These Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups are a fun twist on classic lasagna! With cheesy goodness, savory pepperoni, and flavorful marinara sauce, they bring all your pizza favorites into every bite.
Making these is like turning a regular lasagna into a tasty, rolled-up treat. I love serving them with a side salad for a bit of crunch. You won’t want to miss out on these cheesy wonders! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: You can use regular lasagna noodles or try whole wheat for a healthier option. Even gluten-free noodles work if you have dietary needs—just follow the package instructions for cooking.
Ricotta Cheese: This adds creaminess. If you’re after a lighter option, cottage cheese can be a great substitute. Just blend it a bit to smooth out the texture.
Cheeses: Besides mozzarella, you might love using provolone or even some cheddar for extra flavor. It’s always fun to experiment with different kinds!
Pepperoni: You can swap pepperoni with turkey pepperoni for a lighter version or go with salami if you want a different taste. Veggie options, like sliced mushrooms or bell peppers, also work nicely.
Marinara Sauce: If you don’t have marinara, any pasta sauce will do. A pesto sauce can add a unique twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
How Do I Roll the Lasagna Noodles Without Breaking Them?
Getting the lasagna noodles to roll up nicely can be tricky. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure not to overcook the noodles; you want them al dente. This helps them hold together when you roll them.
- Let the noodles cool slightly. If they are too hot, they might tear.
- Place the filling gently and don’t overfill it. Spread your cheese mixture evenly, leaving some room at the edges to roll.
- Start rolling from one end carefully, keeping the filling tightly packed as you go. If you feel resistance, adjust gently to avoid tearing.
With these tips, you should have perfectly rolled lasagna noodles ready to bake!
Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roll Ups:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 20-25 slices pepperoni
For the Marinara:
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or dried basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus around 35 minutes to bake. You’ll spend some time boiling and cooling the noodles, mixing the filling, and rolling everything up. Once it’s in the oven, you’ll have a wonderful aroma filling your kitchen in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Noodles:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente, then drain them well. To prevent sticking, lay the noodles flat on a clean kitchen towel to cool while you prepare the filling.
2. Making the Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan, egg, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a dash of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well-blended. This cheesy mixture will be packed with flavor!
3. Assembling the Roll Ups:
Spread about 1/4 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Now, take one lasagna noodle and lay it flat. Spread approximately 2-3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture across the noodle, making sure to cover it well. Then, layer on 2-3 slices of pepperoni.
4. Rolling the Noodle:
Start from one end of the noodle and carefully roll it up tightly. Place the roll seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining noodles, cheese mixture, and pepperoni until you have a full dish of delicious roll ups!
5. Baking the Dish:
Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the tops of the roll ups. Sprinkle the last 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce. If you like, add a few more pepperoni slices on top for extra flavor. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
6. Finishing Touches:
After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once done, let the roll ups rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or dried basil if you wish for a touch of color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups are ready! Serve them warm, and enjoy this delightful blend of pizza flavors in a comforting lasagna form!
Can I Use No-Cook Lasagna Noodles for This Recipe?
Absolutely! No-cook lasagna noodles can be a convenient option. Just layer them directly in the baking dish as directed, but add a bit more marinara sauce on top to ensure they cook through properly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the pepperoni and substitute with your favorite vegetables! Sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach make delicious add-ins.
Can I Freeze Leftover Roll Ups?
Yes, you can freeze these Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups! Let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups?
A side salad or some garlic bread pairs perfectly with this dish! You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
