When you crave the comfort of lasagna but don’t have the time for traditional layering and long bake times, lasagna roll-ups are the answer. These tidy, single-serving portions pack all the classic flavors—cheesy filling, hearty sauce, and tender pasta—in a faster, more weeknight-friendly format. They’re easy to make ahead, kid-approved, and perfect for freezing.
Why Lasagna Roll-Ups Work for Busy Schedules
Instead of stacking multiple layers of noodles, cheese, and sauce, roll-ups streamline the process. You boil lasagna noodles, spread filling on each one, roll them up, place in a dish with sauce, and bake. The result? Less time, fewer dishes, and easier serving portions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and cooled
- 1½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional add-ins: sautéed spinach, crumbled sausage, roasted mushrooms, or cooked ground turkey.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the noodles until just al dente, then lay them flat on parchment or a clean towel.
- Mix the filling: Combine ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, egg, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Spread the mixture evenly across each noodle, leaving about half an inch at the ends.
- Roll them up gently and place seam-side down in a lightly greased baking dish with a layer of sauce on the bottom.
- Top with marinara and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella.
- Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly.
Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving for cleaner plating.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the best things about lasagna roll-ups is how well they store. You can prep them in advance, refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking, or freeze individually for up to 3 months.
For detailed freezing and reheating instructions, check out The Cookist’s lasagna storage guide.
Why Your Family Will Love Them
- Customizable: Add your favorite proteins or veggies
- Portion-controlled: Great for school lunches or work meals
- Freezer-friendly: Ideal for batch cooking and meal prep
- Faster than traditional lasagna: Less bake time and simpler assembly
Print this recipe and keep it on hand for those nights when you want something hearty without a full kitchen production.