We’ll dive into a cozy, mom-approved take on lasagna roll ups using cottage cheese. You’ll learn exactly why this twist works so well, how to roll them like a pro, and what creamy, cheesy secrets make them shine. We’ll also answer the most common questions people have about swapping cottage cheese for ricotta in lasagna. this recipes is your easy way to bring warmth to the table.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
A Cozy Twist on Classic Comfort – Lasagna Roll Ups With Cottage Cheese
A Family Favorite With a Lighter Twist
Hi there, I’m Emily Frost, and if you’ve followed me for a while, you know how much I love putting a family-friendly spin on the classics. One dish that always brings my crew running to the table is Lasagna Roll Ups With Cottage Cheese. This recipe was born on a busy Thursday night, when I was short on ricotta and had cottage cheese waiting in the fridge. I took a chance, made the swap, and you know what? My kids cleaned their plates. My husband even asked if I had changed something because it tasted extra creamy. That was my sign—it was a keeper.
The best part? These roll ups are easy to prep ahead, bake beautifully, and freeze like a dream. Whether you’re planning a simple weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, they’ve got your back. The cottage cheese gives the filling a lighter, protein-packed feel without losing that cheesy richness everyone craves in lasagna.
Why Cottage Cheese Just Works
If you’ve ever wondered whether cottage cheese really works in lasagna, let me tell you—it absolutely does. Its creamy texture blends perfectly with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, and when seasoned well with garlic, Italian herbs, and a bit of salt, the flavor is spot on. It melts into the roll ups during baking, giving each bite a luscious, gooey texture. Plus, it’s a great source of protein, which makes these roll ups not just comforting, but surprisingly wholesome too.
Need more cozy, protein-packed ideas? Check out my Cottage Cheese Veggie Bake or the hearty Zucchini Cottage Cheese Fritters. They’re both perfect companions to this dish.
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Lasagna Roll Ups With Cottage Cheese – Easy Family Dinner Recipe
Creamy, easy-to-make lasagna roll ups with cottage cheese – the perfect protein-packed dinner for busy families.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
9 cooked lasagna noodles
1 ½ cups cottage cheese (small curd)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan
1 egg
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups marinara sauce
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine cottage cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay cooked noodles flat and spread 2–3 tablespoons of filling on each.
4. Drizzle a little marinara over the filling.
5. Roll each noodle gently and place seam-side down in a sauce-lined baking dish.
6. Top with remaining marinara and extra mozzarella.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Uncover and bake 10 more minutes until bubbly and golden.
9. Let rest 5–10 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
Use whole wheat noodles for more fiber.
Freeze before or after baking for an easy meal prep option.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 roll ups
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Assembling & Rolling – Your Step-by-Step Guide to Lasagna Roll Ups With Cottage Cheese
How to Prepare the Creamy Cottage Cheese Filling
Making the perfect cottage cheese mixture starts with choosing small curd cottage cheese—this gives your filling a smoother texture that won’t feel too chunky. Mix in one beaten egg (this helps everything hold together), a generous handful of shredded mozzarella, and freshly grated Parmesan for that nutty depth. Then add a pinch of garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. The result? A savory, creamy blend that melts beautifully.
If you’re looking for another cheesy meal with cottage cheese, you might also love my Onion and Gruyère Cottage Cheese Bake—it’s rich and rustic, just like these roll ups.
Rolling It All Together – Simple and Clean
Once your noodles are cooked and drained (don’t forget to rinse with cool water so they’re easier to handle), it’s time to assemble. Lay each lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface and spread about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the cottage cheese filling across the length, leaving a small border. Spoon a bit of marinara or homemade tomato sauce over the filling—just enough to keep things moist. Then, roll them up gently from one end to the other.
Place each roll seam-side down in a baking dish lightly coated with sauce. Add a good amount of mozzarella and more marinara on top. Bake, covered with foil, for about 25 minutes, or until bubbling. For that golden, cheesy top, take off the foil in the final 5 to 10 minutes.
Want a full cottage cheese breakfast too? Try my Apple Cinnamon Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowl—it’s creamy, fruity, and so satisfying.
How to Bake, Store, and Serve Lasagna Roll Ups With Cottage Cheese
Baking Lasagna Roll Ups With Cottage Cheese to Perfection
Once your dish is assembled and topped with marinara and cheese, it’s time to bake your lasagna roll ups with cottage cheese. Cover your pan tightly with foil—this helps trap steam and ensures a soft, moist texture. Bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes. To achieve that enticingly bubbling, golden top, take off the foil and bake for an additional ten minutes.
Before serving, let the roll-ups rest for five to ten minutes. This allows the filling to settle and facilitates slicing.The result? Perfectly portioned lasagna roll ups with cottage cheese that hold their shape and deliver creamy comfort in every bite.
For another dish that brings warm, melty flavor to the table, check out my Pumpkin Cottage Cheese Bake—a fall favorite turned year-round staple.
Freezer-Friendly & Meal Prep Approved
One of the best things about lasagna roll ups with cottage cheese is how well they freeze. You can prep them fully, freeze before baking, or freeze leftovers after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Bake straight from frozen by adding 15–20 extra minutes to your cook time.
To store leftovers in the fridge, place them in an airtight container and enjoy within 3 days. They reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven.
These roll ups are also great for make-ahead dinners. Assemble in the morning, refrigerate, then bake fresh at dinnertime. It’s a lifesaver for busy families.
If you love make-ahead meals, you might also enjoy my Cherry and Almond Cottage Cheese Bake or High-Protein Spinach Artichoke Bake—both cozy and prep-friendly.
Customize, Serve, and Boost Nutrition in Lasagna Roll Ups With Cottage Cheese
Healthy Swaps & Protein-Packed Upgrades
Lasagna roll ups with cottage cheese are already a lighter twist on the classic, but you can boost their nutritional value even more. Try using whole wheat lasagna noodles for extra fiber, or gluten-free pasta if needed. Want even more protein? Stir in chopped spinach, shredded chicken, or ground turkey to the cottage cheese mixture.
Using low-fat cottage cheese keeps things creamy without adding too much fat. And if you’re into sneaking in veggies, finely grated zucchini or carrots blend right into the filling without changing the texture.
Love high-protein meals that still feel indulgent? You’ll also enjoy my High Protein Cottage Cheese Bowl and Keto Cottage Cheese Bagels for protein-packed inspiration.
Serving Tips and Flavor Variations
These lasagna roll ups with cottage cheese are perfect on their own, but a side salad or garlic bread rounds them out beautifully. Add Italian sausage or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a tangy edge. Before serving, you can add top with fresh parsley or basil for a taste and color boost.
If you’re feeding picky eaters, leave the sauce and cheese on the side and let everyone customize their plate. This dish is incredibly adaptable—and that’s what makes it such a hit in real homes.
For something sweet after dinner, consider my Cottage Cheese Peanut Butter Mousse—it’s creamy, high in protein, and a perfect no-bake treat.
With a few simple tweaks, you’ll find these lasagna roll ups with cottage cheese fit any mood, meal plan, or family need. They’re the kind of comfort food you’ll feel good about serving again and again.
FAQ: Lasagna Roll Ups With Cottage Cheese
What do you mix with cottage cheese for lasagna?
To make the ideal lasagna roll ups with cottage cheese, mix it with a beaten egg, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper. This combination adds structure, flavor, and that creamy, melty finish lasagna lovers expect.
Why do people put cottage cheese in lasagna?
People use cottage cheese in lasagna for its mild flavor, creamy texture, and high protein content. It’s also more affordable and lower in fat than ricotta, making it a lighter, budget-friendly option without sacrificing taste.
Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta cheese in lasagna?
Yes! Cottage cheese is a fantastic substitute for ricotta. It blends well with eggs and cheese, bakes beautifully, and creates a lighter, slightly tangier version of the classic filling. For a smoother finish, just make sure to select tiny curd.
What is the secret ingredient for the best lasagna?
It’s all about balance—and seasoning your filling. A touch of nutmeg in the cheese mix, fresh basil on top, or even a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate flavor. In lasagna roll ups with cottage cheese, quality marinara and well-seasoned cheese are game-changers.
Conclusion
Lasagna roll ups with cottage cheese are the perfect balance of comfort, ease, and flavor. With every bite, you get that familiar warmth of lasagna—just in a simplified, meal-prep-friendly form. Whether you’re making them for Sunday dinner or freezing a tray for later, these roll ups will become a new family go-to.
Looking for more family-tested dinners? Don’t miss my Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini or Mediterranean Chicken Zucchini Bake. They’re simple, satisfying, and full of flavor.
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