Creamy Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups: A Hearty, Comforting Twist on Classic Lasagna
Creamy Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups combine the richness of butternut squash with the comforting layers of traditional lasagna. These roll-ups are a perfect alternative to the classic lasagna and offer a lighter yet still creamy dish that will leave you craving more. The sweetness of the butternut squash paired with creamy ricotta and mozzarella makes this dish irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a family meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like vitamin A and fiber, making this dish a nutritious option for those seeking a cozy meal that’s both indulgent and healthy. Let’s dive into the recipe and all the tips you need to make this dish a success.
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Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
Ingredients
To make Creamy Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups, you’ll need:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 12 lasagna noodles (no-boil noodles work too)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups spinach, chopped (optional for added greens)
- 1 1/2 cups béchamel sauce (or store-bought white sauce)
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Butternut Squash
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread it out on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is fork-tender and caramelized. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. - Cook the Lasagna Noodles
While the squash roasts, cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions. If you’re using no-boil noodles, skip this step. Drain the cooked noodles and set them aside on a sheet of parchment paper to prevent sticking. - Prepare the Squash Filling
In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Once the butternut squash is ready, mash it slightly with a fork and add it to the skillet. Stir in the vegetable broth, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, dried basil, and nutmeg. Mix everything together until smooth, creating a creamy mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. - Assemble the Roll-Ups
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of béchamel sauce or white sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Lay one cooked lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous amount of the creamy butternut squash mixture on top of the noodle, then carefully roll it up. Place the roll-up seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this step for all noodles. - Top and Bake
Once all the roll-ups are in the dish, spread the remaining béchamel sauce over the top of the roll-ups. Sprinkle with additional mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown. - Serve and Enjoy
Let the lasagna roll-ups cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped basil if desired and serve with a side salad or some crusty bread.
Advanced Techniques
Making Homemade Béchamel Sauce
If you prefer to make your own béchamel sauce (white sauce), it’s simple to prepare! In a saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour and cook for about 1 minute, ensuring it’s smooth. Slowly whisk in 2 cups of milk, and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg to taste. This adds a deliciously rich layer to your roll-ups.
Enhancing the Flavor
To enhance the depth of flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper to the squash filling. This gives the dish a slight smoky kick without overpowering the sweetness of the butternut squash.
Using Spinach
For an added layer of nutrition and color, you can stir in some fresh spinach into the butternut squash filling. Simply sauté the spinach in a bit of olive oil until wilted, then mix it into the filling before rolling the lasagna noodles.
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Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
Storage
Store any leftover Creamy Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to refrigerate the roll-ups within 2 hours of cooking to preserve their freshness.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the roll-ups in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen roll-ups to an airtight freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat from frozen by baking at 375°F (190°C) for 40-45 minutes.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes. If reheating individual roll-ups, use the microwave for a quicker option, heating in 1-minute intervals until warm throughout.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
Gluten-Free
To make Creamy Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups gluten-free, simply swap out regular lasagna noodles for gluten-free lasagna noodles. Ensure that the béchamel sauce is made with gluten-free flour (or use cornstarch as a thickening agent instead of flour).
Vegan
To make this dish vegan, replace the ricotta cheese with a vegan ricotta alternative or blend silken tofu with nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and lemon juice. Use vegan mozzarella and Parmesan cheese substitutes, and make sure the béchamel sauce is dairy-free, using plant-based milk and butter.
Low-Carb/Keto
For a low-carb or keto version, you can replace the lasagna noodles with thin slices of zucchini or eggplant. The texture will be slightly different, but it still makes for a delicious, low-carb alternative.
FAQs About The Recipe
Q: Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare and assemble the roll-ups up to a day ahead. Simply cover them with foil and store in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve.
Q: Can I use a different squash?
A: Yes! You can substitute butternut squash with other types of squash, such as acorn squash or pumpkin. These varieties will provide a slightly different flavor but still work wonderfully in this dish.
Q: Can I use regular lasagna noodles instead of no-boil noodles?
A: Absolutely! If you’re using regular noodles, just make sure to cook them according to the package directions before assembling the roll-ups.
Q: Is this dish good for meal prep?
A: Yes! These roll-ups are great for meal prep. You can store them in individual portions, and they will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to a month.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Creamy Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups are a delicious and creative twist on the traditional lasagna, combining the sweet and earthy flavor of butternut squash with creamy cheese and savory herbs. These roll-ups are perfect for those who want a hearty, comforting meal that’s a bit lighter than traditional lasagna.
Whether you’re cooking for a family, prepping for the week ahead, or serving guests, this dish will quickly become a favorite. It’s versatile, satisfying, and full of flavor. Try it out today and enjoy the cozy, rich flavors of fall in every bite.