Lasagna Rolls – Cheesy, Saucy Twist on a Classic Family Favorite

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lasagna Rolls are everything you love about traditional lasagna but with a playful and elegant presentation. Instead of layering pasta sheets, you roll them up with rich filling, cover them in sauce, and bake until bubbly. Each roll is a perfectly portioned serving, making them ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or entertaining guests. They have all the classic flavors—savory marinara, creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and tender pasta—but in a format that feels a little more special. I once tried making these with spinach and mushroom filling, and they turned out so hearty and flavorful that even meat lovers enjoyed them. They are versatile, customizable, and surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you are looking to impress guests or add a fun twist to weeknight dinners, Lasagna Rolls are sure to become a new favorite at your table.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Lasagna noodles – The base of the dish, boiled until al dente and used to hold the filling.

Ricotta cheese – Creamy and mild, it forms the heart of the filling.

Mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully, giving the rolls that irresistible cheesy stretch.

Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty depth to the filling and topping.

Marinara sauce – Provides rich tomato flavor and keeps the rolls moist while baking.

Egg – Helps bind the ricotta filling, ensuring a creamy but firm texture.

Spinach – Optional but adds freshness, color, and extra nutrition.

Ground beef or Italian sausage – Adds savory richness for a heartier filling.

Garlic – Enhances the flavor of both the filling and the sauce.

Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that ties the flavors together.

Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning every layer of the dish.

Fresh basil or parsley – Optional garnish for freshness and color.

Directions

Start by boiling the lasagna noodles until just al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a clean surface to prevent sticking. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a bowl, combine ricotta, half of the mozzarella, parmesan, egg, spinach (if using), garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended. If using meat, cook it separately until browned and drain any excess fat, then stir it into the filling.

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Take each noodle and spread the filling evenly over it. Roll up the noodle carefully and place it seam-side down in the dish. Repeat until all noodles are filled and arranged.

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the rolls, sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and parmesan, and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 8 rolls, serving 4 people generously. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, and baking requires 35 minutes, so the dish is ready in under 1 hour.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. For freezing, assemble the rolls without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F, adding an extra 15 minutes to the cook time.

Variations and Customizations

Vegetarian Lasagna Rolls
Skip the meat and load the filling with spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

Meaty Lasagna Rolls
Use ground beef, sausage, or even shredded chicken for a protein boost.

Cheesy Four-Cheese Rolls
Mix ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and provolone for an ultra-cheesy version.

Pesto Lasagna Rolls
Stir pesto into the ricotta filling for a fresh, herbaceous twist.

Spicy Arrabbiata Rolls
Swap marinara for spicy arrabbiata sauce for a bold, zesty kick.

Gluten-Free Version
Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make the recipe more diet-friendly.

White Sauce Lasagna Rolls
Top with béchamel or Alfredo sauce instead of marinara for a creamy variation.

Low-Carb Rolls
Replace noodles with zucchini slices for a lighter alternative.

Individual Freezer Rolls
Prepare and freeze single servings for easy weeknight dinners.

Seafood Lasagna Rolls
Use shrimp or crab in the filling for a special-occasion twist.

FAQs

Can I make lasagna rolls ahead of time?

Yes, assemble them up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I freeze lasagna rolls?

Yes, freeze before baking for best results. Bake directly from frozen when needed.

What noodles work best?

Classic lasagna noodles, boiled until just tender, work best. Avoid oven-ready noodles.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Yes, omit the meat and use vegetables instead.

How do I prevent noodles from tearing?

Cook them al dente and handle gently when rolling.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, it works well and gives a slightly tangier flavor.

How do I keep the rolls from drying out?

Cover with foil during baking to trap moisture, then uncover at the end for browning.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers make great additions.

What sauce works best?

Marinara is classic, but Alfredo or béchamel also work for variation.

How do I serve lasagna rolls?

Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Lasagna Rolls are a delightful twist on a timeless classic. With their individual portions, cheesy filling, and customizable flavors, they are as fun to make as they are to eat. Perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or make-ahead meals, these rolls bring all the comforting flavors of lasagna in a convenient, elegant format. Once you try them, you may find yourself making this fun variation even more often than traditional lasagna.

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