If you are searching for a comforting and veggie-packed meal, the Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe is an absolute must-try. This dish combines the rich sweetness of roasted butternut squash with creamy cheeses and delicate spices, all wrapped neatly inside tender lasagna noodles and baked to bubbly perfection. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozy dinners that impress without fuss. Each bite offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a standout twist on traditional lasagna that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together in this recipe, each playing a critical role in creating the harmonious taste and appealing texture of the Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe. From creamy ricotta to fragrant spices, every element enhances the dish’s cozy vibe.
- 9 lasagna noodles: Cooked according to package instructions to provide a tender base for rolling.
- 2 cups roasted butternut squash (pureed): Adds natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Creamy texture that balances the earthiness of the squash.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, savory kick and depth of flavor.
- 1 egg (beaten): Binds the filling ingredients together.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Enhances flavors and helps sauté the garlic.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Lends aromatic warmth and subtle spiciness.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme: Introduces a herby note that complements the squash.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: Adds a cozy hint of spice that brings everything to life.
- 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained): Boosts nutrition and adds freshness.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: The saucy base that keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate all the ingredients.
How to Make Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and cooking the lasagna noodles according to the package directions. Setting these foundational steps early ensures a smooth preparation flow and perfectly cooked noodles ready for rolling.
Step 2: Mix Your Filling
In a spacious bowl, combine the roasted butternut squash puree with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, beaten egg, minced garlic, dried thyme, nutmeg, spinach, and seasoning. This mixture is the luscious heart of your roll-ups, balancing creaminess, spice, and earthy freshness.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Spoon a thin layer of marinara sauce across the bottom of your baking dish. This creates a flavorful base that prevents sticking and infuses the rolls with tangy tomato goodness during baking.
Step 4: Assemble the Roll-Ups
Lay each lasagna noodle flat on your workspace, then spread a generous amount of the butternut squash mixture evenly across it. Carefully roll up each noodle into tight cylinders, making sure the filling stays inside for that perfect bite.
Step 5: Arrange and Add Sauce
Place each rolled-up noodle seam-side down in the baking dish, packing them snugly together. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the rolls, coating them in rich red sauce that will bubble and caramelize as they bake.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover your dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld. Then remove the foil and bake an extra 10 minutes for a beautifully browned, bubbly top that’s downright irresistible.
Step 7: Serve and Savor
Once out of the oven, let the roll-ups cool briefly before serving. This final step lets everything set just enough to slice with ease while keeping the center warm and comforting.
How to Serve Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil make perfect finishing touches. These simple garnishes add a fresh, aromatic contrast to the rich and creamy roll-ups.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a well-rounded meal. The freshness of leafy greens balances the dish’s richness, while the bread is perfect for sopping up extra sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual roll-ups on a stylish platter or stack them in a colorful casserole dish for a family-style presentation. You can even sprinkle toasted pine nuts or fresh sage over the top to add texture and an earthy flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place cooled roll-ups in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. They maintain their flavor and texture beautifully, making great leftovers for busy weeknights.
Freezing
Wrap the unbaked roll-ups tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, bake them directly from frozen, adding extra baking time to ensure they’re heated through perfectly.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to avoid drying out, or microwave on medium power until warmed through. The creamy filling and melty cheese will come back to life, tasting just as delightful as freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh spinach is wonderful in this recipe. Just be sure to wilt it first by sautéing lightly or steaming, then squeezing out any excess moisture before adding it to the filling.
Is it possible to make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the filling a day in advance can save you time on cooking day. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the roll-ups.
Can I substitute other types of squash?
Butternut squash offers a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess, but similar squashes like acorn or kabocha could work. Keep in mind their flavors and moisture content may alter the final taste slightly.
Do I have to use an egg in the filling?
The egg helps bind the filling for easier rolling and a firmer texture. If you prefer not to use eggs, a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of water can be a substitute, though texture might be a little different.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To veganize this Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe, swap out cheeses for plant-based alternatives and use a flax egg or chia egg as a binder. Also, select a vegan marinara sauce to keep everything plant-friendly.
Final Thoughts
This Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe is an absolute treat that blends comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients in a delightful way. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply yourself, this dish delivers both warmth and elegance with minimal effort. I promise, once you try it, it’ll become one of your go-to cozy favorites. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups recipe is a cozy and vegetable-packed twist on traditional lasagna. Featuring roasted butternut squash pureed and combined with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and spinach, these delicious roll-ups are baked in marinara sauce for a comforting meal perfect for fall or any time you want a hearty vegetarian dish.
Ingredients
Lasagna Noodles
- 9 lasagna noodles (cooked according to package instructions)
Filling
- 2 cups roasted butternut squash (pureed)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen, thawed and drained)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the lasagna roll-ups.
- Cook Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, combine the pureed roasted butternut squash, ricotta, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, beaten egg, minced garlic, dried thyme, ground nutmeg, spinach, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a smooth, well-blended filling.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Assemble Roll-Ups: Lay each lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the squash and cheese mixture onto each noodle and carefully roll it up tightly.
- Arrange in Dish: Place each rolled noodle seam-side down in the baking dish on top of the marinara layer.
- Add Remaining Sauce: Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the top of the rolled noodles.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, allowing the filling to set and flavors to meld.
- Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the top is slightly browned for a beautiful finish.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve hot. Enjoy your cozy butternut squash lasagna roll-ups!
Notes
- You can roast your own butternut squash by peeling, dicing, tossing with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roasting at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes until tender.
- Spinach can be fresh or frozen; if using frozen, make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before mixing.
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the filling or sauce.
- To make this dish vegan, substitute ricotta and cheeses with plant-based alternatives and omit the egg.
- Lasagna noodles can be substituted with gluten-free noodles if needed for dietary restrictions.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
