Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe (with Video)

Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe: Lasagna roll ups are like the cool younger sibling of the classic lasagna—fun, neatly portioned, and absolutely irresistible. If you love traditional lasagna but want something that’s easier to serve, quicker to bake, and way less messy, this recipe is about to become your new favorite. Instead of layering everything in a big dish, you take individual lasagna noodles, fill them with cheesy goodness, roll them up, and bake them in marinara sauce topped with more cheese. It’s comfort food magic.

What makes them stand out? First, they’re perfect for portion control. Each roll up is a delicious, cheesy bundle, which means no more slicing through layers of a big, baked block of pasta. They’re also super versatile. Whether you want to keep it vegetarian, go meat-heavy, or even sneak in some greens for the kiddos, you’ve got options. Think of them as lasagna pinwheels—less time-consuming and totally customizable.

Let’s dive into the step-by-step breakdown of how to make the perfect lasagna roll ups from scratch. You don’t need to be a kitchen pro—just bring your appetite and a little patience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the process, gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for a basic yet delicious version of lasagna roll ups.

For the Filling

• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup chopped spinach (fresh or frozen and drained)

For the Sauce

• 3 cups marinara or pasta sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a kick
• 1 tsp sugar (if the sauce is too tangy)

For the Roll Ups

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

These ingredients cover the classic version. If you want to include meat or other custom touches, you’ll have options in the later sections.

How to Make Lasagna Roll Ups – Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Preparing the Lasagna Noodles

The foundation of your lasagna roll ups is the noodle, and getting this part right is essential. Here’s how to do it:

1. Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to flavor the noodles.
2. Cook the Noodles: Drop in the lasagna noodles one at a time to prevent sticking. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8–10 minutes until al dente.
3. Drain and Cool: Once cooked, carefully drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean surface or parchment paper. If you let them pile up, they’ll stick together and tear when you try to roll them.
4. Pro Tip: Add a tiny drizzle of olive oil after draining to keep them from sticking.

Make sure the noodles are cool enough to handle before you move on. You want them soft, flexible, and unbroken.

Step 2: Making the Ricotta Cheese Filling

Now comes the heart of the dish—the creamy, cheesy filling. This is where all the flavor lives.

1. Mix It Up: In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
2. Optional Add-In: If you’re using spinach, make sure it’s well-drained before mixing it in. It adds a nice pop of green and a bit of nutrition without changing the flavor too much.
3. Taste Test: Give the filling a quick taste before adding the egg. Adjust salt and spices as needed.
4. Texture Check: The filling should be creamy but thick enough to stay in place when spread on the noodles.

This mixture will give you that rich, savory filling that makes lasagna so comforting. Don’t skimp on the cheese—this is where the magic begins!

Step 3: Preparing the Meat (Optional)

If you want a meatier lasagna roll up, now’s the time to prep your protein. You can use ground beef, Italian sausage, turkey, or even a plant-based meat substitute.

1. Brown the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, add your ground meat. Break it up with a spatula and cook until fully browned.
2. Season Well: Add salt, pepper, garlic, and Italian seasoning to taste. Some like to toss in a bit of crushed red pepper for heat.
3. Drain the Fat: After cooking, drain the excess fat to avoid greasy roll ups.
4. Combine with Sauce: You can mix the cooked meat with half of your marinara sauce. This adds extra flavor and ensures the meat doesn’t dry out during baking.

While optional, meat adds a savory, hearty bite that balances beautifully with the creamy cheese and tender noodles.

Step 4: Layering with Sauce

Before you start rolling, you need to prep your baking dish. Here’s how to lay the groundwork:

1. Base Layer of Sauce: Pour a cup of your marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish. Spread it evenly to prevent the noodles from sticking.
2. Why This Matters: This sauce layer acts like a cushion, keeping your roll ups moist as they bake. No dry bottoms here.
3. Use Meat Sauce if Preferred: If you combined meat with your sauce earlier, use that here for an extra punch of flavor.

Once your dish is ready, you’re set to move on to the fun part—rolling!

Step 5: Rolling the Lasagna Noodles

Rolling lasagna noodles is easier than it sounds—and honestly, it’s kind of fun!

1. Spread the Filling: Lay one noodle flat and spread a generous layer of the ricotta mixture along its length. Aim for an even layer, about ¼ inch thick.
2. Add Meat (Optional): If using meat, add a spoonful over the cheese mixture.
3. Roll It Up: Starting from one end, gently roll the noodle into a tight spiral. Don’t press too hard or the filling will squeeze out.
4. Place in Dish: Set the roll seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.

Repeat with the rest of the noodles. You’ll typically get 10–12 roll ups depending on how much filling you use.

Step 6: Assembling the Roll Ups in a Baking Dish

Now that your roll ups are neatly placed seam-side down in the dish, it’s time to finish assembling this masterpiece before it heads to the oven.

1. Add More Sauce: Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the roll ups. Be generous—you want each roll fully coated to keep the noodles moist and bursting with flavor.
2. Extra Cheese Layer: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top of the sauce. Add a little more Parmesan if you’re a cheese lover (which, let’s be honest, who isn’t when it comes to lasagna?).
3. Optional Additions: Want to elevate it further? Add a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil, oregano, or even red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
4. Cover the Dish: Tightly cover the dish with aluminum foil to help trap moisture and melt the cheese evenly in the first part of baking.

When the dish is fully assembled, it should look like a cozy, cheesy blanket of goodness—ready to be transformed into golden perfection.

Step 7: Baking the Lasagna Roll Ups

Time to turn on the heat—literally! Baking is where all your prep comes together in one glorious, bubbling finale.

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully preheat.
2. Baking Time: Bake covered for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
3. Check for Bubbling: You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce around the edges starts bubbling, and the cheese on top is melted and slightly browned.
4. Let It Rest: Once out of the oven, let the roll ups rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps everything set and keeps the rolls from falling apart on the plate.

Your kitchen will smell like an Italian restaurant, and your roll ups will be ooey, gooey, and ready to impress!

Step 8: Serving Suggestions

You’ve made your roll ups, now it’s time to plate them like a pro and choose the perfect sides to match.

1. Plating the Roll Ups: Use a spatula to lift each roll up gently from the dish. Place them in the center of a plate and spoon some of the sauce from the pan over the top.
2. Garnish Like a Chef: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil and a little extra Parmesan for that final touch.
3. What to Serve With Lasagna Roll Ups:
   • Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside, soft inside—perfect for mopping up sauce.
   • Caesar Salad: A fresh, crunchy contrast to the cheesy richness.
   • Steamed Veggies: Think broccoli, green beans, or zucchini.
   • Roasted Asparagus: A light, savory side to balance the flavors.
4. Wine Pairing: If you enjoy wine, a glass of red like Chianti or a light Merlot pairs beautifully.

Lasagna roll ups are hearty enough to stand alone but shine even brighter with the right sides.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about this recipe? You can totally make it your own.

Vegetarian Version

• Skip the meat entirely and stick with a spinach and cheese filling.
• You can also use roasted mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a meaty texture without the meat.

Protein Swaps

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even spicy Italian sausage.
• Want to keep it plant-based? Try lentils or vegan meat crumbles.

Cheesy Twists

• Add provolone, fontina, or gouda to the filling for a different cheesy flavor.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a bit of mascarpone or cream cheese with the ricotta.

Spicy Kick

• Add chili flakes to your cheese mix or sauce.
• Toss in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat lovers.

No matter your taste preferences, these roll ups are a blank canvas for creativity!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Roll Ups

Even though the recipe is pretty straightforward, a few insider tips can take your dish from good to chef’s kiss.

1. Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Slightly undercooked (al dente) noodles roll better and don’t tear as easily.
2. Cool the Noodles Flat: Lay them out immediately after boiling. A tangled pile will lead to frustration and ripped noodles.
3. Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to go all-in with the cheese, but too much filling can cause your roll ups to burst during baking.
4. Use Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley at the end adds brightness and elevates presentation.
5. Let Them Rest Before Serving: Hot out of the oven, they can fall apart easily. Give them 5–10 minutes to set and you’ll get perfect rolls every time.
6. Double the Recipe for Leftovers: They reheat beautifully and are perfect for lunch the next day—or the next three days.

Storage and Reheating Tips

So, you’ve made a big batch of lasagna roll ups—now what? Luckily, these beauties store and reheat like a dream, making them ideal for meal prep or next-day leftovers.

Storing in the Fridge

• Cool First: Let the roll ups cool completely at room temperature before storing.
• Airtight Container: Transfer them to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
• Shelf Life: They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze Before or After Baking: You can assemble the roll ups and freeze them unbaked, or freeze leftovers after they’re cooked.
• Individual Portions: For convenience, wrap each roll up separately in plastic wrap, then foil. This makes it easy to pull out a single portion.
• Use Within 3 Months: For best flavor and texture, enjoy within three months of freezing.

Reheating Tips

• Microwave: Heat individual portions for 2–3 minutes. Add a splash of water or sauce to keep them from drying out.
• Oven: Reheat in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes until hot and bubbly.

Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or storing leftovers, lasagna roll ups are as freezer-friendly as they are delicious.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

Want to know what’s going into your belly? Here’s a general idea of the nutritional content per roll up. Keep in mind this can vary based on the ingredients you use (especially if you add meat or veggies).

Nutrient	Amount (Per Roll Up)
Calories	320–380 kcal
Protein	17–22 g
Carbohydrates	25–30 g
Fat	15–18 g
Saturated Fat	7–9 g
Fiber	2–4 g
Sugar	4–6 g
Sodium	500–650 mg

If you’re watching your macros or counting calories, you can adjust ingredients accordingly—low-fat cheese, whole wheat noodles, or veggie-based fillings can lighten things up without sacrificing flavor.

FAQs about Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe

What are Lasagna Roll Ups?

Lasagna Roll Ups are a creative twist on traditional lasagna. Instead of layering noodles with cheese, meat, and sauce, each noodle is individually spread with fillings, rolled up, and then baked with sauce and cheese on top. This method offers a neat, portion-controlled way of serving lasagna.

How do you prevent Lasagna Roll Ups from falling apart?

To keep your Lasagna Roll Ups intact, make sure to cook the noodles until they are just al dente. Overcooked noodles can tear easily. Spread a thin layer of filling over each noodle and roll them tightly. Place the roll ups seam-side down in the baking dish to help them stay rolled.

Can you make Lasagna Roll Ups ahead of time?

Yes, Lasagna Roll Ups are perfect for making ahead. You can prepare and assemble them a day in advance, cover the dish with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, just bake them according to the recipe instructions. They can also be frozen for up to three months.

Are Lasagna Roll Ups suitable for vegetarians?

Absolutely! To make vegetarian Lasagna Roll Ups, simply substitute the meat in the filling with a mixture of vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini, or use a plant-based meat alternative.

What sides go well with Lasagna Roll Ups?

Classic sides that pair wonderfully with Lasagna Roll Ups include a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. For a lighter touch, consider a side of fresh fruit or a simple arugula salad.

How long do you bake Lasagna Roll Ups?

Typically, Lasagna Roll Ups need to bake covered in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 25 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles for Roll Ups?

No-boil lasagna noodles are not recommended for roll ups because they need more moisture to cook properly than what is typically required for roll ups. It’s best to use traditional, boil-before-use lasagna noodles for this dish.

Conclusion

There you have it—a step-by-step guide to making mouthwatering, cheesy, and totally satisfying lasagna roll ups. This dish is the perfect combo of comfort food and crowd-pleaser, great for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or meal prepping your week with ease.

What makes these roll ups truly shine is their flexibility. You can tailor the filling, sauce, and toppings to fit your tastes, dietary needs, or whatever you’ve got in the fridge. Whether you’re sticking to classic Italian flavors or mixing in some modern twists, this recipe is a winner every time.

So, go ahead and try it out. Roll, bake, serve, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow. Once you make these, traditional lasagna might just become a thing of the past.