These Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups are a fun twist on classic lasagna! You’ll love the layers of pasta, cheese, pepperoni, and marinara sauce all rolled up into tasty bites.
It’s like pizza and lasagna had a delicious baby! I can’t resist adding extra cheese on top. Who can say no to gooey, melty goodness? Perfect for a cozy dinner night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: You can use regular lasagna noodles or for a quicker option, try no-boil noodles. They cook right in the sauce, which saves time!
Ricotta Cheese: This adds creaminess but you can swap it for cottage cheese for a lighter option. Just blend it to a smoother texture beforehand.
Pepperoni: If you want to keep it meat-free, try using vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms instead. For a healthier twist, turkey pepperoni is a great substitute too.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is fine but homemade adds a personal touch. You can even use pesto or Alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile.
What’s the Best Way to Roll Lasagna Noodles?
Rolling lasagna noodles might seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think! Here’s how to ensure your roll-ups don’t fall apart:
- Cook noodles until just al dente so they’re flexible without breaking.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly, but leave a little space on the edges for easier rolling.
- Start from one end and roll tightly without forcing it. A firm but gentle hand keeps everything intact.
Give each roll a little squeeze to ensure all ingredients stick together nicely. Happy rolling!
Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roll Ups:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano and basil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 30-36 slices pepperoni (about 3-4 slices per roll-up)
For the Sauce:
- 2 1/2 cups marinara sauce, divided
For Garnish (Optional):
- Dried parsley or oregano for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to bake. Allow yourself about 45 minutes total to enjoy these cheesy delights from prep to table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente (slightly firm). Drain them carefully and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper to cool while you prepare the filling.
3. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, the egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely combined and creamy.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Spread about ½ cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. This will help keep the roll-ups moist while baking.
5. Assemble the Roll Ups:
Take one lasagna noodle and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spread an even layer of the cheese mixture over the noodle, but leave a small border around the edges. Top with 3-4 slices of pepperoni.
6. Roll It Up:
Starting from one end, carefully roll the noodle tightly up towards the other end. Place the rolled noodle seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining noodles, cheese mixture, and pepperoni slices.
7. Add Sauce and Cheese Topping:
Once all your roll-ups are snugly in the dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top. Finish by sprinkling the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese across the entire dish.
8. Bake:
Bake the roll-ups uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through. Keep an eye on it so the cheese doesn’t get too brown!
9. Cool and Garnish:
When done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with dried parsley or oregano if you like!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve these warm, cheesy roll-ups to your friends and family, and watch them disappear! Enjoy every delicious bite of your Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Lasagna Noodles?
Absolutely! Whole wheat lasagna noodles can add extra fiber and a nutty flavor. For gluten-free options, look for gluten-free lasagna noodles made from rice or quinoa. Just ensure to follow the cooking instructions on the package as they might differ slightly from regular noodles.
How Can I Make These Roll Ups Vegetarian?
To make these lasagna roll-ups vegetarian, simply omit the pepperoni and replace it with your favorite vegetables! Spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini slices work wonderfully and add delicious flavors.
Can I Prepare the Roll Ups Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the roll-ups up to a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, remove from the fridge, let it sit for about 20 minutes to come to room temperature, and then bake as directed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave each roll-up until warmed through, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to keep them moist.