As I rummaged through my pantry one evening, I stumbled upon a few lonely lasagna noodles and a tub of cottage cheese begging for attention. It sparked a culinary adventure that led to the creation of these Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups with Cottage Cheese—a recipe that reinvents a classic comfort food into a fun, family-friendly meal. With their rich and creamy cottage cheese filling, fragrant parmesan, and vibrant pesto, these roll ups become an effortless weeknight favorite. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they also bring a smile to the faces around your dinner table, proving that homemade doesn’t have to mean complicated. Are you ready to roll into this cheesy goodness together?
Why Are These Lasagna Roll Ups a Must-Try?
Comforting Delight: The flavors come together in a way that feels like a warm hug, making it perfect for cozy dinners.
Quick & Easy: You can have this dish ready in under an hour, saving you precious time on busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly Fun: Kids love rolling their own noodles, turning dinner into a delightful activity!
Versatile Recipe: Whether you add spinach, mushrooms, or swap in your favorite sauce, the variations are endless. For more delicious family meals, check out my tasty Grilled Cheese Burrito or try the delicious Pumpkin Spice Gooey for dessert.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Each bite boasts layers of melty cheese and savory goodness, sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Enjoy the joy of homemade cooking with this easy recipe that brings everyone together!
Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups Ingredients
For the Filling
• Cottage Cheese – Provides a creamy, rich filling; use full-fat small curd for the best results.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds savory depth; consider substituting with grated pecorino for a sharper flavor.
• Parsley – Freshens the dish; can be replaced with basil for a more aromatic touch.
• Pesto – Offers a burst of flavor and creaminess; feel free to use homemade or store-bought varieties.
• Egg – Binds the filling ingredients together for a cohesive texture.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste as needed.
• Garlic Powder – Infuses a subtle, savory essence; fresh minced garlic can be used instead.
For the Noodles and Sauce
• Lasagna Noodles – The base of the dish; opt for no-boil noodles for quicker prep.
• Marinara Sauce – Provides moisture and flavor; a high-quality brand like Rao’s Homemade is recommended.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully on top, creating a gooey layer; can be substituted with provolone for a different taste.
For the Topping
• Fresh Basil – For garnish and added aroma just before serving; it elevates the dish beautifully.
Get ready to create delightful Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups with Cottage Cheese that will warm hearts and fill bellies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups with Cottage Cheese
Step 1: Prep the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cottage cheese, 1/2 cup of grated parmesan, 1/4 cup of chopped parsley, 1/4 cup of pesto, 1 beaten egg, and season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to taste. Stir these ingredients together until smooth and well-blended, ensuring the filling has a creamy consistency that’s ready to roll.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the lasagna noodles and cook them for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they are al dente, meaning slightly firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to cool; pat the noodles dry to prevent excess moisture from affecting the final dish.
Step 3: Assemble the Roll Ups
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Take one lasagna noodle and spread about 1/3 cup of the creamy cottage cheese filling evenly over the noodle. Starting from one end, roll the noodle tightly into a spiral shape and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat this process for the remaining noodles until the dish is filled with delicious roll ups.
Step 4: Layer the Dish
Pour a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the baking dish to avoid sticking. Carefully arrange the rolled lasagna noodles side by side on top of the sauce. Drizzle the remaining marinara sauce over the roll ups, ensuring they’re generously coated. Sprinkle 1 to 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on top for that melty finish.
Step 5: Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for 40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cheese to begin melting. After 40 minutes, remove the foil to expose the cheesy top, then continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the mozzarella is golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once baked to perfection, take the cheesy lasagna roll ups out of the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Garnish with fresh basil before slicing and serving, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Variations & Substitutions for Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups
Feel free to mix and match ingredients to make these Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups truly your own!
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Ricotta Swap: Substitute cottage cheese with ricotta for a creamier, traditional taste—perfect for those classic Italian cravings.
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Vegetable Boost: Sneak in some cooked spinach or sautéed mushrooms to the filling for added nutrition and texture. The earthy flavors complement the cheese beautifully.
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Alfredo Sauce: Instead of marinara, pour creamy Alfredo sauce over the roll ups for a luxurious twist—ideal for special occasions or a cozy night in.
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Pesto Kick: Add a hint of heat by mixing in some red pepper flakes with the pesto, giving your dish a zesty flair that will wake up your taste buds.
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Herb Variations: Swap out parsley for fresh basil or oregano in the filling to switch up the flavor profile and incorporate different aromas into your meal.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and vegan cream cheese in place of cottage cheese for a delicious plant-based version everyone can enjoy.
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Spicy Marinara: Choose a spicy marinara sauce or add a splash of hot sauce to the filling for a delightful kick! This bold choice will excite any heat lovers at the dinner table.
For more delicious dinner ideas, check out my tasty Pumpkin Spice Gooey dessert that pairs well or try my savory Skillet Cheese Buffalo for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups
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Noodle Choice: Opt for no-boil lasagna noodles to save time; they require less cooking and make assembly easier.
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Pack the Filling: Ensure each noodle is evenly filled to prevent gaps when rolling; this will help avoid spilling during baking.
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Sauce Quality: Use a high-quality marinara sauce; it significantly enhances the flavor of your Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups.
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Resting Time: Allow the roll ups to rest after baking; this helps them set and makes serving cleaner and easier.
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Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the dish; feel free to mix different herbs into the filling for more flavor.
Storage Tips for Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups
Fridge: Store leftover Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for quick meals.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbaked lasagna roll ups in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for a quick and hearty meal.
Assembly Tip: If you plan to freeze the roll ups, ensure they are tightly rolled and well-coated with sauce to prevent freezer burn and maintain flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups with Cottage Cheese are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the filling and roll the noodles up to 24 hours in advance. Simply complete steps 1 to 3, then place the rolled noodles in an airtight container after patting them dry. To maintain quality and prevent moisture buildup, store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. On the day of serving, pour marinara sauce into your baking dish, arrange the roll ups, coat with the remaining sauce, and sprinkle mozzarella on top. Bake as directed, and enjoy hassle-free, delicious lasagna roll ups that are just as delightful as if they were freshly made!
What to Serve with Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups with Cottage Cheese
Complete your meal with delightful pairings that create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each complement brings something special to the table!
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Garlic Bread: The perfect crunchy vessel for sopping up marinara sauce, adding warmth with every buttery bite.
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Green Salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and lemon offers a fresh and bright counterpart to rich lasagna.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies add depth and a slightly sweet contrast, enhancing the overall meal while remaining nutritious.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned broccoli adds a delightful crunch, balancing the creaminess of the roll ups and rounding out your plate beautifully.
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Caprese Salad: Sliced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a refreshing Italian twist that mirrors the flavors of your roll ups.
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Italian Wine: A medium-bodied red such as Chianti complements the flavors of marinara and cheese, making your dinner feel even more like an Italian feast.
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Tiramisu: End on a sweet note with this classic dessert, whose light texture and coffee flavor create a delightful finale to your comforting meal.
Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups with Cottage Cheese Recipe FAQs
What type of cottage cheese should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! For the creamiest and richest filling, I recommend using full-fat small curd cottage cheese. If you have large curd cottage cheese on hand, just mash it down to ensure even mixing with other ingredients.
How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?
Leftover Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just pop them in the oven for a quick reheating and enjoy!
Can I freeze Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups. Place them in a single layer in a baking dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, transfer them to the oven straight from the freezer—just remember to add 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time for best results.
What should I do if my noodles are tearing while assembling?
Very! If your noodles are tearing, it likely means they were overcooked. Remember to boil them just until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). If they tear anyway, you can always layer the filling and make a lasagna instead! No waste, just deliciousness!
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Absolutely! When preparing Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups, be sure to check for dietary restrictions among your loved ones. If anyone has dairy allergies, consider using lactose-free cheese alternatives, or try a vegan filling made with blended tofu and nutritional yeast.
How do I prevent excess moisture in my dish?
To keep your Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups from becoming soggy, make sure to pat the noodles dry after boiling to remove any excess moisture. Also, using a quality marinara sauce that isn’t overly watery will help maintain the right texture in your final dish. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Cheesy Lasagna Roll Ups with Cottage Cheese for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cottage cheese, parmesan, parsley, pesto, egg, and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook lasagna noodles for 8 to 10 minutes until al dente.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread cottage cheese filling evenly over each noodle, roll tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of the dish. Arrange rolled noodles side by side on top, drizzling with remaining sauce and sprinkle mozzarella on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes, then remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh basil before serving.
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