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Pepperoni pizza lasagna roll ups are my go to comfort food when I want that classic oozy cheese and spicy pepperoni combo but in a fun new way These have all the saucy tangy flavors of pizza baked into cozy pasta rolls making them perfect for family nights or game day gatherings
I first baked these on a rainy Saturday when my kids could not decide between pizza and lasagna Now it is a requested treat for movie nights and I love how simple it is to pull together
Ingredients
- Lasagna noodles: use regular or oven ready just keep them tender but not overcooked to avoid breaking
- Marinara or spaghetti sauce: choose a robust jarred sauce or homemade for extra depth and look for one with no added sugar if you like a more savory flavor
- Ricotta cheese: gives creamy richness pick a full fat version for best texture
- Freshly shredded mozzarella: melts best and gives that stretchy bite always opt for shredding at home if possible
- Pepperoni slices: go for a mid spicy variety and look for pre sliced rounds with no fillers
- Onion powder: brings subtle sweetness and warmth
- Garlic powder: rounds out the sauce and cheese get a fresh bottle for more punch
- Italian seasoning: adds herbal brightness and aroma try to use one with dried basil and oregano as main notes
- Optional fresh parsley: makes it extra pretty and fresh cut right before serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Boil and Prepare Noodles:
- Cook lasagna noodles in a large pot of salted water until they are tender but still a touch firm This step is key because overcooked noodles will tear apart during assembly Gently drain and lay noodles flat to cool
- Prep Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Lightly spray a glass baking dish with cooking spray Spread a thin even layer of marinara sauce over the bottom to stop the rolls from sticking and to build flavor from the start
- Mix Ricotta Filling:
- In a mixing bowl blend ricotta with onion powder garlic powder and Italian seasoning until smooth and creamy Taste for seasoning and stir an extra pinch if you like things extra bold
- Fill and Roll Noodles:
- Lay out the noodles on a cutting board or baking sheet Gently spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over each one from edge to edge making sure every bite will be creamy Place pepperoni slices in a single line along the noodle so you get some in every bite
- Roll and Arrange:
- Starting from one end gently roll up each noodle into a tight spiral Take care to keep the filling inside and the roll even Place seam side down in the prepared baking dish in neat rows
- Top with Sauce and Cheese:
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the rolls and spread to cover the tops Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over them making sure every roll is blanketed with cheese
- Bake to Bubble:
- Put in the oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden the sauce should be bubbling at the edges Allow it to settle a couple minutes before serving
- Garnish and Serve:
- Scatter fresh parsley or extra Italian seasoning across the top This brings color freshness and that herby finish just before serving
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Pepperoni adds a special warmth that brings back cozy pizza party memories For me mozzarella is the secret because shredding it yourself gives meltier strings and better flavor I remember making this with my sister and sneaking extra cheese on top just for us
Storage Tips
Keep leftover roll ups in a tightly covered container in the fridge for up to four days For freezing arrange the baked cooled roll ups in a single layer wrap well and freeze up to two months Reheat gently in a 350 degree oven covered with foil until warmed through
Ingredient Substitutions
Try swapping out pepperoni for turkey pepperoni or omit it for a vegetarian version Substitute cottage cheese for ricotta if you want a slightly lighter filling Spinach or sautéed mushrooms can be layered in with the cheese for extra veg and flavor
Serving Suggestions
This dish is delicious with a side salad and a warm basket of garlic bread or cheddar biscuits You can also serve with roasted vegetables or a crunchy slaw for balance Leftover roll ups are fun to pack in lunchboxes and taste great hot or at room temperature
Cultural and Historical Notes
Lasagna itself is classic Italian comfort but these roll ups take inspiration from American pizza culture With all the flavors of your favorite slice in roll form they make for a playful twist on traditional baked pasta The fusion makes weeknight dinners feel like a celebration
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Keep these in your meal rotation for the ultimate family friendly comfort Try your own variations once you master the roll up technique!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, cottage cheese or a mixture of ricotta and cream cheese works well for a creamy texture.
- → What’s the best way to avoid overcooked noodles?
Boil lasagna noodles just until tender, then cool them promptly to prevent sticking and tearing.
- → Can I make this ahead and bake later?
Absolutely. Assemble roll ups, cover, and refrigerate up to a day ahead. Allow extra baking time if chilled.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Fresh salad, garlic bread, or cheesy biscuits complement the rich, hearty flavors perfectly.
- → Is it possible to substitute turkey pepperoni?
Turkey pepperoni is a great substitute for a lighter twist, delivering similar flavor and texture in the rolls.