Go Back

Cheesy Lasagna Rolls - Simple, Comforting, and Crowd-Pleasing

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 12 lasagna noodles (classic, not oven-ready)
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese (whole milk for creaminess)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella (plus extra for topping)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
  • 1 large egg (to bind the filling)
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or good-quality store-bought)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil and oregano)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • Olive oil, for greasing the baking dish

Method
 

  1. Boil the noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles until just shy of al dente, about 7–8 minutes. They should be flexible but not mushy.
  2. Cool and separate: Drain and lay noodles flat on a lightly oiled baking sheet or clean kitchen towels. This prevents sticking and tearing.
  3. Mix the filling: In a bowl, combine ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
  4. Prep the pan: Lightly oil a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spoon about 1/2 cup marinara sauce over the bottom and spread it evenly.
  5. Assemble the rolls: Lay a noodle flat. Spread 2–3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodle, leaving a small border at the ends. Roll up from the short end to create a tidy spiral.
  6. Arrange in the dish: Place each roll seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat until all noodles are filled and rolled.
  7. Add sauce and cheese: Spoon the remaining marinara over the tops of the rolls. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella. Add more Parmesan if you like.
  8. Bake: Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 8–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Finish and serve: Let the rolls rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve warm with extra sauce on the side if desired.