Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups

Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups are pure comfort food rolled into one fun dish I turn to this recipe whenever the family is craving something cheesy and saucy but with a twist It captures all the flavors of classic pizza baked into easy to serve lasagna rolls that make weeknight dinners exciting and hassle free

I first whipped up these roll ups on a night when we were torn between lasagna and pizza and now they are constantly requested because there are rarely ever leftovers

Ingredients

• Lasagna noodles: Cooked just until tender so they roll easily but do not fall apart Choose noodles that are sturdy and do not overcook
• Marinara or spaghetti sauce: Brings tanginess and ties everything together Look for a jar with few added sugars and bold tomato flavor
• Ricotta cheese: Creates that creamy layer Choose whole milk ricotta for best texture
• Mozzarella cheese: Freshly shredded melts beautifully and gives the gooey cheesy pizza experience
• Pepperoni slices: Deliver that classic pizza taste opt for a package with minimal grease for the best results
• Onion powder: Adds a hint of savory depth to the ricotta mixture
• Garlic powder: Delivers subtle warmth and aroma
• Italian seasoning: Brings herby notes for that authentic pizzeria taste
• Fresh parsley (optional): For a touch of color and freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Noodles:

Boil lasagna noodles in a large pot with plenty of salted water until just tender This usually takes about eight to ten minutes Stir them occasionally to prevent sticking Immediately drain and lay flat on a cutting board or baking sheet so they do not stick together or tear

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Heat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Lightly spray a thirteen by nine inch glass baking dish with cooking spray This keeps the rolls from sticking and makes cleanup easy Next spread a thin layer of marinara or spaghetti sauce over the bottom from edge to edge

Mix the Ricotta Filling:

In a medium mixing bowl combine ricotta cheese onion powder garlic powder and Italian seasoning Use a spatula to stir until completely smooth This ensures every bite is flavorful and creamy

Spread and Top Each Noodle:

With a cookie scoop or spoon add a mound of ricotta filling to each noodle Gently use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the mixture from end to end Then layer about eight to ten pepperoni slices on top evenly along each noodle

Roll Up the Noodles:

Starting at one end roll each noodle up tightly so the filling stays in place Arrange them seam side down in your prepared baking dish

Layer with Cheese and Sauce:

Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of the rolls Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese all over making sure every roll is generously covered

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Bake uncovered for fifteen to twenty minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling Remove when the top reaches a light golden brown

Finish and Serve:

Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning right before serving Try them with cheddar garlic biscuits and a green salad for a full meal

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I always look forward to using the good block mozzarella because freshly shredded cheese melts so perfectly It reminds me of Sunday dinners growing up when the smell of baking cheese meant everyone would gather at the table

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate up to a week For reheating microwaving individual portions works in about a minute but for the best texture reheat in the oven at three hundred fifty degrees for ten minutes You can freeze baked roll ups for up to three months I usually thaw overnight then bake twenty minutes but you can reheat frozen for two hours covered with foil

Ingredient Substitutions

Try cottage cheese in place of ricotta if you like a saltier tang Or use sliced turkey for a lighter meat topping Veggies like sautéed mushrooms bell peppers or spinach can be tucked inside too If you want to skip the pepperoni use cooked crumbled sausage for a twist

Serving Suggestions

Serve these roll ups hot with extra marinara sauce on the side My family loves dipping garlic knots or a hunk of crusty bread into the extra sauce For a fresh balance add a simple salad with crisp greens tomatoes and a lemon vinaigrette

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Cultural Context

Lasagna roll ups are a playful American twist on traditional Italian casseroles They keep the tender noodle-cheese-sauce trio but their pizza inspiration makes them instantly familiar and fun for kids and adults alike The recipe celebrates classic comfort food by making it easy for home cooks and sharable for family gatherings

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent noodles from tearing when rolling?

Cook noodles just until tender and avoid overcooking. Drain and let cool slightly before assembling to keep their structure intact.

→ Can I substitute another cheese for ricotta?

Cottage cheese or a blended cream cheese and parmesan mixture work well as alternatives, providing a creamy texture.

→ What is the best way to freeze these roll ups?

Cool baked roll ups completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Bake from frozen or thaw overnight before reheating.

→ Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers blend well with the ricotta and add extra flavor and nutrients.

→ Does this meal work for make-ahead dinners?

Yes, assemble the roll ups ahead of time, refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve. They’re also great for meal prepping individual portions.

→ How should leftovers be reheated?

Individual servings can be reheated in the microwave for up to one minute, or the full pan can go in a 350°F oven for ten minutes.