Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe
If you’re longing for a cozy, comfort-packed pasta dinner without all the hassle of layering a classic lasagna, you’re going to fall head-over-heels for these Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups! Imagine creamy ricotta, punchy pesto, and gooey cheese all snugly rolled up in tender lasagna noodles, simmered right in a skillet, then finished with a bubbly broil. They’re hearty, bursting with flavor, and—best of all—bring all that classic Italian-American goodness to your table in under 40 minutes. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special occasion, this one-pan wonder has “new favorite” written all over it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these kitchen staples is where the magic begins. Each ingredient brings its own charm, from richness and meltiness to fresh herbal notes—making every bite a delicious celebration of taste and texture.
- Lasagna noodles (8-10, cooked al dente): Wide and sturdy, these noodles are perfect for rolling and soaking up all the cheesy goodness.
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Gives the filling a creamy, cloud-like base that makes each roll luxuriously soft.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups, divided): Classic lasagna stretch and melt—half in the filling, half for that irresistible gooey top.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds salty, nutty depth and helps tie the filling together.
- Prepared pesto sauce (1/3 cup): Packs every roll with vibrant basil and garlic flavor; homemade or store-bought both work wonders here.
- Egg (1): Binds the filling, so your roll ups stay together beautifully when sliced.
- Marinara sauce (2 cups): Provides that rich, tangy tomato blanket for the roll ups to nestle into.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): For sautéing and adding a subtle, fruity undertone to the skillet.
- Salt (1/2 tsp): Essential for seasoning the cheese mixture and waking up all the flavors.
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp): A little kick to balance the richness of the cheeses.
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish): A pop of color and freshness that really brings the whole dish together.
How to Make Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups
Step 1: Mix Up the Cheesy Pesto Filling
Let’s start by creating the rich, creamy heart of these roll ups! In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, half of your shredded mozzarella, all the Parmesan, pesto, an egg, salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well blended—the filling should smell amazing, thanks to that basil pesto. This flavorful mix is what sets Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups apart from the ordinary.
Step 2: Roll Up Your Noodles
Lay your cooked lasagna noodles out flat (on a big cutting board or clean surface), then spread approximately 3 tablespoons of filling over each one, edge to edge. Roll each noodle up tightly, starting from one end so the filling stays inside, and set them seam-side down until they’re all ready to go. Each bundle will be packed with gooey, herby cheese—seriously, this step is halfway to dinner paradise!
Step 3: Layer and Simmer in the Skillet
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium. Swirl in 1 cup of marinara sauce, spreading it on the bottom to create the ultimate cozy bed for your roll ups. Place each lasagna roll up seam-side down into the skillet. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top, making sure all the noodles are snuggled under a tomatoey veil, then sprinkle on the rest of your mozzarella cheese. Cover and let everything simmer on low for about 10 minutes—this melds the flavors and gets those cheeses irresistibly melty.
Step 4: Broil to Golden-Bubbly Perfection
Now, preheat your broiler. Pop the uncovered skillet under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese bubbles and turns golden brown in spots. Keep a close eye—things get gorgeous fast! The top should be totally inviting, with pockets of gooiness, stretchy cheese, and little caramelized bits popping out.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Pull the skillet from the oven (careful, it’s hot!), and top your Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups with fresh basil leaves. That final sprinkle makes the whole dish come alive—a little color, a hint of fresh herby aroma, and the perfect finish for your masterpiece!
How to Serve Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups
Garnishes
Nothing adds sparkle quite like a handful of torn fresh basil leaves and an extra grating of Parmesan. For some zing, try a light drizzle of herby olive oil or even cracked black pepper. These little finishing touches make every serving of Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups look restaurant-worthy and give a boost of freshness that balances all the melty cheese.
Side Dishes
Since these roll ups are beautifully decadent, pair them with something bright and crisp. A lemony arugula salad or simple mixed greens is a lovely contrast. Garlic bread or warm focaccia are also excellent for scooping up extra marinara. If you’re feeling extra festive, a roasted veggie platter on the side makes this meal complete.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests, nestle the roll ups in mini cast-iron skillets or individual ramekins for a stunning, personalized touch. For a family-style spread, present the whole skillet right in the center of your table—it’s wonderfully rustic and inviting. These also reheat gorgeously for lunchboxes or weeknight leftovers, so don’t be afraid to pack ‘em up in a thermos for a happy desk lunch!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups keep beautifully. Simply cover your skillet or transfer the roll ups to an airtight container and store them in the fridge; they’ll taste just as delicious for up to three days. Perfect for next-day lunches or midnight cravings!
Freezing
To freeze, arrange cooled roll ups in a freezer-safe dish, separating layers with parchment. Cover tightly with foil or a well-fitting lid. They’ll keep their texture and flavor for up to three months, and you can reheat straight from the freezer for a fabulous make-ahead meal.
Reheating
For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven, covered, until the center is hot and the cheese is melty (about 20 minutes if thawed, up to 35 minutes if frozen). Individual portions can be microwaved, but for the best texture, the oven is the way to go—those crispy cheese edges are worth it!
FAQs
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe?
You’ll get the best results with classic lasagna noodles cooked al dente, but you can try no-boil noodles—just soak them in hot water first for about 10-15 minutes until flexible, so they roll without breaking.
What kind of pesto should I use?
Homemade basil pesto brings a wonderfully fresh, vibrant flavor, but store-bought varieties make for great convenience. Feel free to experiment; sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto can offer tasty twists on the original.
Can I make Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free lasagna noodles, and simply prepare as directed. The cheesy filling and punchy pesto shine just the same.
How do I add meat to this dish?
If you crave added protein, try mixing in cooked ground turkey, chicken, or sausage with the marinara sauce before layering the roll ups. It’s a meaty variation that still keeps all the signature flavors.
Can I assemble the roll ups in advance?
You bet! Roll up the noodles and store them covered (without sauce) in the fridge for up to a day. When ready to cook, layer and finish as instructed—it’s a brilliant way to get ahead for easy entertaining.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about gathering around a bubbling skillet of Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups—each bite offers creamy, garlicky, cheesy flavor, and it’s so much easier than classic lasagna! If you’re ready to wow your family or add a new gem to your weeknight rotation, give this recipe a try. I promise, your taste buds will thank you!
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Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious Skillet Pesto Cheese Lasagna Roll Ups are a fun twist on traditional lasagna, filled with a flavorful cheese-pesto mixture and baked to perfection in a skillet.
Ingredients
Cheese Filling:
- Lasagna noodles (8-10, cooked al dente)
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup)
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups, divided)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup)
- Prepared pesto sauce (1/3 cup)
- Egg (1)
- Salt (1/2 tsp)
- Black pepper (1/4 tsp)
For Assembly:
- Marinara sauce (2 cups)
- Olive oil (1 tbsp)
Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, pesto, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Assembly: Lay cooked lasagna noodles flat and spread about 3 tablespoons of the cheese-pesto mixture evenly over each noodle. Roll up tightly and set aside.
- Cooking: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Spread 1 cup marinara sauce over the bottom of the skillet, place lasagna roll ups seam-side down, and top with remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle with remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Finishing: Cover and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, then transfer skillet to a preheated oven and broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Use homemade or store-bought pesto.
- Add cooked spinach to the cheese mixture for extra greens.
- You can also prepare these roll ups ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to cook.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Broiling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 roll ups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
