Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta are a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this dish showcases beautiful layers of pasta filled with creamy butternut squash and ricotta. Each bite is rich, savory, and comforting, making it a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal Flavor: The combination of butternut squash and sage evokes the essence of autumn.
• Visual Appeal: Rolled up like little pasta presents, these roll-ups look gorgeous on any table.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can create a gourmet dish without stress.
• Versatile for Occasions: Perfect for weeknight meals or special gatherings.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A wholesome option that everyone at the table can enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

To create these Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta, you will need a few essential tools to help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Saucepan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cooking spray or oil
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: This is where you’ll assemble your roll-ups, ensuring even cooking and great presentation.
• Saucepan: A sturdy saucepan is crucial for making the béchamel sauce smoothly without clumps.
• Mixing bowl: Use a large mixing bowl to combine ingredients thoroughly for the filling.
• Whisk: A good whisk helps blend your béchamel without lumps, resulting in a creamy texture.

Ingredients

For the Lasagna Roll Ups

• 1 package lasagna noodles (can use gluten-free – should only need 15-16 noodles, but many will break apart during cooking)
• 1 cup mashed butternut squash (or a can of pumpkin purée)
• 1¼ cup ricotta, (divided)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan (plus more for serving)
• 1 large egg
• 2 Tbsp finely chopped sage (plus more for serving, either chopped or whole small leaves)
• 1 tsp Kosher salt
• ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)

For the Béchamel Sauce

• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2-3 cups milk (warm; for thicker béchamel, use 2 cups; for looser sauce, use 3 cups)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan
• ⅛ tsp grated nutmeg
• Pinch of cayenne pepper
• ½ tsp Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 4 large sage leaves
• 2 garlic cloves (smashed)

For Garnish

• A handful of fresh sage leaves
• Neutral oil

How to Make Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain them and lay flat on a rimmed baking sheet. Lightly spray them with cooking spray or drizzle with a little oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. 1 cup butternut squash purée
2. ¾ cup ricotta
3. ½ cup grated Parm
4. 1 egg
5. 2 Tbsp chopped sage
6. 1 tsp Kosher salt
7. ¼ tsp black pepper

Stir until well mixed. If the mixture is too thick to spread easily, add in the remaining ½ cup ricotta cheese.

Step 3: Make the Béchamel Sauce

Melt 4 Tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat in a saucepan. When melted:
1. Add 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour.
2. Whisk until the mixture is a light golden brown (about 3 minutes).
3. Quickly whisk in 2–3 cups of warm milk, increasing heat to medium-high.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook while whisking for about another 3 minutes.
5. Reduce heat to low and add sage leaves and smashed garlic cloves; cook until thickened and smooth (about 8–10 minutes).

Stir in:
– ¼ cup grated Parm,
– ⅛ tsp grated nutmeg,
– Pinch of cayenne,
– ½ tsp Kosher salt,

Add freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna Roll Ups

Preheat your oven to 375F. Lay out as many lasagna noodles as will fit on your cutting board. Place about 2–3 Tbsp of filling on each noodle and spread it into an even layer using a spatula or spoon. Sprinkle about 1–2 Tbsp shredded mozzarella on each filled noodle before rolling from bottom to top.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna Roll Ups

Discard any fresh sage leaves and smashed garlic cloves if used earlier. Pour half of the béchamel sauce evenly across the bottom of a baking dish (9×13” rectangular or 8×14” oval). Place rolled-up noodles in the pan—either lying flat or standing upright based on your preference! Drizzle remaining béchamel sauce over them and sprinkle any remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

Bake for around 30 minutes, or until bubbling with crisped edges.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with additional grated Parm and black pepper if desired, then garnish with fresh sage leaves before serving!

Step 7: Optional Fried Sage Leaves

For crispy fried sage leaves:
1. Heat about an inch of neutral oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sage leaves in batches and cook each for about 20–30 seconds, flipping once or twice until bubbles subside.
3. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels; season lightly with Kosher salt before serving.

Enjoy these delicious Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta!

How to Serve Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups are as delightful to serve as they are to eat! Their vibrant colors and rich flavors make them a centerpiece for any table. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with a Fresh Green Salad

• A mixed greens salad with vinaigrette brightens the dish and adds a refreshing crunch.

Drizzle with Extra Bécchicken Hamel

• For extra creaminess, drizzle more bécchicken hamel on top right before serving.

Sprinkle Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each serving with fresh sage leaves or chopped parsley for an aromatic finish.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.

Add a Side of Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots provide an earthy balance to the rich flavors of the roll ups.

Complement with a Light White Wine

• If desired, pair with a non-alcoholic white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing drink option.

How to Perfect Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

To achieve the best results when making Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ricotta and seasonal butternut squash will enhance flavor and texture in your dish.

• Adjust Sauce Consistency: Depending on your preference, you can make the bécchicken hamel thicker or looser by altering the milk amount.

• Don’t Overfill Noodles: Spread the filling evenly but sparingly to prevent spills during rolling and baking.

• Preheat Your Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking for even cooking and optimal browning.

• Let Them Rest: Allow the roll ups to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps them set and makes serving easier.

• Experiment with Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix different cheeses like goat cheese or fontina for unique flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

Completing your meal is easy with these delicious side dishes that pair beautifully with Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread offers crunchy goodness that complements the creamy lasagna.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing create a satisfying contrast to the soft pasta rolls.

3. Steamed Broccoli
   Steamed broccoli provides essential nutrients and adds a pop of color to your plate.

4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Sweet potatoes roasted in olive oil bring out their natural sweetness and pair well with savory flavors.

5. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly grilled asparagus drizzled with lemon juice offers a fresh taste that balances richness.

6. Quinoa Salad
   A quinoa salad mixed with herbs, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber adds protein and freshness to your meal.

7. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers stuffed with grains and vegetables add variety while being visually appealing.

8. Minestrone Soup
   A warm bowl of minestrone soup serves as a hearty starter that complements the lasagna roll ups perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the al dente noodles: Cooking the lasagna noodles until al dente is crucial. Overcooked noodles can break and make rolling difficult.
• Not draining properly: Ensure you drain the noodles well before assembling. Excess water can make your roll ups soggy.
• Ignoring seasoning: Be generous with salt and pepper in the filling and sauce. Under-seasoned dishes can taste bland.
• Rushing assembly: Take your time while filling and rolling the noodles. A rushed process can lead to messy roll ups that don’t hold together.
• Forgetting to preheat the oven: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. Skipping this step can result in unevenly baked roll ups.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor.

Freezing Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

• Freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• They can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a roll up on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to create steam, covering until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to prepare butternut squash for this recipe?

The best way is to roast or steam it until tender before mashing. This enhances its sweetness and flavor for the filling.

Can I use other types of cheese in Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cottage cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when my lasagna roll ups are done baking?

Your roll ups are done when the sauce is bubbling and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.

Can I make these lasagna roll ups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

What can I serve with my Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with these delicious roll ups!

Final Thoughts

These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors of fall. Their creamy texture and melty cheese make them irresistible. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables for an extra twist!