If you love the comforting flavors of classic Italian dishes and crave a cheesy, garlicky twist, you’re going to adore this Garlic Bread Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe. It takes the beloved elements of garlic bread and lasagna, blending them into individual, handheld roll-ups that are perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Each roll-up is bursting with creamy ricotta, zesty marinara, and melty mozzarella, all wrapped in tender lasagna noodles and nestled in a buttery garlic base that elevates every bite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings warmth and joy to the table in such a fun and approachable way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to bringing out the best flavors in this Garlic Bread Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe. Each one plays an important role in building layers of richness, texture, and that irresistible garlic aroma.
- 8 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente: The sturdy yet tender foundation for rolling up all the delicious fillings.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and mild, it adds moisture and richness inside each roll.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder, helping the filling hold together nicely during baking.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings herby, aromatic depth to the ricotta filling.
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce: Bright, tomatoey sauce that adds zest and moisture.
- ½ cup mini pepperoni: A fun, spicy punch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese.
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped: Fresh, fragrant herbs that brighten every bite.
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella: Gooey, melty cheese that creates irresistible pull-apart goodness.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: The garlic butter base adds richness and helps create that garlic bread feel.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the butter with a bold, savory flavor.
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan: Sharp and nutty, it rounds out the garlic butter mixture with a savory bite.
How to Make Garlic Bread Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Step 1: Prep the garlic base
Start by mixing the melted butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan. This mixture will coat the bottom of a greased 9×13 baking dish, creating a luscious garlic bread foundation that will soak up the flavors and keep your roll-ups moist and delicious.
Step 2: Make the filling
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, and fresh basil. This blend is creamy, herby, and perfectly balanced to complement the marinara and pepperoni later on. Mixing it well ensures that every bite has that consistent, flavorful filling.
Step 3: Roll it up
Lay out each cooked lasagna noodle and spread a generous layer of the ricotta filling across its surface. Next, add a spoonful of marinara sauce and sprinkle on mini pepperoni slices. Carefully roll up each noodle tightly, ensuring all the layers hold together beautifully so you can slice into perfect roll-ups later.
Step 4: Assemble
Place each roll-up seam-side down on the garlic butter coating the bottom of the pan. This positioning keeps them from unraveling and lets the garlic butter flavor infuse the noodles as they bake. Then, spoon a little extra marinara sauce over each roll for added sauciness and sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly on top for that irresistible melt.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, allowing the cheeses to melt and the flavors to meld. Afterwards, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese on top turns bubbly and golden brown, signaling that the roll-ups are perfectly cooked and ready to enjoy.
Step 6: Garnish
Once out of the oven, sprinkle with extra fresh basil or parsley for a bright, colorful finish and an extra layer of fresh flavor that balances the rich, cheesy elements.
How to Serve Garlic Bread Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped basil or parsley are ideal garnishes, adding a burst of green color and refreshing notes that cut through the richness of the dish. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also bring another flavor dimension and a hint of warmth.
Side Dishes
Pair these roll-ups with a crisp green salad to balance the hearty, cheesy main, or some roasted vegetables for an extra dose of nutrition and color. Garlic Bread Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe also pairs wonderfully with a simple Caesar salad or steamed broccoli tossed with lemon and olive oil.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve the roll-ups arranged tightly in a rustic wooden board or on an elegant platter lined with fresh basil leaves. You can also place a small bowl of marinara sauce in the center for dipping, making it interactive and extra fun for guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Bread Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe is just as delightful reheated. Keep them stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Covering them tightly helps maintain moisture so the cheesy goodness doesn’t dry out.
Freezing
These roll-ups freeze beautifully before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, making it easy to enjoy this dish anytime you crave it.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers or frozen roll-ups, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning, removing it near the end to crisp the cheese on top once more.
FAQs
Can I use regular-sized pepperoni instead of mini pepperoni?
Absolutely! Just chop the regular pepperoni into smaller pieces so they fit comfortably within the roll-ups and distribute evenly throughout the filling. This ensures every bite has that perfect pepperoni flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. Simply skip the pepperoni and if you like, substitute with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for added flavor and texture while keeping the dish vegetarian-friendly.
Can I prepare the roll-ups ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups and refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes meal prep really convenient without sacrificing freshness or flavor.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If ricotta isn’t available, cottage cheese (blended smooth) or a mix of cream cheese and a bit of sour cream can work as tasty alternatives that maintain the creamy texture of the filling.
How do I make the roll-ups less messy to eat?
Rolling the noodles tightly and placing them seam-side down in the baking dish helps. Also, letting the roll-ups cool for a few minutes after baking allows the filling to set up slightly, making them easier to handle and enjoy without falling apart.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Bread Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to comfort food favorites because it packs all the best parts of garlic bread and lasagna into a single, satisfying bite. I hope you find it as joyful to make and share as I do. Give it a try and prepare for everyone around your table to ask for seconds – it’s that irresistible!
Print
Garlic Bread Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 roll-ups
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Garlic Bread Lasagna Roll-Ups are a delightful twist on classic lasagna, combining creamy ricotta, mini pepperoni, and rich marinara sauce all rolled in tender lasagna noodles. Topped with a flavorful garlic butter base and melted mozzarella, this baked dish is perfect for a comforting family meal or special dinner.
Ingredients
Lasagna Roll-Ups
- 8 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- ½ cup mini pepperoni
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella
Garlic Butter Base
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Prep the garlic base: Mix melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese together. Pour this flavorful mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish to create a savory garlic butter base.
- Make the filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, and chopped fresh basil. Blend until smooth and well incorporated to form the creamy filling.
- Roll it up: Spread a generous layer of the ricotta mixture evenly over each cooked lasagna noodle. Top each noodle with a layer of marinara sauce and mini pepperoni slices. Then, carefully roll up each noodle tightly from one end to the other.
- Assemble: Place each lasagna roll-up seam-side down onto the prepared garlic butter in the baking dish. Spoon a bit more marinara sauce over each roll and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish: Once baked, garnish the roll-ups with extra chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired, adding a fresh herbaceous touch before serving.
Notes
- For best results, cook lasagna noodles al dente to make rolling easier and to prevent mushiness.
- Feel free to substitute mini pepperoni with cooked sausage or omit for a vegetarian version.
- Make sure to cover with foil during the initial baking to keep the roll-ups moist and prevent the cheese from over-browning.
- Leftovers can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated covered to maintain moisture.
