Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta are a delightful twist on classic lasagna, perfect for cozy dinners and festive gatherings. With their vibrant colors and comforting flavors, these roll-ups not only look stunning but also celebrate the essence of fall. The creamy ricotta paired with the sweetness of butternut squash makes them an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Seasonal Flavors: Embrace the taste of fall with the sweet and nutty flavors of butternut squash.
• Beautiful Presentation: These roll-ups make an impressive dish that’s sure to wow your guests.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and ingredients, this recipe is approachable for cooks of all levels.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for dinner parties or weeknight meals, these roll-ups fit various dining occasions.
• Comforting Dish: Creamy ricotta and mozzarella create a rich texture that warms the soul.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather a few essential tools before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking dish (9×13” or 8×14”)
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking lasagna noodles evenly without sticking.
• Mixing bowl: Helps in easily combining ingredients for the filling.
• Whisk: Aids in creating a smooth bécchicken hamel sauce without lumps.
• Baking dish: Provides ample space to arrange the lasagna roll ups beautifully.

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Ingredients

Here’s what you need to create these delicious Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta:

• 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)
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2-3 cups milk (warm; for thicker bécchicken hamel, 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)
• 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 well and lay flat on a rimmed baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with oil when overlapping to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. 1 cup mashed 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 half cup of ricotta cheese.

Step 3: Make the Bécchicken Hamel Sauce

Melt:
1. 4 Tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat in a saucepan.
Once melted, add:
2. 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
Whisk until light golden brown, about three minutes—avoid browning too much. Quickly whisk in:
3. 2–3 cups warm milk
Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a simmer while continuing to whisk for another three minutes. Reduce heat to low and add:
4. Sage leaves
5. Smashed garlic cloves

Cook until thickened and smooth, about eight to ten minutes. Stir in:
6. ¼ cup grated Parmesan
7. Grated nutmeg
8. Cayenne pepper
9. Kosher salt
10. Freshly cracked black pepper

Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna Roll Ups

Preheat your oven to375°F (190°C). Lay out as many lasagna noodles as will fit on your cutting board. Place about:
1. 2–3 Tbsp of filling on each noodle
Spread it into a thin layer across the noodle using a spatula or spoon, then sprinkle each with approximately:
2. 1–2 Tbsp shredded mozzarella

Roll each noodle from bottom to top gently and set aside while repeating this process with remaining noodles.

Step5: Bake the Lasagna Roll Ups

Discard fresh sage leaves and smashed garlic cloves if used earlier, then pour half of the bécchicken hamel sauce evenly over the bottom of your baking dish. Place roll ups in the pan—they can lie flat or stand up based on your presentation preference! Drizzle remaining sauce on top and sprinkle any leftover mozzarella cheese over it all.

Bake for about thirty minutes or until sauce bubbles and edges crisp slightly.

Step6: Garnish and Serve!

Sprinkle grated Parmesan and black pepper over top if desired, garnish with sage leaves, and enjoy!

Optional Fried Sage Leaves

If you want crispy sage leaves as garnish, heat one inch of neutral oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat until hot—add sage leaves a few at a time and cook for twenty to thirty seconds while flipping once or twice until bubbling subsides—remove with slotted spoon onto paper towel and season lightly with Kosher salt before serving.

Enjoy making these Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta—perfectly comforting!

How to Serve Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups are not just a delight to eat, but they also look stunning on any table. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with a Fresh Green Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the lasagna roll ups.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy bécchicken hamel sauce. Toast it until golden brown for the best texture.

Top with Additional Cheese

• For cheese lovers, consider sprinkling more mozzarella or Parmesan on top before serving. This adds an extra layer of flavor and richness.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh sage leaves or chopped parsley can brighten up the dish visually and enhance its earthy flavors.

Offer a Side of Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots complement the sweetness of the butternut squash and add color to your plate.

How to Perfect Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

Achieving perfection in these lasagna roll ups is all about technique and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to help you get it just right.

• Use fresh butternut squash – Opting for freshly roasted squash instead of canned can elevate the flavor and texture of your filling.

• Don’t overcook the noodles – Cooking your lasagna noodles just until al dente will prevent them from becoming mushy when baked.

• Adjust seasoning as needed – Taste your filling and sauce; don’t hesitate to adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.

• Layer thoughtfully – Make sure to spread the filling evenly on each noodle to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the roll ups to sit for a few minutes after baking helps them set, making them easier to slice and serve.

Best Side Dishes for Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

To create a well-rounded meal, consider these side dishes that pair wonderfully with Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups.

1. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy dressing balances out the richness of the roll ups.

2. Steamed Broccoli – Steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and a nutritious touch. Drizzle with lemon juice for extra zest.

3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized provide a sweet contrast that complements the dish’s flavors.

4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy garlic mashed potatoes offer comfort and richness that pairs well with the savory lasagna roll ups.

5. Antipasto Platter – An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and roasted peppers makes for a colorful appetizer before diving into the main course.

6. Bruschetta – Toasted baguette slices topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil add a fresh burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully.

7. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, bell peppers, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing side option.

8. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice can be baked alongside your lasagna roll ups for an additional hearty option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using Overcooked Noodles: Ensure you cook the lasagna noodles until al dente. Overcooked noodles can lead to a mushy texture that doesn’t hold up during assembly.

• Not Measuring Ingredients: Be precise when measuring ingredients like ricotta and butternut squash. Too much or too little can affect flavor and consistency.

• Skipping the Béchamel Sauce: The béchamel sauce adds creaminess and depth to your dish. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall flavor of the roll ups.

• Filling Too Much: Avoid overfilling each noodle. Too much filling can cause them to burst during baking, making a mess in your dish.

• Neglecting Seasoning: Proper seasoning is key! Don’t forget salt and pepper in both the filling and béchamel sauce for balanced flavors.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover roll ups in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

• You can freeze the roll ups before or after baking.
• Use freezer-safe containers or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil.
• They will keep well for 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for about 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta:

Can I use gluten-free noodles?

Yes! Gluten-free lasagna noodles work perfectly for this recipe. Just follow package directions for cooking times.

How do I customize Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta?

You can add other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the filling or replace ricotta with cottage cheese for a different flavor profile.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the baking stage, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking.

What should I serve with Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta?

A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs well with these roll ups, creating a lovely meal balance.

Final Thoughts

These Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll Ups with Ricotta are not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor that captures the essence of fall. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients according to your preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love!