Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups

Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups are a cozy, cheesy, garlic-scented twist on classic lasagna, rolled up into individual portions and baked in a rich garlic butter sauce. This is the kind of comfort food that feels special enough for Sunday dinner but approachable enough for a weeknight when you want something indulgent yet still simple to pull together.

Introduction

There is something undeniably comforting about a bubbling pan of lasagna coming out of the oven, edges browned, cheese melted into golden pools, and the aroma of garlic and butter filling the kitchen. Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups take everything you love about classic lasagna and turn it into neat, spiraled bundles of joy that are as fun to serve as they are to eat. Tender lasagna noodles are wrapped around a creamy ricotta and spinach filling, then nestled into a pool of garlic butter and baked until irresistibly melty and fragrant. This is cheesy Italian-American comfort food at its best.

Instead of layering sheets of pasta and sauce in a towering casserole, each noodle gets its own moment. You spread on a rich, garlicky ricotta filling, roll it up like a little pasta log, and arrange the roll-ups in a buttery baking dish. As they bake, the garlic butter bubbles up around the rolls, soaking into the edges of the noodles and mingling with the cheese to create a silky, savory sauce. Every bite gives you that perfect ratio of noodle, creamy filling, and garlicky goodness.

The flavor is cozy yet bright: garlic sings through both the filling and the butter sauce, fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of green, and a trio of cheeses make things ultra-creamy and satisfying. The texture hits all the comfort notes too: soft but not mushy noodles, a fluffy, rich ricotta filling, and a gooey top layer of mozzarella and Parmesan. If you love creamy, cheesy comfort food or easy pasta dinners, this Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Whether you are cooking for a family dinner, date night in, or meal prep for the week, these roll-ups are a crowd-pleasing, freezer-friendly option that feels a little more special than a basic baked pasta. Let’s get started and make a pan of these irresistible Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All the flavor of lasagna without the fuss: You get the same cheesy, comforting vibe as traditional lasagna, but roll-ups are easier to assemble, portion, and serve.
• Garlic butter takes it over the top: Instead of red sauce, a rich garlic butter sauce infuses every bite, making this perfect for anyone who loves creamy garlic pasta recipes.
• Perfect for make-ahead and meal prep: You can assemble the roll-ups in advance, refrigerate or freeze, then bake when you are ready for an easy dinner.
• Family-friendly comfort food: The mild, cheesy filling and familiar lasagna flavors make this a hit with both kids and adults.
• Beautiful presentation for guests: Individual roll-ups look elegant on a plate, ideal for entertaining without complicated plating.
• Flexible and customizable: Add chicken, Italian sausage, extra veggies, or swap in whole-wheat noodles to fit your preferences while keeping the creamy comfort at the center.

Ingredients

Here is everything you need to make Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups. Quantities are approximate for about 4 to 6 servings (around 12 roll-ups). Adjust to taste or to fit your baking dish.

Ingredient List

Ingredient	Approximate Amount	Notes
Lasagna noodles	12 noodles	Cook to al dente so they hold their shape when rolled.
Ricotta cheese	2 cups	Whole milk ricotta gives the creamiest texture for this comfort food.
Shredded mozzarella cheese	1 ¾ cups, divided	Use part in the filling and part on top; freshly shredded melts best.
Grated Parmesan cheese	¾ cup, divided	Adds salty, nutty depth to the cheesy filling and topping.
Fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed)	2 cups chopped (or about 1 cup frozen)	Squeezed very dry if using frozen, so the filling stays thick and creamy.
Fresh basil or parsley	¼ cup, finely chopped	Adds freshness to balance the rich garlic butter.
Large eggs	2	Help bind the filling so it slices cleanly and stays fluffy.
Garlic (for filling)	4 cloves, minced	Infuses the ricotta mixture with savory garlic flavor.
Garlic (for butter sauce)	4–5 cloves, minced	The star of the buttery sauce around the roll-ups.
Unsalted butter	6 tablespoons	Forms the base of the garlic butter sauce; unsalted gives you better control.
Salt	1–1 ½ teaspoons, divided	Adjust to taste, especially if your cheeses are salty.
Black pepper	½ teaspoon	Adds gentle warmth and balance.
Red pepper flakes (optional)	¼ teaspoon	For a little heat if you like a spicy kick.
Nutmeg (optional but lovely)	⅛–¼ teaspoon	A classic addition to creamy spinach and ricotta; just a whisper.
Fresh parsley (for garnish)	2 tablespoons	Bright green sprinkle for serving.
Olive oil or nonstick spray	As needed	To lightly grease the baking dish and prevent sticking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Lasagna Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook just until al dente according to package directions. You want them tender but not too soft so they hold up to rolling.
   • Tip: Cook 1–2 extra noodles in case any tear or stick together. Lay cooked noodles flat on a parchment-lined sheet or lightly oiled surface to prevent sticking.

2. Make the Creamy Ricotta Filling

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, 1 ¼ cups shredded mozzarella, ½ cup grated Parmesan, chopped spinach, chopped basil or parsley, and 2 eggs. Add 4 minced garlic cloves, ½–1 teaspoon salt, black pepper, and nutmeg if using.
   • Tip: Stir gently until everything is evenly combined and the filling looks creamy and cohesive. Overmixing can make ricotta grainy, so fold more than you stir aggressively.

3. Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce

3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 4–5 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and just barely starting to turn a soft golden color.
   • Tip: Keep the heat moderate and stir often. You want the garlic to gently infuse the butter, not brown or burn, which would introduce a bitter taste. Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (or a bit more basil), a pinch of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

4. Preheat and Prep the Baking Dish

4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray. Spoon a few tablespoons of the garlic butter sauce into the bottom of the dish and spread it around to create a thin base layer.
   • Tip: That slick of garlic butter under the roll-ups prevents sticking and adds extra flavor to the bottom of each noodle.

5. Fill the Noodles

5. Lay the cooled lasagna noodles flat on your work surface. Working with one at a time, spread 2–3 tablespoons of the ricotta filling evenly over each noodle, leaving a small border (about ½ inch) at each end.
   • Tip: If you overfill, the mixture will squeeze out as you roll. Aim for an even, not-too-thick layer so the roll stays tight and holds together.

6. Roll Them Up

6. Starting from one short end, gently but firmly roll each noodle up into a tight spiral. Place each roll seam-side down in the prepared baking dish, nestling them snugly next to each other.
   • Tip: Think of rolling a small burrito or cinnamon roll: keep the tension even and tuck gently as you go. If any filling escapes, just nudge it back on top.

7. Add Garlic Butter and Cheese

7. Drizzle about half of the remaining garlic butter sauce evenly over the tops of the roll-ups. Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup mozzarella and ¼ cup Parmesan.
   • Tip: Try to get some of the garlic pieces on top of the noodles; they toast slightly in the oven and add amazing flavor and texture.

8. Bake Until Bubbling and Golden

8. Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for about 20–25 minutes, until the roll-ups are heated through and the cheese is melted. Remove the foil and bake another 8–10 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and bubbling.
   • Tip: If you like a deeper golden top, you can broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely so it does not burn.

9. Finish and Serve

9. Once out of the oven, drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce over the hot roll-ups and sprinkle with extra fresh parsley. Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving so the filling can set slightly.
   • Tip: That short rest makes it easier to scoop individual roll-ups without them collapsing and helps the creamy filling feel more cohesive on the plate.

Tips for Success

• Use al dente noodles: Overcooked lasagna noodles are harder to roll and can tear easily. Keep them slightly firm so they hold the filling and keep their shape as a creamy weeknight dinner idea.
• Dry the spinach well: Excess moisture from spinach can make the filling watery and cause the roll-ups to ooze too much liquid. Squeeze frozen spinach dry in a clean dish towel or press fresh spinach between paper towels.
• Season the filling generously: The cheese and pasta dull flavors a bit in the oven, so taste the ricotta mixture before filling the noodles and adjust salt and pepper. A well-seasoned filling is key for a flavorful creamy sauce experience.
• Keep the garlic pale: Garlic should be soft and fragrant, not deeply browned. Burned garlic will overpower your comfort food with bitterness instead of warmth.
• Don’t skimp on Parmesan: Parmesan adds savoriness and depth, so use the full amount. It helps balance the richness of the butter and ricotta in this easy dinner.
• Let it rest before serving: A brief rest after baking allows the cheese and filling to settle, so your roll-ups serve more neatly and the sauce clings better.
• Double the recipe for freezing: Since this dish freezes well, consider making a second pan. Bake one now and freeze the other unbaked for a future busy night.

Variations & Substitutions

• Chicken Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups: Stir 1–2 cups of finely shredded cooked chicken into the ricotta mixture for added protein. Rotisserie chicken works beautifully and turns this into a heartier main course.
• Veggie-packed version: Add sautéed mushrooms, finely chopped roasted bell peppers, or caramelized onions to the filling for more vegetables and flavor. Just make sure any extra veggies are cooked and cooled before mixing in to keep the filling thick.
• Low-carb twist: Use thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant (salted and roasted until pliable) in place of some of the lasagna noodles. Roll the filling in the vegetable slices for a lighter, more veggie-forward version that still tastes like creamy comfort food.
• Spicy garlic butter roll-ups: Increase the red pepper flakes in the garlic butter and add a pinch directly to the ricotta filling for a subtle, warming heat that complements the richness.
• Herb-forward variation: Swap basil for thyme, oregano, or an Italian herb blend in the filling and sauce for a more herbaceous, aromatic profile.

What to Serve With It

• Simple green salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a bright vinaigrette cuts through the richness and keeps the meal balanced.
• Garlic bread or crusty baguette: If you want to lean fully into comfort food, serve with toasted garlic bread for soaking up any extra garlic butter sauce on the plate.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted broccoli, green beans, or asparagus pair beautifully and add texture and nutrients without competing with the flavors of the lasagna roll-ups.
• Light dessert: Finish with something simple and not overly heavy, like fresh berries with whipped cream or a small scoop of lemon sorbet. It’s perfect for cozy nights in where you still want a sweet ending without going overboard.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Let the roll-ups cool completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing (unbaked): Assemble the roll-ups in a freezer-safe dish, pour over the garlic butter, top with cheese, and cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2–3 months. Bake from frozen at 350°F (180°C), adding extra time until heated through and bubbly.
• Freezing (baked): Cool completely, then portion into individual servings and freeze in airtight containers. This makes easy grab-and-reheat lunches.
• Reheating in the oven: For best texture, reheat covered in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 15–20 minutes (longer from frozen), then uncover for a few minutes to re-melt the cheese.
• Reheating in the microwave: Microwave individual roll-ups on medium power, covered, until warmed through. Add a teaspoon of water or extra butter to the dish before reheating to help keep the sauce creamy and prevent drying out.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Roll-Up)

These values will vary based on exact ingredients, brands, and sizes, but here is a general idea for one roll-up if you make about 12:

Nutrient	Approximate Amount per Roll-Up
Calories	~260–320 kcal
Protein	~13–16 g
Carbohydrates	~22–26 g
Fat	~13–17 g
Fiber	~2–3 g
Sugar	~3–5 g
Sodium	~450–650 mg

With the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan, these Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups are moderately high in protein and very satisfying. They are not keto-friendly due to the pasta, but you can move them in a lower-carb direction by using fewer noodles and more vegetable roll-ups or serving with a big salad and fewer portions of pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the noodles: Soft noodles tear easily and turn mushy as they bake again. Pull them from the water when they are just al dente.
• Using wet spinach: Failing to squeeze out spinach can leave your filling watery and cause the sauce to separate. Always remove as much moisture as possible.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic scorches quickly and becomes bitter. Keep an eye on the pan and lower the heat if needed so it only gently sizzles in the butter.
• Overfilling the noodles: Too much filling will spill out as you roll and bake. Stick with a thin, even layer to keep each roll tight and tidy.
• Skipping the rest time: Cutting in immediately can result in fillings that slide out and a messy plate. Those few minutes of resting give you cleaner slices and a better eating experience.

FAQ

Can I make Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups fully, cover, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Let the dish sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes while the oven preheats, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Absolutely. You can freeze the roll-ups unbaked or baked. For unbaked, assemble, cover tightly, and freeze in a freezer-safe dish. Bake from frozen at a slightly lower temperature and allow extra time until the center is piping hot. For baked leftovers, freeze in portions and reheat for quick, comforting lunches or dinners.

What can I use instead of ricotta?

If you do not like ricotta, you can try a mixture of small curd cottage cheese (well-drained) blended with a little cream cheese for a smoother texture. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be slightly different but still creamy and delicious.

Can I add meat to the filling?

Yes. Shredded cooked chicken, crumbled Italian sausage, or finely chopped cooked bacon are all delicious additions. Fold about 1–2 cups of meat into the ricotta mixture, making sure it is cooled and not too greasy so the filling remains thick.

How do I keep the roll-ups from falling apart?

Make sure the noodles are al dente, do not overfill them, and always place them seam-side down in the baking dish. The snug fit in the dish, plus the cheese and sauce, helps hold everything together as they bake.

Can I use oven-ready/no-boil lasagna noodles?

For this particular recipe, traditional boiled lasagna noodles work best because they need to be pliable enough to roll. No-boil sheets tend to crack or not soften properly in this style of dish. If you experiment with them, you may need to briefly soak or parboil first.

How can I make this lighter?

Use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella, reduce the butter slightly, and add extra spinach or other veggies to bulk up the filling. You can also serve smaller portions with a large salad or roasted vegetables to keep the overall meal lighter while still enjoying creamy lasagna roll-ups.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups bring everything you love about cheesy baked pasta into a fun, beautiful, and deeply comforting format. Tender lasagna noodles wrapped around a creamy, garlicky ricotta and spinach filling, all baked in a luscious garlic butter sauce, make this dish feel like a warm hug on a plate. It is an easy dinner that looks impressive, freezes well, and hits that perfect cozy, family-friendly sweet spot.

If this becomes a staple at your table, you will love how flexible it is: add chicken or sausage, tweak the herbs, or go extra veggie-heavy depending on your mood. When you make these Garlic Butter Lasagna Roll-Ups, come back and let me know how they turned out, what you served them with, and what little twists you tried. If you loved this recipe, try my next creamy pasta-style comfort dish, like a Creamy Chicken Alfredo or a Tuscan-style creamy chicken bake, to keep the cozy dinner streak going.