Butternut squash lasagna is a culinary hug that warms the heart and delights the senses. Imagine layers of tender pasta interspersed with creamy ricotta, savory butternut squash, and a sprinkle of crisp sage. The aroma wafts through the air, making your kitchen feel like a cozy Italian trattoria on a Sunday afternoon. This dish not only pleases the palate but also brings back fond memories of family gatherings where laughter and love are served alongside each enticing bite.
As you prepare this luscious dish, you will find yourself eagerly anticipating the moment when it emerges from the oven, bubbling and golden brown. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a festive holiday feast, butternut squash lasagna is perfect for any occasion. It promises warmth, comfort, and an unforgettable flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This butternut squash lasagna is easy to prepare and great for weeknight dinners
- Its rich flavors combine sweet and savory notes in every bite
- The vibrant colors make it visually stunning, perfect for impressing guests
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on your dietary needs or preferences
Sharing this recipe with friends led to an unforgettable dinner party where everyone raved about the flavors.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Lasagna Noodles: Use either fresh or dried noodles; fresh offers a delightful texture while dried is more convenient.
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Butternut Squash: Choose firm, heavy squash; it should feel solid and have smooth skin for best results.
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Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creaminess; it’s the secret to that luxurious filling.
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Shredded Mozzarella: Pick good-quality mozzarella for melting; it adds stringy goodness that pulls everyone in.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan enhances flavor; skip pre-grated versions for better taste.
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Sage Leaves: Fresh sage elevates the dish with its earthy aroma; crushed dried sage can work in a pinch.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic infuses wonderful flavor into layers; avoiding powdered garlic makes all the difference.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking and drizzling; it adds richness and depth to every layer.
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Salt & Pepper: Always season generously; these staples bring out all the other flavors beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Oven and Noodles: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil salted water in a large pot and cook lasagna noodles until al dente. Drain them carefully so they don’t stick together.
Sauté the Butternut Squash Mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Toss in chopped butternut squash and minced garlic until tender—about 7-10 minutes—releasing heavenly aromas that fill your kitchen.
Create the Ricotta Layer: In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with salt, pepper, and half of the sage leaves. Stir until combined—this creamy blend should be light and fluffy.
Assemble the Lasagna Layers: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of butternut squash mixture at the bottom followed by noodles. Alternate layers of ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese, and remaining squash until you reach the top.
Add Final Touches Before Baking: Finish with remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle Parmesan on top. Drizzle lightly with olive oil for extra golden browning during baking—because who doesn’t love that cheesy crust?
Bake Your Masterpiece!: Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil (shiny side down) to prevent sticking. Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes before removing foil to bake an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown and bubbling joyfully.
This butternut squash lasagna is not just food—it’s an experience brimming with flavors that dance together in perfect harmony. Each bite transports you to cozy kitchens filled with laughter where great meals are made with love. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- Butternut squash lasagna is not just a dish; it’s a warm hug on a chilly evening
- The combination of creamy layers and savory squash creates a delightful flavor explosion, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with butternut squash lasagna, start by roasting the squash first. While it cools, prepare your cheese mixture and sauce for seamless assembly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add spinach or kale for extra nutrition, or swap ricotta for cottage cheese if you want a lighter touch. Season with herbs like sage or thyme to enhance flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover butternut squash lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your butternut squash is cut into even pieces for uniform cooking
- Layering the sauce and cheese evenly prevents dryness and enhances flavor
- Let the dish sit before slicing; this helps maintain its shape beautifully
There’s nothing quite like serving butternut squash lasagna at family dinners. I still remember my cousin’s face lighting up after his first bite—his delighted “Who knew veggies could taste this good?” made the effort worthwhile.
FAQ
Can I use frozen butternut squash for this recipe?
Yes, frozen butternut squash works well, but be sure to drain excess moisture before using.
How long does it take to bake butternut squash lasagna?
Bake at 375°F for about 45 minutes, or until golden and bubbly on top.
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble it a day ahead and refrigerate before baking for easier meal prep.
Butternut Squash Lasagna
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Butternut squash lasagna is a warm and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of roasted squash, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella. Perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings, this recipe invites you to indulge in layers of pasta interspersed with savory goodness. Each bite is a delightful experience that promises to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups butternut squash, diced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 fresh sage leaves, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil salted water in a large pot and cook lasagna noodles until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add butternut squash and garlic; sauté until tender (7-10 minutes).
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with salt, pepper, and half the sage leaves until fluffy.
- In a baking dish, layer the butternut squash mixture, followed by noodles, ricotta mixture, mozzarella cheese, and remaining squash until all ingredients are used.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese; drizzle lightly with olive oil.
- Cover with foil (shiny side down) and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
