Lasagna Rolls with Ricotta

Name: Lasagna Rolls with Ricotta
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 lasagna noodles; 15 oz ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Modern Inspiration

I love making these Lasagna Rolls with Ricotta because they’re not only delicious but also fun to prepare! Every time I roll up the noodles with a creamy ricotta filling, I feel like an artist creating a masterpiece. It’s a perfect family dish that brings everyone together, and the rich flavors blend beautifully once baked. Plus, they’re ideal for meal prep and can be easily frozen for later! I can’t wait for you to try them!

Created by

Olwen Bradford

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:33:35.165Z

When I first attempted making lasagna rolls, I was a bit skeptical about whether they would hold up while baking. However, I learned that the key is to blanch the lasagna noodles slightly before rolling them, which makes them more pliable. This small step transformed my lasagna experience!

Another tip I discovered is to layer some marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish before placing the rolls. This not only prevents sticking but also enhances flavor absorption. Trust me, these little tricks made my lasagna rolls a hit at family gatherings!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Stuffed with creamy ricotta and fresh herbs for a delightful flavor burst
Perfectly rolled for individual servings, making it easy to share
Can be customized with your favorite fillings or sauces

Mastering the Roll

The key to achieving perfect lasagna rolls is technique. When rolling up the noodles, ensure you gently tighten each roll to avoid any filling spilling out during baking. Start at one end and gradually roll towards the other, maintaining equal pressure throughout. If you find the noodles too sticky, a light dusting of flour or a bit of olive oil on your hands can help them slide more easily.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding chopped spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the ricotta filling. These additions not only enhance the taste but also contribute valuable nutrients. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture from the vegetables to keep the filling from becoming too watery.

Choosing the Right Sauce

Marinara is a classic choice, but you can elevate your lasagna rolls by experimenting with different sauces. A creamy Alfredo sauce can add richness, while a pesto sauce offers a fresh and herbal twist. If you're in the mood for a bit of heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara for a slight kick without overpowering the creamy ricotta.

It's important to balance the acidity of the sauce with the creaminess of the ricotta. If your sauce is particularly tangy, a pinch of sugar can help mellow it out, harmonizing the flavors when baked. Additionally, feel free to layer some sauce between the rolls for added moisture and taste.

Storing and Freezing

Lasagna rolls are excellent for meal prep. Once assembled, you can cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld even further, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Just adjust your baking time by a few minutes if they are coming straight from the fridge to ensure they're heated through.

To freeze lasagna rolls, wrap each individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This method prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. You might need to extend the baking time by 5-10 minutes if they are still slightly frozen.

Ingredients

For the Lasagna Rolls

8 lasagna noodles
15 oz ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Gather these ingredients to make your own delicious lasagna rolls!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Noodles

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel.

Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Rolls

Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on each noodle. Spoon a generous amount of the ricotta mixture onto each noodle and roll them up tightly. Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.

Add Sauce and Cheese

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the rolls and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Garnish with fresh basil before serving and enjoy your delicious lasagna rolls!

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add different vegetables or proteins to the ricotta filling for a unique twist! Spinach or cooked ground meat works beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

To make serving even more delightful, consider pairing your lasagna rolls with a crisp side salad. A simple mixed green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich cheese and tomato flavors. Also, a side of garlic bread can enhance the hearty meal and give everyone a chance to soak up any extra sauce left on the plate.

Garnishing with fresh basil not only boosts the visual appeal but also adds a fragrant herbal note that complements the ricotta and marinara beautifully. For an added touch, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can provide an inviting finish for those who enjoy a bit of spice.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you notice that your lasagna rolls are falling apart during baking, it's often due to overcooking the noodles; they should be just al dente. Make sure to cook them for the minimum time suggested on the package so they hold together well. Additionally, ensuring that you roll them tightly will help maintain their shape.

Should your rolls come out too dry, the issue might be related to insufficient sauce. Make sure to generously cover the rolls before baking. If you realize they need more moisture after baking, a drizzle of extra marinara sauce right before serving can help reintroduce that needed creaminess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! A good quality store-bought marinara can save you time and still yield delicious results.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the lasagna rolls and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

→ Can I freeze the lasagna rolls?

Definitely! Assemble the rolls and freeze them before baking. When ready to eat, just bake from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

You can substitute or add other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.