Pepperoni Lasagna Roll-Ups with Garlic Knots and Caesar Salad

A Comforting Italian Trio: Savory, Crispy & Fresh

This Italian-inspired meal brings together three crowd-pleasing favorites into one satisfying plate: Pepperoni Lasagna Roll-Ups , Garlic Knots , and a crisp Caesar Salad . The roll-ups are packed with seasoned beef, pepperoni, and gooey cheese baked in rich marinara sauce. The garlic knots add warm, herby crunch. And the Caesar salad? A refreshing contrast that balances it all out.

A restaurant-style dinner—ready at home in under an hour!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• 🍝 Lasagna Roll-Ups: A twist on classic lasagna—easy to make, easy to love.
• 🥩 Beef & Pepperoni Swirl: Juicy ground beef meets spicy pepperoni for bold meaty flavor.
• 🧀 Cheesy Goodness: Ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan layer for creamy depth.
• 🧄 Garlic Knots: Warm, buttery knots infused with aromatic garlic and herbs.
• 🥗 Fresh Caesar Balance: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons keep things light.

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Ingredients (Serves 4):

For the Lasagna Roll-Ups:

• 8 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or boiled al dente – no-boil works too)
• 1 lb ground beef (or plant-based alternative for vegan version)
• ½ cup pepperoni slices (optional – or use mushrooms for veggie option)
• 1 small onion , diced (or shallots for milder flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic , minced (or ½ tsp garlic powder)
• 2 cups marinara sauce (or tomato sauce + red wine for depth)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese (or tofu ricotta for vegan)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or vegan mozzarella if preferred)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for vegan finish)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or oregano/thyme for shortcut)
• Salt and black pepper , to taste

For the Garlic Knots:

• 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade dough for artisan touch)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter , melted (or olive oil for dairy-free)
• 1 clove garlic , minced (or garlic powder for quick blend)
• 1 tsp dried parsley (or fresh basil for variation)
• Pinch of salt

For the Caesar Salad:

• 1 head romaine lettuce , chopped (or iceberg for crunchier texture)
• ½ cup Caesar dressing (or Greek yogurt + lemon juice for lighter version)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan Parmesan for dairy-free)
• 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
• Black pepper , to taste

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Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

Bring salted water to a boil and cook lasagna noodles until al dente (about 8 minutes) .

Drain and lay flat on parchment paper or kitchen towels to prevent sticking.

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Step 2: Brown the Beef Mixture

In a skillet over medium heat , brown ground beef with onion and garlic (5–7 minutes ) until fully cooked.

Drain excess fat.

Stir in:

• 1 cup marinara sauce
• Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper

Simmer for 2–3 minutes to enhance flavors.

Set aside while preparing the roll-ups.

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Step 3: Assemble the Roll-Ups

Place each noodle flat on your work surface.

Spread 2–3 tbsp ricotta along the center.

Top with beef mixture and a few pepperoni slices per noodle.

Roll up tightly and place seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Pour remaining marinara sauce over the top.

Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously on top.

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Step 4: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes , until cheese is golden and bubbly.

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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Step 5: Shape & Bake the Garlic Knots

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) .

Cut pizza dough into 8 strips and tie into loose knots.

Place on a baking sheet and brush with butter-garlic mixture (melted butter, garlic, parsley, and salt).

Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and puffed.

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Step 6: Toss the Caesar Salad

In a bowl, toss:

• Chopped romaine
• Caesar dressing
• Croutons
• Grated Parmesan
• A generous sprinkle of black pepper

Toss gently to coat everything evenly.

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Step 7: Serve Like a Pro

Divide lasagna roll-ups between plates.

Serve warm with:

• Garlic knots on the side
• A hearty portion of Caesar salad
• Extra Parmesan shavings for finishing

Each bite brings together:

• Silky, spiced meat pockets
• Stretchy, melty cheese layers
• Crispy, garlicky knots
• And that crisp, peppery Caesar crunch

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Tips for Success:

• 🥣 Use Cold Hands: For easier rolling and shaping without sticking.
• 🧁 No-Ricotta Hack: Substitute with crumbled feta or goat cheese for tangy twist.
• 🥟 Knot Trick: Tie knots loosely—they puff up as they bake for soft centers.
• 🧑‍🍳 Make Ahead Magic: Roll and refrigerate unbaked roll-ups overnight—top and bake fresh when ready.
• ❄️ Meal Prep Friendly: Store salad separately and assemble just before serving.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with garlic bread, roasted tomatoes, or a glass of red wine .
• Great with a drizzle of hot sauce or ranch dressing for extra flair.
• Ideal for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or late-night cravings .

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Nutritional Information (per serving, makes 4 – approximate):

(With regular beef and cheese – per full plate)

• Calories: ~700 kcal
• Protein: ~30g
• Carbohydrates: ~60g
• Fat: ~35g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sugar: ~6g

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This Italian comfort trio proves that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be unforgettable. With its cheesy roll-ups, crispy garlic knots, and zesty Caesar salad—it’s a must-make for lovers of hearty, balanced meals.

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Additional Notes:

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles and pizza dough.
• Vegan Swap: Replace beef with lentils or jackfruit, use vegan cheeses and dough.
• Storage Tip: Store leftovers in foil-wrapped portions—reheat gently in oven.
• Flavor Hack: Add a splash of Worcestershire or balsamic vinegar to the beef mixture for deeper richness.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make roll-ups and knots ahead—store chilled and reheat when ready to serve.

Pro Tip: For extra golden tops , broil the roll-ups for 2–3 minutes after baking.
Serving Idea: Garnish with fresh basil, edible flowers, or chili flakes for luxury flair.
History Fun: Lasagna originated in Southern Italy—this roll-up version gives it a modern American twist, served alongside garlic knots (a New York invention) and Caesar salad (a Mexican-American creation)—making this a true global Italian fusion!

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Optional Variations:

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Final Serving Touches:

• Drizzle with balsamic glaze or olive oil
• Garnish with lemon zest or microgreens
• Pair with a rustic red wine or cold beer
• Add a dollop of ricotta or sour cream for extra richness

This Italian-inspired plate isn’t just dinner—it’s a full sensory experience. So take a bite, close your eyes, and savor every comforting, crispy, crunchy moment.