Cheesy Baked Lasagna Rolls for a Quick Weeknight Dinner Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For a more vibrant flavor, add finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the ricotta mixture before spreading it onto the noodles. This adds a layer of freshness that balances the richness of the cheese.

Additionally, if the filling seems too thick, a tablespoon of water can be stirred in to improve the consistency and ensure the pasta remains hydrated while baking.

If the top of the cheese is browning too quickly before the center of the rolls is hot, cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil for the first 15 minutes of cooking.

Removing the foil for the final 10 minutes will allow the cheese to achieve that perfect, golden finish. This technique gives better control over the browning process and ensures the dish is cooked evenly throughout.

Variations

• Spinach and Ricotta: Stir one cup of finely chopped, well-drained cooked spinach into the ricotta mixture before assembling the rolls. This adds a vibrant color and a mild earthy flavor that complements the cheese beautifully.
• Herbed Ricotta: Mix two tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley and basil into the ricotta. This simple addition adds a fresh, aromatic quality that elevates the flavor of the cheese filling.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use a microwave on medium power until piping hot.

Transfer any leftover lasagna rolls into an airtight container once they have cooled to room temperature. This helps maintain the moisture of the pasta and prevents the cheese from drying out.

Store the container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to eat, ensure they are reheated until steaming hot to maintain the best quality and flavor of the original baked dish.

These lasagna rolls can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the assembly instructions, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator.

When ready to cook, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed, adding an extra 5 to 10 minutes to the total baking time to account for the cold starting temperature of the ingredients.

Serving ideas

Serve the lasagna rolls warm, ideally accompanied by a crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette to contrast the richness of the cheese and pasta. A side of crusty garlic bread is also an excellent addition for the meal. The presentation is enhanced by garnishing each portion with a few fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated parmesan.

When serving, use a wide spatula to carefully lift each roll from the baking dish, keeping the structure intact. Place the rolls in the center of the plate. These portions are hearty enough to serve as a main course, and their individual nature makes them perfect for simple, stress-free entertaining at home.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Cheesy Baked Lasagna Rolls for a Quick Weeknight Dinner

Prep 20 minCook 30 minRest 5 minTotal 55 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 6 sheets lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Cook the lasagna noodles in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain and lay them flat on a clean surface. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Spread a generous tablespoon of the ricotta mixture evenly over each cooked noodle sheet, leaving a small border at the edges.
2. Carefully roll each noodle starting from one end to create a tight, uniform cylinder. Arrange the lasagna rolls seam-side down in the baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of the rolls.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the center of the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to settle.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

380

Protein

16 g

Carbohydrates

32 g

Fat

20 g

Fiber

2 g

Sugar

4 g

Sodium

600 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.