These Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups are a fun twist on two classic dishes rolled into one! Soft lasagna noodles are stuffed with cheese, pepperoni, and a tasty sauce.
It’s like a pizza and lasagna had a party, and everyone was invited! I love serving these with extra marinara for dipping—it’s just too good to resist! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles work best here, but you can try using whole wheat or gluten-free versions if needed. Just make sure to cook them al dente for easy rolling!
Ricotta Cheese: If you’re not a fan of ricotta, cottage cheese is a great alternative! For a vegan option, try a plant-based ricotta made from nuts or tofu.
Pepperoni: I like using classic pepperoni for that authentic pizza flavor. You can switch it up with turkey pepperoni for a lighter option or make it vegetarian with sliced bell peppers or mushrooms.
Marinara Sauce: Any marinara sauce works, but homemade is always tastier! You can also use pizza sauce if you prefer a bolder flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Roll Ups Stay Together?
Assembling the lasagna roll ups can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get perfect results. First, leave the cooked noodles flat to cool slightly before filling them. This helps them stay pliable. When spreading the filling, keep it even but don’t overstuff; a little goes a long way!
- Lay the noodles flat, and spread the filling using a spatula or spoon.
- Place the pepperoni near one edge, then roll carefully from that end to keep it tight.
- Arrange the roll ups seam-side down so they hold together during baking.
With these tricks, your roll ups will come out looking great and taste even better! Enjoy your creation!
Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Lasagna Noodles: 9 lasagna noodles
- Cheese Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Marinara Sauce: 2 cups marinara sauce, divided
- Pepperoni: 30 slices (about 3-4 slices per roll up plus some extra for topping)
- Seasoning:
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and an additional 35 minutes for baking, totaling around 50 minutes. It’s a quick assembly that delivers a wow factor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook them until they are al dente as per the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a baking sheet or some foil to stop them from sticking together.
2. Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If you want to add more flavor, toss in the Italian seasoning. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Roll Ups
Take a spoon and spread about 2-3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture evenly over each lasagna noodle. Lay 3-4 slices of pepperoni on one edge and carefully roll the noodle up like a jelly roll. Make sure it’s tight but don’t squeeze too hard!
4. Arrange in Baking Dish
Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Now, place the roll ups seam side down in the dish, getting them snug. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the tops, drenching them in that flavorful goodness!
5. Add Toppings
Layer some extra pepperoni slices on top of each roll up and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese all over. This makes for a bubbly, cheesy top when baked!
6. Bake
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and pop it into a preheated oven set to 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the cheese on top to melt and turn bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish and Serve
Let the roll ups cool for about 5 minutes after baking. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your delicious Pepperoni Pizza Lasagna Roll Ups! They’re an absolute hit!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Noodles?
Absolutely! Whole wheat lasagna noodles add a nice nutty flavor, and gluten-free options are available as well. Just ensure that you follow the cooking instructions based on the type of noodles you choose for best results.
How Can I Make These Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian twist, simply skip the pepperoni and substitute it with your favorite veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also add some roasted zucchini or olives for a Mediterranean flair.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the roll ups a day in advance and keep them covered in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are coming straight from the refrigerator.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover roll ups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave or cover in foil and warm in the oven until heated through. You may want to add a splash of marinara sauce to keep them moist!
