These Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups are a fun twist on classic lasagna! You get cheesy goodness, yummy pepperoni, and a tasty tomato sauce all rolled up in soft pasta.
Making them is a blast! We love how simple they are to assemble, and they bake up perfectly gooey. Plus, everyone gets their own delicious serving—perfect for pizza lovers! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Regular lasagna noodles are perfect here. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free lasagna sheets instead. Just check the cooking time since they may differ.
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness. If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese works well. Just blend it to a smooth consistency before using.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella gives that melty goodness. You can also use provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Pepperoni: For a healthier twist, you could use turkey or chicken pepperoni. Plant-based pepperoni is also available if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought pizza or marinara sauce saves time, but homemade sauce is fantastic if you have the time. You can even spice it up with some Italian herbs.
How Do I Roll Up Lasagna Noodles Without Breaking Them?
Rolling lasagna noodles can be tricky! Here’s how to make it easier: Cook the noodles just until al dente so they’re still firm. This helps prevent breaking when rolling.
- After draining, lay the noodles flat on a baking sheet. This prevents them from sticking together.
- Use a spoon to spread the ricotta mixture evenly across the noodle, leaving some space at the edges—this helps with rolling.
- Start rolling from one end carefully and roll tightly without forcing it. If you notice any cracks, just gently press them together.
With a little practice, you’ll have perfect roll-ups every time!
Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 lasagna noodles
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 60 slices pepperoni (approximately 3 slices per roll-up plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or dried Italian herbs (for garnish, optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes to cook. So, roughly 1 hour total! You’ll have cheesy, pepperoni goodness ready to serve in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
Use a large pot to bring salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook them according to package instructions until they are al dente (still a little firm). After cooking, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a baking sheet to cool slightly. This helps keep them from sticking together.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, the egg, dried Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix it all together until everything is well combined and creamy.
4. Start Assembling:
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Take one lasagna noodle and lay it flat. Spread a generous spoonful of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the noodle. Then, layer about 3 slices of pepperoni on top of the cheese mixture.
5. Roll It Up:
Starting from one end, carefully roll the noodle up with the filling inside. Place the roll-up seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process with all the noodles until they are all rolled and placed in the dish.
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the roll-ups, making sure they’re all nicely covered. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top and add extra pepperoni slices for garnish if you’d like.
7. Bake:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and starting to turn golden brown.
8. Serve:
Once done, let the lasagna roll-ups cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or dried Italian herbs for an extra pop of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy bite!
These Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups are sure to be a hit at any table!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While ricotta and mozzarella are classic choices, you can use cottage cheese in place of ricotta or try a blend of various Italian cheeses for a unique flavor. Just aim for a creamy texture to help bind everything together.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the pepperoni or replacing it with a meat alternative. There are many plant-based pepperoni options available that taste great in this recipe!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Roll Ups?
Yes, these lasagna roll-ups freeze well! To freeze, assemble them without baking and place them in a suitable container or wrap them tightly in foil. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking.