top that with a spoonful of the meaty tomato sauce. Carefully roll it up with your hands, then place the roll seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. Repeat this for each noodle, creating a neat lineup of cheesy, saucy rolls.

Step 6: Add Final Touches and Bake

Once all your rolls are snug in the dish, spoon additional marinara sauce over them and place a slice of fresh mozzarella on top of each roll for that irresistible melty crown. Cover the dish with aluminum foil sprayed with nonstick spray to keep the cheese moist, then bake for about 35 minutes. For an extra golden, bubbly finish, remove the foil and pop under the broiler for a few minutes. Let the roll-ups rest for 10 minutes before serving to set beautifully.

How to Serve Lasagna Roll-Ups with Chicken Sausage and Ricotta Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley sprinkled on top add a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the rich flavors. For a little extra zing, a drizzle of good quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes works wonders too.

Side Dishes

Since these lasagna roll-ups are hearty, lighter sides balance the meal perfectly. Think a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables. Garlic bread or a warm focaccia will also complement the Italian vibes without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress your guests even more, serve each roll-up individually plated with a drizzle of extra marinara and a shower of parmesan. You can also arrange them like a lasagna ‘boat’ garnished with little tomato and mozzarella skewers for a fun finger food twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Lasagna roll-ups with chicken sausage and ricotta taste just as delightful the next day. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you reheat, cover with foil to preserve moisture and prevent drying out.

Freezing

These roll-ups freeze beautifully. Assemble the rolls but don’t bake them yet, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil before placing in the freezer. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed for a fresh-from-the-oven experience anytime you crave comfort.

Reheating

For best results, reheat individual servings in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit covered with foil until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Microwave works too, but the oven keeps the texture tender and melty.

FAQs

Do I need to boil the noodles before rolling?

Yes. Boiling the noodles until al dente makes them pliable enough to roll without cracking, which is key for the perfect presentation and texture.

Can I prepare this dish vegetarian?

Of course! You can skip the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even roasted vegetables to the ricotta filling to keep it vegetarian-friendly and delicious.

What if I don’t have fresh mozzarella?

Shredded mozzarella will do the trick just fine in a pinch, although fresh mozzarella offers a creamier melt and more authentic texture.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mildly seasoned and not spicy, but you can always add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy sausage to kick up the heat if you like.

Final Thoughts

This Lasagna Roll-Ups with Chicken Sausage and Ricotta Recipe truly brings a little Italian magic to your kitchen. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that feels homemade and special with every bite. If you love rich cheeses, hearty sausage, and pasta, you absolutely must give this recipe a try – I promise it will become one of your go-to dinners to wow everyone at your table.