These Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups are a fun twist on classic lasagna! Soft noodles are filled with cheese and yummy pepperoni, then rolled up and baked with marinara sauce and more cheese on top.
Who doesn’t love pizza and pasta? It’s like having the best of both worlds! I love making these for pizza night, and they’re perfect for kids—and let’s be honest, adults love them too! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Regular lasagna noodles are perfect here. If you prefer a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free lasagna noodles or use thin slices of zucchini or eggplant as a fun alternative.
Ricotta Cheese: The ricotta adds creaminess. If you need a lighter option, use cottage cheese blended until smooth. You can also substitute with mascarpone or cream cheese for a richer flavor.
Shredded Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella is delicious, but pre-shredded works too for convenience. For a different twist, consider using provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Pepperoni: You can switch out the pepperoni with turkey pepperoni or even cooked sausage slices. For a vegetarian option, try using diced vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture.
How Do You Roll Lasagna Noodles Without Breaking Them?
Rolling lasagna noodles can be tricky, but here are some tips to help you get it right. First, make sure your noodles are cooked al dente so they hold their shape. Avoid overcooking as this makes them too soft and prone to tearing.
- After cooking, lay the noodles flat on a clean towel or parchment paper to cool slightly; this prevents sticking.
- When adding the cheese mixture, spread it evenly but leave space at the edges to avoid overstuffing.
- Start each roll from one end gently, using your hands to guide the noodle tightly but not too tightly to prevent tearing.
With these tips, your roll-ups should maintain their form easily!
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roll Ups:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus extra for topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing the baking dish
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or dried Italian herbs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes for baking, totaling around 45 minutes from start to finish! After you bake, allow it to cool for a few minutes before digging in.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Oven:
First, get your oven ready by preheating it to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Noodles:
Next, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente (cooked but still firm). After cooking, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper so they can cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, the egg, dried Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
4. Assemble the Roll Ups:
Spread a thin layer of marinara or pizza sauce over the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Then, take one lasagna noodle and lay it flat on your work surface. Spread about 1/4 cup of the cheese mixture evenly over the noodle, then place a few slices of pepperoni on top of the cheese.
5. Roll and Place in Dish:
Carefully roll up the noodle starting from one end—just like making a burrito! Place it seam side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining noodles and filling until all are rolled and neatly arranged in the dish.
6. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the rolled-up noodles. Then, sprinkle some extra shredded mozzarella cheese and a few more pepperoni slices on top for that delicious cheesy finish!
7. Bake it Up:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden in spots.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let your delicious roll ups cool for about 5 minutes. You can garnish them with chopped parsley or dried Italian herbs for a lovely touch. Serve them warm and enjoy your delightful Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While ricotta and mozzarella are traditional, feel free to experiment. Cream cheese or cottage cheese can be used instead of ricotta, and provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses can replace mozzarella for added flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or warm them gently in the oven until heated through.
Can I Make These Roll Ups Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the roll ups a day in advance! Just cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. Bake it as instructed when you’re ready to enjoy them, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What If I Don’t Have Marinara Sauce?
No worries! You can easily substitute marinara with any pizza sauce, Alfredo sauce, or even a homemade tomato sauce. Each option will give your roll ups a distinct flavor, so get creative!
