Step 1: Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and lay flat on parchment paper or a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking. This ensures they are pliable enough for rolling.
Step 2: While the noodles cook, prepare your meat sauce. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef or Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat. Add diced onion and minced garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the marinara sauce, dried oregano, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove the bay leaf before using the sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the ricotta cheese mixture. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, fresh chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread about 1 to 1.5 cups of the meat sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. This creates a moist bed for the roll ups and prevents sticking.
Step 5: Assemble the roll-ups. Lay one cooked lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface. Spread about 2-3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture evenly over the entire surface of the noodle, leaving a small border at one end. Then, spread about 2 tablespoons of the meat sauce over the ricotta. Sprinkle with a tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese.
Step 6: Carefully roll the noodle from one short end to the other, creating a tight, neat roll. Place the rolled noodle seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
Step 7: Repeat with the remaining noodles and fillings, arranging all the lasagna roll ups snugly in the baking dish. You may need to use two baking dishes if your noodles are particularly long or if you have extra filling.
Step 8: Pour the remaining meat sauce evenly over the tops of the lasagna roll ups, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle generously with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and a golden crust.
Step 9: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. For an extra golden finish, you can briefly broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 10: Let the lasagna roll ups rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheeses and sauce to set, making them easier to serve and preventing them from falling apart. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.