These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups are a tasty twist on a classic dish. Filled with creamy ricotta and sweet butternut squash, they’re both comforting and healthy!
I love how these roll ups look fancy but are super easy to make! Perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself. Plus, leftovers taste amazing too! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Use any type of lasagna noodles you have on hand. You can also opt for whole-wheat or gluten-free noodles to fit your diet.
Butternut Squash: Fresh is best, but frozen pre-diced squash works too! If you can’t find butternut squash, try using pumpkin or sweet potato for a different flavor.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess, but you can substitute cottage cheese if you prefer. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based ricotta made from tofu or cashews.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a nice color and flavor. If you don’t have fresh, use thawed frozen spinach—just make sure to drain it well.
Béchamel Sauce: While béchamel adds richness, you can use store-bought Alfredo or even a simple marinara sauce for a twist!
How Do You Make the Perfect Filling for Lasagna Roll Ups?
The filling is key for these roll ups! Start by roasting the butternut squash until it’s tender and caramelized to enhance its sweetness. Mix this warm squash with ricotta, spinach, and seasoning to create a delicious, creamy filling.
- Don’t skip the egg—it helps bind everything together and gives a lovely texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as you go; the filling should be flavorful!
- Make sure not to overfill the noodles. A little goes a long way, helping them roll up nicely.
Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roll Ups:
- 9 lasagna noodles (uncooked)
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried sage or 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cups béchamel sauce (or substitute with Alfredo sauce)
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need approximately 20 minutes for prep and about 30 minutes for baking, giving you a total of about 50 minutes to enjoy these delightful roll ups. They are perfect for a cozy meal or impressing guests at dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when your roll ups go in!
2. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
In a large pot, cook the lasagna noodles in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until they are al dente (slightly firm). Once done, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to cool and prevent sticking together.
3. Roast the Butternut Squash:
Toss your diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it out on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 20 minutes until tender. Alternatively, you can sauté it in a pan until it’s nice and soft.
4. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, add the roasted butternut squash (you can mash it slightly), ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, ½ cup of mozzarella cheese, ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, the egg, garlic powder, and sage. Mix everything together well, and taste it to add salt and pepper as you like!
5. Assemble the Roll Ups:
Spread about 2 cups of béchamel sauce evenly on the bottom of a baking dish. Take a cooked lasagna noodle and spread about ¼ cup of the filling evenly over it from end to end. Carefully roll the noodle up from one side, and place it seam side down in the baking dish. Repeat for the remaining noodles and filling.
6. Add Sauce and Cheese:
Pour the remaining béchamel sauce evenly over the roll ups, then sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
7. Bake the Roll Ups:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and has a lovely golden brown color.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Add fresh sage leaves and thyme sprigs on top to make it look pretty.
9. Enjoy!
Grab a fork and dig into your warm and creamy butternut squash lasagna roll ups! They’re delicious and sure to become a favorite!
This dish is a delightful fusion of creamy ricotta and sweet roasted butternut squash, brought together with the comforting texture of lasagna noodles and a cheesy béchamel sauce, enhanced with aromatic sage. Perfect for those cozy nights in!
Can I Use Other Types of Squash?
Absolutely! While butternut squash is sweet and creamy, you can also use pumpkin or acorn squash as alternatives. Just be sure to cook them until tender!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can assemble the roll ups and refrigerate them (covered with foil) a day ahead of time. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re cooking them straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
What Can I Substitute for the Ricotta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute for ricotta, cottage cheese works well after blending it for a smoother texture. For a dairy-free option, try plant-based ricotta made from blended tofu or nuts!