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. Bursting with creamy ricotta, sweet butternut squash, and aromatic sage, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings. Its beautiful presentation and rich taste will impress your guests while being easy enough for a weeknight meal. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this comforting recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this delicious dish.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of butternut squash and ricotta creates a creamy, sweet filling that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Versatile Presentation: Serve them flat or standing; these roll-ups look stunning on any table.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for quick dinners later in the week.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday feast, these roll-ups are sure to be a hit.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Baking dish (9×13” or 8×14”)
• Cooking spray or brush
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: A must-have for combining all filling ingredients evenly without spills.
• Saucepan: Ideal for making the bécchicken hamel sauce to achieve that creamy texture.
• Baking dish: The right size ensures even cooking and makes serving easier.

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 – use 2 cups for thicker sauce, 3 cups for looser sauce)
• 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 Garnishing

• 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. Spray lightly 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 Parmesan,
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, add 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 and whisk until light golden brown (about 3 minutes).
2. Quickly whisk in 2–3 cups of warm milk.
3. Increase heat to medium-high; bring to a simmer and cook while whisking for another 3 minutes.
4. Reduce heat to low; add sage leaves and smashed garlic cloves, cooking until thick and smooth (about 8–10 minutes).
5. Stir in remaining ingredients:
– ¼ cup grated Parmesan,
– ⅛ tsp grated nutmeg,
– pinch of cayenne,
– Kosher salt,
– freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna Roll Ups

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lay out as many lasagna noodles as will fit on your cutting board:
1. Place about 2–3 Tbsp of filling on each noodle.
2. Spread into a thin layer using a spatula or spoon.
3. Sprinkle each with about 1–2 Tbsp shredded mozzarella.
4. Roll from bottom to top, set aside gently, then repeat with remaining noodles.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna Roll Ups

Pour half of the bécchicken hamel sauce into the bottom of your baking dish:
1. Place roll ups in pan—flat or standing based on preference.
2. Drizzle remaining sauce over the top.
3. Sprinkle any remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
4. Bake for about 30 minutes until bubbling and edges are crisped.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve!

Sprinkle with additional grated Parmesan and black pepper if desired; garnish with fresh sage leaves before serving!

Step 7: Optional Fried Sage Leaves

For crispy sage leaves, heat neutral oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat:
1. When hot, add sage leaves in batches.
2. Cook for about 20–30 seconds until bubbles subside.
3. Remove with a slotted spoon; drain on paper towels and season lightly with Kosher salt before serving alongside your roll-ups!

How to Serve Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta can be served in a variety of delightful ways. Whether it’s a cozy dinner for family or a gathering with friends, these roll-ups are sure to impress.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh sage leaves: Add whole or chopped sage leaves on top for an aromatic touch.
• Chopped parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley to enhance color and freshness.

Pair with a Side Salad

• Mixed greens: Serve alongside a simple mixed green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing crunch.
• Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the creamy flavors of the lasagna roll-ups.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce.
• Focaccia: Soft focaccia adds a nice texture contrast and can be served plain or herb-infused.

Offer Extra Sauce

• Béchamel sauce: Serve additional béchamel sauce on the side for those who want an extra creamy experience.
• Marinara sauce: A rich marinara is another excellent option to drizzle over the roll-ups.

How to Perfect Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

To ensure your Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ricotta and butternut squash will provide better flavor and texture compared to pre-packaged options.
• Cook noodles al dente: This prevents your lasagna noodles from becoming too soft during baking, helping them hold their shape.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your filling before assembling; you may want to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
• Let it rest before serving: Allow the baked roll-ups to sit for about 5-10 minutes before cutting. This helps them set and makes serving easier.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try adding different types of cheese like fontina or provolone for added flavor depth.
• Make ahead of time: Prepare these roll-ups in advance and refrigerate before baking. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

Best Side Dishes for Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

Complement your delicious Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with these tasty side dishes. Each pairing adds balance and enhances your meal.

1. Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil, garlic, and salt, then roast until crispy for a flavorful veggie side.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice provides brightness that pairs beautifully with the richness of the lasagna.
3. Herbed Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs offers a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta dish.
4. Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots seasoned with thyme create an earthy balance that complements the flavors of butternut squash.
5. Caprese Salad: Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil together for a refreshing Italian-inspired salad that works well alongside this dish.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles serve as a low-carb option that still delivers on flavor without overwhelming your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta, avoiding common mistakes will help ensure delicious results. Here are some errors to watch out for:

• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking lasagna noodles too long can cause them to break and lose their shape. Aim for al dente according to package instructions for best results.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the filling and sauce means missing out on flavor. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go for a balanced dish.
• Not using enough filling: Using too little filling can lead to dry roll ups. Spread a generous amount of filling evenly across each noodle for a rich taste.
• Ignoring the sauce consistency: If your béchamel sauce is too thin or too thick, it may not coat the roll ups properly. Adjust milk amounts gradually until you reach your desired texture.
• Rushing the baking time: Baking the roll ups for too short a time can prevent them from heating through fully. Ensure they are bubbly and golden before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm, covering to retain moisture.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta?

Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta are pasta rolls filled with a savory mixture of butternut squash, ricotta cheese, and herbs, baked in a creamy sauce.

Can I make Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them up to the baking stage and refrigerate or freeze before cooking. Just add extra baking time if frozen.

How do I customize my Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups?

Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or swap ricotta for cottage cheese or a dairy-free alternative.

Are there any substitutes for ricotta cheese?

Yes! Cottage cheese or blended tofu can serve as great alternatives if you’re looking for different textures or dietary options.

What side dishes pair well with these roll ups?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread complements these flavorful roll ups nicely without overwhelming the palate.

Final Thoughts

These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor that celebrates fall. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on personal preference while still delivering a hearty meal. Try this recipe today and enjoy its comforting warmth!