As I wandered through the local farmer’s market last month, the vibrant orange of butternut squash caught my eye, instantly transporting me to crisp autumn evenings. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups—a cozy vegetarian delight that marvelously showcases the season’s bounty. These roll-ups, filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta and mashed squash, are blanketed in a silky béchamel sauce that brings a touch of warmth to any gathering. Not only are they freezer-friendly and perfect for meal prep, but they also serve as a fantastic centerpiece for holiday dinners. With every bite, they promise to melt away the worry of fast food and bring the comfort of homemade goodness back to your table. Ready to dive into this comforting dish?
Why are these roll-ups a must-try?
Comforting Flavors: Each bite offers a warm hug of seasonal taste, combining roasted butternut squash and creamy ricotta.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in different veggies or even Italian sausage for a meaty treat, ensuring everyone enjoys them!
Freezer-Friendly: Prep them ahead of time and freeze, making dinner a breeze on busy nights.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, these roll-ups are visually stunning and delicious, making them the star of any table.
Easy to Make: Even beginner chefs can master this dish with straightforward steps, so you can impress friends and family without stressing!
Elevate your meals with these delightful Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups that embody the essence of comfort food and showcase fall flavors in every delightful layer!
Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups Ingredients
For the Roll-Ups
• Lasagna noodles – Structure the dish; consider using gluten-free noodles to accommodate dietary needs.
• Mashed butternut squash – Adds natural sweetness and creaminess; canned pumpkin purée makes a suitable substitute.
• Ricotta cheese – Provides creaminess; you can adjust the filling’s thickness with additional ricotta if needed.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – Enhances flavor depth; sprinkle more on top for extra richness.
• Large egg – Helps bind the filling together for a perfect texture.
• Finely chopped sage – Offers aromatic herbal notes; fresh sage is preferred, but dried works as well.
• Kosher salt & Black pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to taste for balanced flavors.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – Contributes a melty topping; use some in the filling for added creaminess.
For the Béchamel Sauce
• Unsalted butter – Forms the base for the béchamel; adds a rich taste.
• All-purpose flour – Thickens the béchamel for a creamy texture; feel free to use gluten-free flour if necessary.
• Milk (warm) – Creates the béchamel sauce; warm milk is key for smooth blending.
• Nutmeg & Cayenne pepper – Enhance the flavor of the béchamel; adjust the spices to your liking.
• Fresh sage leaves & Garlic – Infuse delicious flavor into the sauce; discard them after cooking for a smooth finish.
For Garnish (Optional)
• Neutral oil – Use for frying crispy sage leaves to add a crunchy garnish.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups
Step 1: Cook Lasagna Noodles
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water over medium heat. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the lasagna noodles, cooking them according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 8–10 minutes). Drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or baking sheet to cool, preventing them from sticking together as you prepare the filling for your Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups.
Step 2: Prepare Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed butternut squash, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, large egg, finely chopped sage, kosher salt, and black pepper. Use a fork or spatula to mix these ingredients until the filling is smooth and well-blended. If you find the mixture too thick, adjust the texture with a bit more ricotta cheese. This creamy filling is essential for your Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups.
Step 3: Make Béchamel Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, cooking until golden brown and bubbling, about 2 minutes. Gradually pour in warm milk while whisking to prevent lumps, cooking until the sauce thickens, approximately 5–7 minutes. Add in sage leaves and garlic for flavor, then stir in nutmeg and cayenne pepper. Remove from heat once thickened and fragrant.
Step 4: Assemble Roll-Ups
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a clean workspace, take a cooled lasagna noodle and spread a generous amount of the butternut squash filling on top, leaving about an inch at the bottom. Sprinkle a little mozzarella cheese over the filling, then gently roll up the noodle from the top down. Place the rolled-up noodle seam-side down in a greased baking dish, continuing until all noodles and filling are used.
Step 5: Bake
Once all the Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups are in the baking dish, pour the prepared béchamel sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese generously to create a golden, bubbly crust. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes to allow the top to brown and become irresistibly melty.
Step 6: Serve & Garnish
After baking, let the roll-ups cool for a few minutes to set. As an optional garnish, consider frying some fresh sage leaves in a little neutral oil until crispy. Top your delicious Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with additional cheese and crispy sage leaves before serving warm. This dish is sure to be a hit at your fall feasts!
What to Serve with Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups?
Elevate your autumn gatherings by pairing these vibrant roll-ups with flavorful sides that beautifully complement their creamy goodness.
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Crispy Garlic Bread: This buttery, toasted delight pairs wonderfully, offering a crunchy contrast that perfectly balances the creamy lasagna.
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Mixed Green Salad: Light and refreshing, a salad filled with peppery arugula and tangy vinaigrette adds freshness that cuts through the richness.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These savory, caramelized sprouts provide a delightful earthy flavor, making them a hearty match for the sweet butternut squash.
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Sage and Brown Butter Pasta: For those who can’t resist more pasta, a light dish of sage-infused brown butter noodles can enhance the comforting fall flavors.
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Warm Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with a warm apple crisp; its cinnamon-spiced fruit contrasts beautifully with the savory roll-ups.
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Chardonnay: This creamy white wine, with notes of butter and oak, complements the richness of the béchamel sauce and elevates your dining experience.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: For a cozy drink pairing, a warm pumpkin spice latte enhances those fall flavors, wrapping up your meal with seasonal charm.
Tips for the Best Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups
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Noodle Care: Avoid overcooking your lasagna noodles. They should be al dente to prevent breakage during assembly, ensuring perfect Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups.
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Smooth Filling: Achieve a creamy filling by thoroughly mixing butternut squash and ricotta. If too thick, simply add a bit more ricotta for the perfect texture.
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Flavor Boost: Enhance your béchamel by using fresh garlic and sage. Remember to remove them before topping your roll-ups for a smoother sauce experience!
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Assembly Line: Lay noodles flat and fill evenly to avoid spills. Rolling tightly ensures that every slice showcases delicious layers of flavor in your roll-ups.
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Freeze for Later: Assemble and freeze uncooked roll-ups for quick meals. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven directly from the freezer, but extend the baking time as needed.
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Crispy Sage Garnish: Fry fresh sage leaves in neutral oil for a delightful crispy garnish—but keep a close eye to prevent burning!
Make Ahead Options
These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the roll-ups and refrigerate them for up to 2 days before baking, ensuring that you can enjoy a homemade meal even on your busiest nights. To do this, simply prepare the filling, spread it over cooked noodles, and roll them up tightly. Cover the baking dish securely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, just pop the dish into a preheated oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for a delicious, cozy meal that tastes just as fresh! If you want to extend the storage time, freeze the assembled roll-ups for up to 3 months and bake them directly from frozen, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your own creative touch on this cozy recipe—delight your taste buds with these exciting alternatives!
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Savory Swaps: Get adventurous by substituting butternut squash with acorn squash or sweet potato for a different flavor profile.
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Meaty Delight: For non-vegetarians, add cooked Italian sausage to the filling; it brings a hearty spin that’s simply irresistible.
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Lighten Up: Replace the milk in the béchamel with half-and-half or whole milk to lighten the sauce while maintaining creaminess.
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Spice It Up: Incorporate a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for an added layer of warmth and comfort.
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Cheese Lovers: Try mixing in some goat cheese or feta to the ricotta for a tangy twist that elevates the flavor even further.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the filling or béchamel for a fragrant lift.
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Heat it Up: For those who love a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha can add a pleasant kick.
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Freezer-Friendly Options: If you plan to freeze, use gluten-free noodles and ensure proper assembly for easy future dinners; just pop into the oven directly from the freezer!
No matter how you choose to customize, you’ll find that these Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups pair beautifully with a light side salad or a slice of crusty bread—perfect for soaking up that dreamy béchamel sauce. Happy cooking!
How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through for a comforting meal anytime.
Freezer: Assemble your roll-ups before freezing. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, storing for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding additional cooking time as necessary.
Reheating: To maintain texture, reheat roll-ups in the oven rather than the microwave. Cover with foil to prevent over-browning while warming through.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare your Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups up to 2 days in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge before baking for hassle-free meal prep.
Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups Recipe FAQs
How do I select the perfect butternut squash?
Absolutely! Look for a heavy squash with a smooth, beige skin. It should feel firm and have a long neck. Avoid any with dark spots or soft spots, as these indicate overripeness.
How should I store my Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups?
Very good question! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, they can be frozen for up to 3 months—just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
What’s the best way to freeze Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups?
Make sure to assemble the roll-ups but do not bake them. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer—just add about 15-20 minutes to the baking time and cover with foil to avoid over-browning.
I’m worried about overcooking the lasagna noodles. How can I avoid that?
Great concern! To keep your noodles from being overcooked, boil them until they’re just al dente, usually 8 to 10 minutes. Rinse them in cold water after draining to stop the cooking process and lay them flat to cool. This makes assembly a breeze and prevents breakage.
Can I prepare Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep them up to 2 days in advance. Simply cover the assembled roll-ups tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and follow your baking instructions!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Certainly! If you’re serving those with dairy allergies, consider using dairy-free ricotta and vegan cheese for a delicious alternative. If gluten is a concern, opt for gluten-free lasagna noodles. Always ensure the butternut squash is fresh and check for any ingredient allergies when baking for friends and family.
Comforting Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups for Fall Feasts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook lasagna noodles in boiling salted water until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and lay flat to cool.
- Prepare filling by mixing mashed butternut squash, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, sage, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Make béchamel sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, and gradually adding warm milk. Stir in sage and garlic, then nutmeg and cayenne.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Assemble roll-ups with filling and sprinkle mozzarella before rolling, placing seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour béchamel sauce over roll-ups, sprinkle remaining mozzarella, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil for the last 10 minutes.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with crispy sage leaves if desired.
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